### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **zânûwn**, represented by `{{H2183}}`, describes **adultery** and **whoredom**. Derived from the verb זָנָה (zânâh), it appears **12 times** across **10 unique verses**. While it can denote literal adultery, its primary scriptural use is figurative, powerfully illustrating the concept of idolatry as spiritual unfaithfulness to God.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H2183}}` is used to condemn both physical and spiritual infidelity. On a literal level, it is the charge brought against Tamar when she is found to be with child [[Genesis 38:24]]. More frequently, it serves as a metaphor for Israel's covenant disloyalty. God commands Hosea to take a wife of **whoredoms** as a sign that "the land hath committed great whoredom, departing from the LORD" [[Hosea 1:2]]. This "spirit of **whoredoms**" is identified as an internal force that causes God's people to err [[Hosea 4:12]]. The term is also applied to gentile nations, such as Nineveh, which is condemned for the "multitude of the **whoredoms** of the wellfavoured harlot" that ensnares other peoples [[Nahum 3:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the theme of unfaithfulness:
* `{{H2181}}` **zânâh** (to commit adultery): As the primitive root of `{{H2183}}`, this verb describes the act of being a **harlot** or going a-whoring, both literally and figuratively. It is the action that defines the state of **zânûwn** [[Hosea 4:12]].
* `{{H8457}}` **taznûwth** (harlotry): A direct synonym, this word is often used interchangeably with `{{H2183}}` to emphasize the depth of Israel's idolatry and spiritual **fornication** [[Ezekiel 23:29]].
* `{{H7307}}` **rûwach** (spirit): The concept of a "spirit of **whoredoms**" highlights that this unfaithfulness is not merely a series of actions but a deep-seated spiritual condition driving the people away from God [[Hosea 5:4]].
* `{{H3785}}` **kesheph** (witchcraft): This word is explicitly linked with **whoredoms** in contexts describing the pervasive sins of figures like Jezebel and nations like Nineveh, showing a connection between idolatry and forbidden magical practices [[2 Kings 9:22]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2183}}` is significant in understanding God's relationship with his people.
* **Covenant Betrayal:** The term frames idolatry not as a mere mistake but as a profound betrayal akin to marital adultery. God's call for Israel to "put away her **whoredoms**" is a plea for the restoration of a broken covenant relationship [[Hosea 2:2]].
* **Spiritual Corruption:** The "spirit of **whoredoms**" signifies an internal corruption that prevents the people from knowing God. It is a spiritual malady that leads them astray from their devotion to the LORD [[Hosea 5:4]].
* **Generational Sin:** The consequences of **whoredoms** extend to the next generation, who are identified as "children of **whoredoms**." This demonstrates the lasting and communal impact of departing from God [[Hosea 2:4]].
* **Divine Judgment:** The acts of **whoredom** are consistently tied to divine judgment. The "nakedness of thy **whoredoms** shall be discovered," leading to shame, punishment, and exile for figures like Aholibah, who represents Judah [[Ezekiel 23:29]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2183}}` is a deeply evocative term that transcends its literal definition of whoredom. It serves as one of the Bible's most potent metaphors for the sin of idolatry, casting it as a violation of the sacred covenant between God and His people. From the personal accusation against Tamar to the national indictment of Israel and Judah, **zânûwn** powerfully conveys the pain, betrayal, and consequences of spiritual unfaithfulness.
TRV