### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chânêph**, represented by `{{H2611}}`, describes a person who is **soiled (i.e. with sin), impious; hypocrite(-ical)**. It appears **13 times** across **13 unique verses** in the Bible. The term denotes a state of moral pollution and godlessness, identifying individuals who are fundamentally corrupt.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H2611}}` is consistently associated with divine judgment and negative consequences. The Lord sends judgment against a **hypocritical** nation [[Isaiah 10:6]], and the hope of the **hypocrite** is destined to perish [[Job 8:13]]. This state of impiety is also shown to have a brief and futile existence, with the joy of the **hypocrite** lasting but for a moment [[Job 20:5]]. Furthermore, the term is used to describe those whose words are destructive, as a **hypocrite** with his mouth destroys his neighbor [[Proverbs 11:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are used alongside `{{H2611}}` to illustrate the nature of this impiety:
* `{{H7563}}` **râshâʻ** (wicked): Defined as a morally wrong or an actively bad person, this word is used in parallel to describe the fleeting triumph of the **wicked** and the momentary joy of the hypocrite [[Job 20:5]].
* `{{H2400}}` **chaṭṭâʼ** (sinner): This term for a criminal or one accounted guilty is directly linked to hypocrisy, where **sinners** in Zion are afraid and fearfulness has surprised the **hypocrites** [[Isaiah 33:14]].
* `{{H7489}}` **râʻaʻ** (evildoer): Describing one who is bad or good for nothing, this term is paired with `{{H2611}}` to indicate a comprehensive corruption, where "every one is an **hypocrite** and an **evildoer**" [[Isaiah 9:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2611}}` is significant, highlighting the gravity of impiety.
* **Exclusion from God's Presence:** A key consequence of being a hypocrite is separation from God. Scripture states that a **hypocrite** shall not come before him [[Job 13:16]].
* **A Condition of the Heart:** The term goes beyond outward actions to identify a deep-seated spiritual problem. The "hypocrites in **heart**" are described as heaping up wrath [[Job 36:13]].
* **Threat to the Community:** The danger of a hypocrite extends to others. A ruler who is a **hypocrite** must not reign, to prevent the people from being ensnared [[Job 34:30]], and the "congregation of **hypocrites**" faces desolation [[Job 15:34]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2611}}` is a potent term for a person who is not merely deceitful but spiritually soiled and impious. It is linked with active wickedness, sin, and evildoing, defining an individual at odds with God and righteousness. The Bible portrays the hypocrite's destiny as one of judgment, futility, and ultimate separation from God's presence, serving as a stark warning against internal corruption.
TRV