from the same as יָקֶה; obedience; gathering, to obey.
Transliteration:yiqqâhâh
Pronunciation:yik-kaw-haw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term יִקָּהָה (yiqqâhâh), Strong's `{{H3349}}`, is a rare noun whose core meaning revolves around the concept of "obedience." Its etymological root is linked to יָקֶה (yaqeh), `{{H3348}}`, which carries nuances of attentiveness, purity, and heeding. This connection suggests that yiqqâhâh implies not merely outward compliance, but an inward disposition of listening and submission. The base definition also includes "gathering" or "to obey," which might allude to the "gathering" of one's attention or will in a focused act of submission, or the collective adherence to a command. However, its sole biblical occurrence strongly emphasizes the aspect of required obedience.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word יִקָּהָה (yiqqâhâh) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in [[Proverbs 30:17]]: "The eye that mocks a father and scorns to obey a mother—the ravens of the valley will pick it out, and the young eagles will devour it."
In this powerful proverb, yiqqâhâh (specifically in the construct form לִיקְּהַת - liqqehat, "to the obedience of") is placed in direct parallel with "mocks a father" (לָעַג לְאָב). The phrase "scorns to obey a mother" (וּבֻז לִיקְּהַת אֵם) condemns the contemptuous rejection of a mother's authority and the obedience due to her. The word here signifies the instruction, command, or authority that demands obedience from a child. It is not the mother's *own* obedience, but rather the *obedience expected by* or *due to* the mother that is scorned. The verse vividly illustrates the severe, natural consequences—a gruesome death—for those who defy parental authority, underscoring the gravity of such disrespect in the wisdom tradition.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is יָקֶה (yaqeh), `{{H3348}}`, from which יִקָּהָה is derived. This root is associated with concepts of attentiveness and the act of heeding. Other Hebrew terms for obedience include שָׁמַע (shama', `{{H8085}}`), which means "to hear" but frequently extends to "to listen and obey," and עָשָׂה (asah, `{{H6213}}`), "to do" or "to make," often implying the execution of a command.
In the broader conceptual framework, יִקָּהָה is deeply intertwined with:
* **Filial Piety:** The respect and obedience owed by children to their parents, a cornerstone of ancient Near Eastern and biblical ethics.
* **Authority:** The recognition and submission to legitimate authority, whether parental, societal, or divine.
* **Wisdom and Folly:** Within the book of Proverbs, obedience to parental instruction is a mark of wisdom, while its rejection is characteristic of folly leading to destruction.
* **Discipline and Instruction:** The word implies a response to parental guidance and correction.
### Theological Significance
Though appearing only once, the theological weight of יִקָּהָה in [[Proverbs 30:17]] is substantial. It underscores the profound importance of obedience within the biblical worldview.
1. **Divine Mandate for Filial Piety:** The command to honor father and mother ([[Exodus 20:12]], [[Deuteronomy 5:16]]) is a foundational tenet of the Decalogue. Disobedience to parents is not merely a social transgression but a violation of a divine order. The severe judgment pronounced in [[Proverbs 30:17]] reflects God's deep concern for the integrity of the family unit and the respect due to those He has placed in authority.
2. **Order and Chaos:** Obedience to established authority, beginning with the family, is essential for maintaining order within creation. The rejection of a mother's yiqqâhâh signifies a descent into chaos and self-destruction, reflecting a rejection of the divinely ordained structure of life.
3. **Wisdom and Life:** Proverbs consistently links wisdom with heeding instruction and obedience, leading to life and blessing. Conversely, folly, characterized by rebellion and scorn, leads to destruction and death. The fate of the disobedient eye in [[Proverbs 30:17]] is a stark reminder of the existential consequences of rejecting wisdom's path.
4. **Reflection of Relationship with God:** The human relationship of obedience to parents often serves as a microcosm or a training ground for obedience to God. To scorn the yiqqâhâh of a mother is to demonstrate a heart predisposed to rejecting all rightful authority, including divine authority.
### Summary
יִקָּהָה (yiqqâhâh), `{{H3349}}`, is a rare but potent Hebrew term found exclusively in [[Proverbs 30:17]]. Its primary meaning is "obedience," specifically the obedience due to or demanded by a parent. Derived from a root signifying attentiveness and heeding, it implies a focused submission to instruction. In its sole biblical context, it highlights the severe consequences—a gruesome demise—for those who mock a father and scorn the obedience owed to a mother. Theologically, yiqqâhâh powerfully reinforces the divine mandate for filial piety, underscores the importance of obedience for societal and cosmic order, and serves as a stark warning against the folly of rejecting legitimate authority, particularly that within the family, which often mirrors one's disposition towards God Himself.
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