### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **kâzab**, represented by `{{H3576}}`, is a primitive root used to describe the act of lying or deceiving. It appears **16 times** across **16 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning extends from literal falsehood to the figurative concept of failure or being in vain, establishing a clear contrast between truth and deception.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H3576}}` is most powerfully used to define the nature of God as one who cannot lie. The declaration in Numbers states, "God is not a man, that he should **lie**" [[Numbers 23:19]], a promise reinforced by God's oath that he will not **lie** to David [[Psalms 89:35]]. In contrast, the term is frequently applied to human speech and action. Job challenges his friends, asking who will make him a **liar** [[Job 24:25]], and the Psalmist exclaims in haste, "All men are **liars**" [[Psalms 116:11]]. The word is also used figuratively, as in the description of a spring whose waters **fail** not [[Isaiah 58:11]], connecting the idea of lying with unreliability.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concepts of deception and falsehood:
* `{{H3577}}` **kâzâb** (falsehood): This derivative noun signifies the lie itself. It is used to describe the `lies` that caused Judah to err [[Amos 2:4]] and the `leasing` (falsehood) sought after by the sons of men [[Psalms 4:2]].
* `{{H6601}}` **pâthâh** (deceive): This root refers to the act of deluding or enticing someone. It is used when a lying spirit is sent to `persuade` the prophets [[1 Kings 22:22]] and when sinners `entice` the innocent [[Proverbs 1:10]], highlighting the manipulative aspect of deception.
* `{{H8267}}` **sheqer** (an untruth): This word denotes a sham or falsehood, often in the context of idolatry or false witness. It describes a "lying tongue" as something God hates [[Proverbs 6:17]] and the `falsehood` of molten images that have no life in them [[Jeremiah 10:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3576}}` is significant, establishing a core biblical principle regarding truth and untruth.
* **The Veracity of God:** The word is used to establish God's absolute faithfulness. His prophetic vision will not **lie** [[Habakkuk 2:3]], and His very character is defined by His inability to **lie** [[Numbers 23:19]]. This makes truth a divine attribute.
* **Human Fallibility:** In direct contrast to God, humanity is characterized by deceit. Israel **lied** to God with their tongues [[Psalms 78:36]], and false prophets deliver messages by **lying** to the people [[Ezekiel 13:19]]. One is warned not to add to God's words, lest they be found a **liar** [[Proverbs 30:6]].
* **Lying as Failure:** The term’s figurative use connects deception with a failure to be reliable or fruitful. A hope can be **in vain** [[Job 41:9]], and a spring that is true to its nature is one that does not **fail** [[Isaiah 58:11]]. This equates falsehood with emptiness and unreliability.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3576}}` is a crucial term that moves beyond a simple definition of untruth. It serves as a theological benchmark, sharply contrasting the perfect truthfulness of God with the capacity for deceit found in humanity. By encompassing both literal deception and figurative failure, **kâzab** illustrates that in the biblical worldview, to lie is to fail in one’s purpose and to stand in opposition to the very nature of God.
TRV