The Hebrew word kechâsh, represented by H3586, is a term for faithless or lying. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse, making its single usage highly specific. The word derives from a root meaning to be faithless, indicating that it describes not just an act of deception, but a state of unfaithfulness.
The sole biblical use of H3586 is found in Isaiah 30:9, where the prophet describes the people of Israel. They are called a "rebellious people, lying children, children that will not hear the law of the LORD." In this context, the word is not used for a simple falsehood but is directly equated with a rebellious character and a willful refusal to obey divine instruction. It defines the people's core disposition toward God.
Several related words from its single context in Isaiah 30:9 help clarify its meaning:
- H4805 mᵉrîy (rebellious): This word, meaning "rebellion," is used in the same verse to describe the people. It establishes that being "lying" H3586 is an expression of a deeper, rebellious nature against God Isaiah 30:9.
- H1121 bên (son): Defined as "a son," this term is used for "children" in Isaiah 30:9. It frames the people's deception as a violation of their relationship with God, acting as unfaithful children rather than obedient sons. The identity of Israel as "sons of Jacob" is a recurring theme Malachi 3:6.
- H8085 shâmaʻ (to hear): This word implies hearing with attention and obedience. The "lying children" are specifically those who "will not hear the law of the LORD," linking their falsehood directly to a refusal to listen to and obey God's commands Isaiah 30:9.
The theological weight of H3586, despite its rarity, is significant. It illustrates key aspects of sin and disobedience.
- Rejection of Divine Law: The word is explicitly tied to a refusal to "hear the law of the LORD" Isaiah 30:9. This frames lying not merely as a social misdeed but as an act of spiritual unfaithfulness and rejection of God's authority.
- Symptom of Rebellion: By being paired with "rebellious people" H4805, kechâsh is presented as a clear symptom of a heart in rebellion against God. The deception is an outward manifestation of an inward state of opposition.
- Breach of Relationship: The description of "lying children" H1121 highlights that this behavior is a fundamental breach of the covenant relationship between God and His people, who are called to be His sons.
In summary, H3586 is more than a simple word for "lying." Its single, powerful appearance in scripture defines it as an attribute of rebellion and unfaithfulness toward God. It illustrates how deception is intrinsically linked to a refusal to hear and obey God's law, marking a profound break in the relationship between the Creator and His children.
TRV