a primitive root; (compare לָוָה, לוּט and לוּן); to turn aside , i.e. (literally) to depart, (figuratively) be perverse; depart, froward, perverse(-ness).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **lûwz**, represented by `{{H3868}}`, is a primitive root that means to turn aside. Appearing **6 times** in **6 unique verses**, its usage signifies both a literal departure and a figurative state of being **perverse** or **froward**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H3868}}` carries a dual meaning. Literally, it is used as a command not to let sound wisdom and discretion **depart** from one's sight ([[Proverbs 3:21]], [[Proverbs 4:21]]). Figuratively, it describes a character flaw of being **froward** or **perverse**. A **froward** person is described as an abomination to the LORD `{{H3068}}` [[Proverbs 3:32]], and one who is **perverse** in his ways despises Him [[Proverbs 14:2]]. This perverseness is associated with crooked ways [[Proverbs 2:15]] and is something the disobedient trust in, along with oppression [[Isaiah 30:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the concept of perversity by contrast or association:
* `{{H1870}}` **derek** (a road... a course of life or mode of action): This word for "way" provides the context for perversity. A person who is **perverse** `{{H3868}}` in his **ways** `{{H1870}}` is contrasted with one who walks in uprightness [[Proverbs 14:2]].
* `{{H3477}}` **yâshâr** (straight... just, right): This term for what is "right" or "righteous" stands in direct opposition to `{{H3868}}`. The LORD's `{{H3068}}` secret is with the **righteous** `{{H3477}}`, while the froward `{{H3868}}` are an abomination to Him [[Proverbs 3:32]].
* `{{H6141}}` **ʻiqqêsh** (distorted... crooked, froward, perverse): Often used alongside `{{H3868}}`, this word describes the nature of the paths of the froward. Scripture speaks of those whose ways are **crooked** `{{H6141}}` and are froward `{{H3868}}` in their paths [[Proverbs 2:15]].
* `{{H8172}}` **shâʻan** (to support one's self; lean, lie, rely, rest): This word for "rely" or "stay" is used to show misplaced trust. The people of Israel are condemned for despising God's word and choosing to trust and **stay** `{{H8172}}` on oppression and perverseness `{{H3868}}` [[Isaiah 30:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3868}}` is significant in defining the nature of sin and rebellion.
* **The Path of Perversity:** `{{H3868}}` illustrates a deliberate turning away from the straight path of uprightness `{{H3476}}` defined by God. A person who is **perverse** `{{H3868}}` in his ways `{{H1870}}` actively despiseth the LORD `{{H3068}}` [[Proverbs 14:2]].
* **An Abomination to God:** The state of being **froward** `{{H3868}}` is not a neutral quality; it is an **abomination** `{{H8441}}` to the LORD [[Proverbs 3:32]]. This highlights a fundamental incompatibility between a perverse heart and the character of the Holy One `{{H6918}}` of Israel `{{H3478}}`.
* **Misplaced Trust and Focus:** The word is used negatively to instruct the faithful, "let them not **depart** from thine eyes" [[Proverbs 3:21]], referring to wisdom. Conversely, the disobedient are condemned because they trust `{{H982}}` in **perverseness** `{{H3868}}` and stay `{{H8172}}` thereon, despising God's word [[Isaiah 30:12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3868}}` defines a critical spiritual and moral deviation. It moves from a literal sense of letting something **depart** from view to a figurative description of a **perverse** character. This perversity is characterized by crooked paths, a despising of God, and a misplaced trust in oppression. Ultimately, the Bible presents being **froward** `{{H3868}}` as a condition that is an abomination to the LORD, standing in stark contrast to the uprightness He desires for His people.
TRV