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.
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.
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.
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.
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