a primitive root; to gulp; figuratively, to be rash; swallow down (up).
Transliteration:lûwaʻ
Pronunciation:loo'-ah
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew root `{{H3886}}` (lûwaʻ) is a primitive root, conveying the primary sense of "to gulp" or "to swallow down/up." This literal meaning implies a rapid, unthinking, or even voracious consumption. From this concrete action, the word extends figuratively to describe human behavior, specifically "to be rash" or "to act impulsively." The semantic connection lies in the idea of quickly "swallowing" a decision or commitment without due consideration, much like one might gulp down food without savoring it. It denotes a lack of prudence, forethought, and deliberation, leading to hasty and potentially regrettable actions.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The root `{{H3886}}` appears in its verbal form only once in the Hebrew Bible, in [[Proverbs 20:25]]: "It is a snare to a man to devote rashly what is holy, and after vows to make inquiry."
In this solitary, yet highly significant, occurrence, the word "rashly" (לְוָעַ, lᵉwāʻaʻ) functions as an adverbial infinitive construct, modifying the act of "devoting" (קָדַשׁ, qādash - to be holy, consecrate). The verse warns against the profound danger of making a hasty or ill-considered vow or dedication of something sacred to God. The act of "devoting rashly what is holy" implies a commitment made without proper reflection on its implications, its feasibility, or its true cost. The second part of the proverb, "and after vows to make inquiry," underscores the folly of such impulsiveness: one makes a sacred promise and *then* begins to consider its ramifications, often to their detriment. This context highlights the seriousness with which vows to God were regarded in ancient Israel, emphasizing that such commitments should be the product of careful deliberation, not a sudden impulse.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept expressed by `{{H3886}}` resonates with several other biblical themes and lexical fields. It stands in contrast to words emphasizing wisdom, prudence, and careful speech.
* **Prudence and Wisdom:** The opposite of rashness is wisdom (`{{H2451}}`, ḥokmâ) and prudence (`{{H6195}}`, ʻārōm or `{{H995}}`, bîn). Proverbs frequently contrasts the wise person, who considers their steps, with the fool (`{{H3684}}`, kᵉsîl), who acts impulsively.
* **Haste and Impulsivity:** Other words conveying haste include `{{H2648}}` (ḥāphaz - to be in haste, hurry), often with negative connotations when applied to decision-making.
* **Vows and Oaths:** The context of [[Proverbs 20:25]] directly links `{{H3886}}` to the making of vows (`{{H5087}}`, neder) and oaths (`{{H7621}}`, shᵉvu'ah). The Mosaic Law and wisdom literature consistently emphasize the sanctity and binding nature of vows made to God (e.g., Deuteronomy 23:21-23, Ecclesiastes 5:4-6).
* **Sacredness:** The phrase "what is holy" (קֹדֶשׁ, qōdesh) underscores the object of the rash act, emphasizing that it pertains to matters consecrated to God, thus amplifying the seriousness of the error.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of `{{H3886}}` in [[Proverbs 20:25]] carries profound theological weight, particularly concerning human interaction with the divine.
1. **Reverence for the Sacred:** The word implicitly calls for a deep reverence and awe when approaching matters pertaining to God. To "devote rashly what is holy" is to treat sacred things with a lack of proper respect and deliberation, potentially trivializing what God has set apart.
2. **Integrity of Vows:** It underscores the absolute seriousness with which God regards human vows and commitments made to Him. God is faithful to His covenant, and He expects His people to be faithful to their promises, especially those made directly to Him. Rash vows demonstrate a lack of integrity and foresight, which can lead to spiritual and practical pitfalls.
3. **Wisdom in Decision-Making:** The proverb, and thus `{{H3886}}`, is a call to wisdom and prudence in all aspects of life, especially in religious practice. It warns against impulsive piety or emotional commitments that are not rooted in thoughtful consideration and a true understanding of one's obligations. This aligns with the broader biblical emphasis on seeking wisdom and understanding before acting (e.g., Proverbs 4:7, James 1:5).
4. **Consequences of Folly:** The phrase "it is a snare to a man" highlights the detrimental consequences of rashness. Such actions can entrap an individual in obligations they cannot fulfill, leading to guilt, divine displeasure, or practical difficulties. This reflects the biblical principle that folly, including spiritual impulsiveness, inevitably leads to negative outcomes.
### Summary
The Hebrew word `{{H3886}}` (lûwaʻ), originating from the literal act of "gulping," figuratively denotes "to be rash" or "to act impulsively." Its sole biblical appearance in [[Proverbs 20:25]] serves as a potent warning against the profound danger of "devoting rashly what is holy, and after vows to make inquiry." This highlights the theological imperative for reverence, careful deliberation, and integrity when engaging with sacred matters, particularly in making vows to God. The word underscores the divine expectation of thoughtful, intentional commitment rather than impulsive piety, emphasizing that such rashness can ensnare an individual and lead to undesirable consequences. It stands as a timeless admonition for prudence and wisdom in all aspects of life, especially concerning one's relationship and promises to the Most High.
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