The Hebrew word lᵉzûwth, represented by H3891, denotes perverseness or something that is perverse. It is a very rare term, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible. Its meaning is derived from a root word signifying perversity, highlighting a deviation from what is right or straight.
The single use of H3891 is found in a command regarding speech. In Proverbs 4:24, the reader is instructed to "put away from thee a froward mouth, and perverse lips put far from thee." Here, lᵉzûwth is used to describe lips H8193 that are deviant or crooked. The verse places it in parallel with a "froward mouth" H6143, emphasizing a strong rejection of corrupt communication. The command is to actively remove H5493 and put this kind of speech far away H7368.
Several related words clarify the meaning of H3891 within its sole scriptural context:
- H6143 ʻiqqᵉshûwth (perversity; froward): Used in parallel with lᵉzûwth to describe a "froward mouth" Proverbs 4:24, this term is explicitly linked to the speech of a wicked person Proverbs 6:12, reinforcing its negative moral character.
- H5493 çûwr (to turn off): This is the verb of action directed at the "froward mouth." It signifies a command to remove or depart, seen elsewhere in calls to "put away the strange gods" 1 Samuel 7:3 or when God promises to "take sickness away" Exodus 23:25.
- H8193 sâphâh (the lip; language; speech): This is the part of the body described as perverse H3891. Scripture often treats lips as an indicator of one's inner state, noting that they can be "unclean" Isaiah 6:5 or that a righteous person does not sin with them Job 2:10.
The theological weight of H3891, though from a single verse, centers on the principle of sanctified speech.
- Active Discipline of Speech: The command is not merely to avoid perverse speech but to actively "put away" H5493 and "put far" H7368 from it. This suggests that guarding one's words is a critical aspect of a righteous life, as keeping the mouth keeps one's life Proverbs 13:3.
- Speech as an Indicator of the Heart: The use of lᵉzûwth to describe lips highlights that outward speech is a direct reflection of one's inner character. This aligns with the critique of those who honor God with their lips while their hearts are far from Him Isaiah 29:13.
- The Command for Separation: By instructing the reader to remove perverse lips, the text treats corrupt speech as a defilement that must be separated from one's life. This echoes broader biblical themes of putting away evil, whether it be false gods 1 Samuel 7:3 or iniquity in general Job 22:23.
In summary, lᵉzûwth H3891 is a highly specific term for perverseness. Its sole appearance in Proverbs 4:24 defines it in the context of corrupt speech, describing lips that deviate from truth and righteousness. Paired with "froward mouth," it forms part of a stern command to actively purify one's communication. Though rare, H3891 contributes to the significant biblical theme that wise and godly living requires deliberate control over one's words.
TRV