### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼakzâb**, represented by `{{H391}}`, denotes **falsehood** or a **lie**. It appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, and by implication, it carries a strong sense of **treachery** and deceit. The term is used to describe something that proves unreliable or fails to meet expectations, leading to deep disappointment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, `{{H391}}` is used as a powerful metaphor for unreliability. The prophet Jeremiah, in a state of anguish over his perpetual **pain** `{{H3511}}` and incurable **wound** `{{H4347}}`, asks God if He will be like a **liar** `{{H391}}` and like **waters** `{{H4325}}` that **fail** `{{H539}}` [[Jeremiah 15:18]]. In Micah's prophecy, the "houses of Achzib" are foretold to become a **lie** `{{H391}}` to the kings of Israel, signifying that this place of supposed security would ultimately deceive them [[Micah 1:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illuminate the concept of deceit and failed reliance:
* `{{H392}}` **ʼAkzîyb** (deceitful): This place name is derived from **ʼakzâb** and its very definition points to "a winter-torrent which fails in summer." Its use in [[Micah 1:14]] directly links a physical location to the concept of being a **lie** `{{H391}}`.
* `{{H4325}}` **mayim** (water): In scripture, water often symbolizes life and sustenance. Its pairing with **ʼakzâb** in [[Jeremiah 15:18]] creates the potent image of a promise of life that turns out to be a deceptive mirage.
* `{{H539}}` **ʼâman** (to be firm or faithful, to trust or believe): This word for faithfulness and truth is used in [[Jeremiah 15:18]] to mean its opposite: to **fail**. This starkly contrasts the expected nature of God with the prophet's fear that He has become unreliable like an **ʼakzâb**.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H391}}` is concentrated in its depiction of profound disappointment and the crisis of faith that follows.
* **Metaphor for Unreliability:** The term is used to express the ultimate betrayal—when a trusted source proves false. This is most powerfully seen when Jeremiah fears God Himself has become like a deceptive stream [[Jeremiah 15:18]].
* **The Deception of False Security:** In Micah, **ʼakzâb** is tied to prophetic judgment, warning that human strongholds like the houses of Achzib will prove to be a **lie** `{{H391}}`, offering no real protection.
* **The Pain of Betrayal:** The context of `{{H391}}` in Jeremiah connects it directly to suffering, linking it with incurable **wounds** `{{H4347}}` and perpetual **pain** `{{H3511}}`. This highlights that being met with a **lie** is a source of deep and grievous sorrow.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H391}}` is a rare but powerful term that goes beyond a simple falsehood. It captures the essence of **treachery** and the pain of failed expectations. Through vivid imagery of failing waters and deceptive places, **ʼakzâb** illustrates the devastating experience of trusting in something that ultimately proves to be a lie.
TRV