from לָכַד; something to capture with, i.e. a noose; being taken.
Transliteration:leked
Pronunciation:leh'ked
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun לֶכֶד (transliterated *leked*, `{{H3921}}`) is derived from the verbal root לָכַד (*lakad*, `{{H3920}}`), which means "to catch, seize, capture, take." As a noun, *leked* primarily denotes "something to capture with," specifically a "noose," "snare," or "trap." Its semantic range extends to encompass not only the physical instrument of capture but also the state or act of "being taken" or "being ensnared." Thus, it can refer to a literal device used for trapping animals, or it can be employed metaphorically to describe a situation of danger, entrapment, or ruin, often implying an insidious or sudden peril.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term לֶכֶד appears a limited number of times in the Hebrew Bible, but each instance provides significant insight into its usage:
* **[[Psalm 141:9]]**: "Keep me from the snares which they have laid for me, and from the traps of those who work iniquity." Here, *leked* is used in parallel with "traps" (מוֹקְשׁוֹת, *moqshot*, `{{H4170}}`), clearly referring to the malicious plots and schemes devised by the wicked to entrap the righteous. The psalmist's plea is for divine protection from the spiritual and physical dangers posed by adversaries.
* **[[Job 22:10]]**: "Therefore snares are all around you, and sudden dread terrifies you." In this verse, Eliphaz the Temanite, in his accusation against Job, asserts that "snares" (לְכֻדִים, *lekhudim*, plural of *leked*) are a consequence of Job's supposed sin. The "snares" here represent the dire circumstances, troubles, and judgments that surround Job, which Eliphaz attributes to divine retribution. It signifies a state of being caught in the repercussions of one's actions or God's judgment.
* **[[Job 40:24]]**: "Can anyone take him by his eyes, or pierce his nose with a snare?" This occurrence is found within God's discourse to Job concerning the Behemoth. Here, *leked* refers to a literal "snare" or "noose" used for capturing a large, powerful animal. This usage highlights the concrete, physical aspect of the word, emphasizing the formidable nature of the creature that cannot be easily caught by such means.
Across these contexts, *leked* consistently conveys the idea of entrapment, whether through human malice, divine judgment, or as a physical means of capture. It underscores vulnerability and the potential for sudden, overwhelming difficulty.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the verbal root from which *leked* is derived: לָכַד (*lakad*, `{{H3920}}`), "to catch, seize, capture." This verb is frequently used to describe the capture of cities, people, or animals.
Other Hebrew words that share a semantic field with *leked* and are often used in parallel or similar contexts include:
* מוֹקֵשׁ (*moqesh*, `{{H4170}}`): "snare, trap, bait." This is a very common term for a trap, often used metaphorically for temptation, danger, or a cause of ruin. It appears in [[Psalm 141:9]] alongside *leked*.
* פַּח (*pach*, `{{H6341}}`): "snare, trap." Another frequent term for a snare, often associated with the fowler's trap, and similarly used both literally and figuratively for danger or entrapment.
* רֶשֶׁת (*reshet*, `{{H7568}}`): "net." While primarily a net for fishing or hunting, it can also imply a form of entrapment.
Conceptually, *leked* relates to themes of:
* **Deception and Malice:** The cunning of adversaries who lay traps for the innocent.
* **Consequences of Sin:** The idea that one can become ensnared by their own iniquity or by divine judgment.
* **Vulnerability and Deliverance:** The human condition of being susceptible to dangers, and the need for divine intervention to escape them.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of לֶכֶד is multifaceted, touching upon aspects of human sin, divine justice, and God's protective care.
1. **The Peril of the Wicked:** The use of *leked* to describe the "snares" laid by the wicked (e.g., [[Psalm 141:9]]) highlights the insidious nature of evil. Human adversaries are portrayed as cunning and malevolent, actively seeking to entrap and harm the righteous. This underscores the reality of spiritual warfare and the constant need for vigilance and divine aid.
2. **Divine Retribution and Discipline:** In contexts like [[Job 22:10]], "snares" can represent the consequences that befall those who deviate from God's path. While Eliphaz misapplies this to Job, the principle remains that sin can lead to a state of being "caught" in its destructive repercussions or in God's just judgment. It serves as a warning against unrighteous living.
3. **God as Deliverer:** Crucially, the presence of "snares" in the biblical narrative often serves to magnify God's role as the ultimate deliverer. The psalmist's plea in [[Psalm 141:9]] implicitly acknowledges God's power to "keep me from the snares." This reinforces the theological truth that despite the dangers and traps laid by enemies or the consequences of sin, God is faithful to rescue those who trust in Him. This resonates with broader biblical themes of salvation and protection from all forms of evil.
4. **Human Vulnerability:** The imagery of a "snare" emphasizes the fragility and vulnerability of humanity. Without divine assistance, individuals are easily caught and overcome by the forces of evil or the weight of their own choices. This fosters a posture of humility and dependence on God.
### Summary
The Hebrew word לֶכֶד (*leked*, `{{H3921}}`) denotes a "snare," "trap," or the "state of being caught." Derived from the verb לָכַד (*lakad*, `{{H3920}}`) meaning "to catch," it is used both literally for physical capture (e.g., [[Job 40:24]]) and metaphorically for dangers, consequences, or the malicious plots of adversaries (e.g., [[Psalm 141:9]], [[Job 22:10]]). Theologically, *leked* highlights the insidious nature of human evil and the consequences of sin, while simultaneously underscoring human vulnerability and, most importantly, God's sovereign power to deliver His people from all forms of entrapment and peril. It serves as a reminder to seek refuge and deliverance in the Lord, who alone can free from the snares of life.
TRV