### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun lâtsôwn (לָצוֹן), Strong's number `{{H3944}}`, is derived from the verbal root lûts (לוּץ), which carries the core meaning of "to mock," "scoff," or "deride." Consequently, lâtsôwn itself signifies "derision," "scorn," "mockery," or the act of "scoffing." It describes an attitude or expression characterized by contempt, disdain, and often an arrogant dismissal of serious matters, particularly wisdom, instruction, or divine truth. It is not merely lighthearted jesting, but a profound and often malicious contempt for that which is good or sacred.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term lâtsôwn appears predominantly in the book of Proverbs, with a notable occurrence in Isaiah. Its usage consistently highlights the character and consequences of the "scoffer" (lēṣ, `{{H3887}}`), who embodies this attitude.
In **Proverbs**, lâtsôwn is frequently contrasted with wisdom and righteousness:
* [[Proverbs 1:22]] asks, "How long, O simple ones, will you love being simple? How long will scoffers delight in their scoffing and fools hate knowledge?" Here, lâtsôwn is the "scoffing" that the lēṣ (H3887) delights in, standing in stark opposition to knowledge.
* [[Proverbs 3:34]] states, "Toward the scoffers he is scornful, but to the humble he gives favor." This verse reveals God's active opposition to the attitude of lâtsôwn, mirroring their scorn with divine judgment.
* [[Proverbs 9:7-8]] warns that "Whoever corrects a scoffer gets dishonor for himself... Do not reprove a scoffer, or he will hate you." This illustrates the imperviousness of the scoffer to correction, a defining characteristic of lâtsôwn.
* [[Proverbs 21:24]] describes the proud and haughty man as a "scoffer" (lēṣ), whose actions are driven by "insolent pride" (zādôn, `{{H2087}}`). This links lâtsôwn directly to arrogance and hubris.
* [[Proverbs 29:8]] notes that "Scoffers set a city aflame, but the wise turn away wrath." This highlights the destructive social impact of lâtsôwn, implying that it incites strife and disorder.
In **Isaiah**:
* [[Isaiah 28:22]] warns, "Now therefore do not be scoffers, lest your bonds be made strong; for I have heard a decree of destruction from the Lord GOD of hosts upon the whole land." Here, lâtsôwn (as "scoffers") is a dangerous attitude in the face of divine judgment, leading to increased bondage and destruction. The scoffers are those who mock God's warnings and prophetic words.
Across these contexts, lâtsôwn consistently denotes a deep-seated contempt for divine wisdom, moral instruction, and righteous living, leading to spiritual and societal harm.
### Related Words & Concepts
Lâtsôwn is intimately connected to several key biblical concepts and terms:
* **lēṣ (לֵץ, `{{H3887}}`):** This is the agent noun, "scoffer" or "mocker," directly derived from the same root lûts. The lēṣ is the personification of lâtsôwn.
* **Folly ('iwwæleth, `{{H200}}`) and Foolishness (kesîl, `{{H3684}}`):** Scoffing is a primary characteristic and manifestation of folly. The scoffer embodies the opposite of wisdom.
* **Wisdom (ḥokmâ, `{{H2451}}`) and Knowledge (da'ath, `{{H1847}}`):** Lâtsôwn stands in direct opposition to these virtues. The scoffer rejects wisdom, despises knowledge, and disdains instruction.
* **Pride (gā'ôn, `{{H1346}}` or zādôn, `{{H2087}}`):** The attitude of lâtsôwn often stems from an arrogant and haughty heart that considers itself superior to divine or human counsel.
* **Rebellion (merî, `{{H4784}}`):** Scoffing can be seen as a form of rebellion against established authority, particularly divine authority, as it dismisses warnings and commands.
* **Correction/Discipline (mûsār, `{{H4148}}`):** The scoffer's defining trait is their resistance to and hatred of correction, making them impervious to growth and repentance.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of lâtsôwn is profound within the Old Testament, particularly in the wisdom tradition. It represents a severe spiritual posture that goes beyond mere intellectual disagreement.
1. **Opposition to God's Wisdom:** Lâtsôwn signifies a hardened heart that actively resists and scorns divine wisdom, instruction, and the path of righteousness. It is a deliberate choice to reject God's guidance and embrace a path of self-sufficiency and moral relativism.
2. **Divine Retribution:** The Bible teaches that God responds to lâtsôwn with divine "scorn" ([[Proverbs 3:34]]). This highlights a principle of divine justice where God's response mirrors the attitude of the human heart, demonstrating that He will not be mocked.
3. **Spiritual Impenetrability:** The scoffer is presented as someone unreachable by conventional means of instruction or correction. Their lâtsôwn creates a barrier that prevents them from receiving truth, making them spiritually impenetrable and destined for destruction.
4. **Social Destructiveness:** The presence of lâtsôwn is depicted as socially corrosive. Scoffers incite strife and lead society astray ([[Proverbs 29:8]]), contributing to chaos rather than order.
5. **An Abomination:** [[Proverbs 24:9]] declares that "the scoffer is an abomination to mankind." This strong language underscores the gravity of this attitude in God's eyes and in the eyes of a righteous community. Lâtsôwn is not a minor fault but a fundamental defect of character that alienates one from God and humanity.
### Summary
Lâtsôwn (לָצוֹן, `{{H3944}}`) is a potent Hebrew term signifying "derision," "scorn," or "mockery." Derived from the root lûts, it describes an attitude of contemptuous dismissal, particularly towards wisdom, divine instruction, and righteousness. Primarily found in Proverbs, it characterizes the "scoffer" (lēṣ, `{{H3887}}`), who is impervious to correction, delights in their own folly, and actively opposes knowledge. Theologically, lâtsôwn represents a dangerous spiritual state of a hardened heart that rejects God's truth, inviting divine opposition and leading to destruction. It is a profound manifestation of pride, folly, and unrighteousness in the biblical worldview, serving as a stark warning against embracing such a disposition.
TRV