### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mᵉʼêrâh**, represented by `{{H3994}}`, is a powerful term for an **execration** or **curse**. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from the primitive root `{{H779}}` **ʼârar**, meaning to "bitterly curse," this word signifies a divine judgment or a severe consequence resulting from specific actions or attitudes.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H3994}}` consistently denotes a severe consequence for disobedience and wickedness. The LORD sends this **curse** as a direct result of forsaking Him [[Deuteronomy 28:20]] or failing to give **glory** `{{H3519}}` to His name [[Malachi 2:2]]. The term is applied to the "house of the wicked" [[Proverbs 3:33]] and to the entire nation for robbing God [[Malachi 3:9]]. It is also portrayed as the outcome for those who ignore the needs of the poor by hiding their eyes [[Proverbs 28:27]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context and cause of the **curse**:
* `{{H779}}` **ʼârar** (to execrate; bitterly curse): This primitive root is the direct source of **mᵉʼêrâh** and represents the act of pronouncing a curse. It is used in parallel to describe how God will **curse** the blessings of the disobedient priests [[Malachi 2:2]] and how the nation is **cursed** for its actions [[Malachi 3:9]].
* `{{H1293}}` **Bᵉrâkâh** (blessing): This word serves as the direct antonym to **mᵉʼêrâh**. Scripture often contrasts the two, as seen in [[Proverbs 3:33]], where the **curse** is on the house of the wicked, while God blesses the habitation of the just.
* `{{H7455}}` **rôaʻ** (wickedness): This term for moral badness or evil is presented as the grounds for divine judgment. The **curse** is sent because of the **wickedness** of their doings [[Deuteronomy 28:20]].
* `{{H5800}}` **ʻâzab** (to forsake): This verb identifies a primary cause for invoking the **curse**. In [[Deuteronomy 28:20]], the curse is a consequence for having **forsaken** the LORD.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3994}}` is significant, highlighting key principles of divine justice.
* **Divine Retribution:** The concept of `{{H3994}}` is intrinsically linked to God's judgment. The **curse** is not a random misfortune but a deliberate and targeted consequence sent by the LORD in response to specific sins like wickedness and forsaking Him ([[Deuteronomy 28:20]], [[Proverbs 3:33]]).
* **Conditionality of Blessing:** The presence of a **curse** underscores the conditional nature of God's favor. In Malachi, the priests are warned that their very blessings will be cursed if they fail to lay it to **heart** `{{H3820}}` to give God **glory** `{{H3519}}` [[Malachi 2:2]].
* **Social and Spiritual Responsibility:** The term is applied to both personal and national conduct. A **curse** can result from social injustice, such as ignoring the poor [[Proverbs 28:27]], and from spiritual failure, such as robbing God [[Malachi 3:9]].
* **A Component of Judgment:** In [[Deuteronomy 28:20]], **cursing** `{{H3994}}` is listed alongside **vexation** `{{H4103}}` and **rebuke** `{{H4045}}`, indicating it is part of a comprehensive divine response to disobedience that leads to destruction and ruin.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3994}}` **mᵉʼêrâh** is not merely a word for bad luck but a specific term for a divinely imposed **execration**. It functions as a stark warning throughout scripture, representing the direct and severe consequences of abandoning God's commands, neglecting justice, and withholding honor from Him. Its use highlights the clear biblical principle that actions have consequences, positioning the **curse** as the definitive outcome for wickedness and disobedience, in direct opposition to the **blessing** `{{H1293}}` reserved for the just.
TRV