### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mᵉdachphâh**, represented by `{{H4073}}`, means **a push, i.e. ruin; overthrow**. Stemming from a root word meaning "to push," this term appears just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, carrying a specific and powerful meaning of ultimate downfall.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{H4073}}` is found in a declaration of divine justice. In [[Psalms 140:11]], it is stated that evil `{{H7451}}` will pursue and hunt `{{H6679}}` a violent `{{H2555}}` man `{{H376}}` to his **overthrow**. This context firmly links the word to the concept of retribution, where a life of violence inevitably leads to a forceful and complete ruin. It is the final, calamitous end for one who will not be established `{{H3559}}` in the earth `{{H776}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its sole context in [[Psalms 140:11]] help clarify the meaning of `{{H4073}}`:
* `{{H2555}}` **châmâç** (violence; by implication, wrong; by meton. unjust gain): This word describes the character of the man destined for overthrow. The Lord is a savior from **violence** [[2 Samuel 22:3]], and his soul hates those who love **violence** [[Psalms 11:5]].
* `{{H3559}}` **kûwn** (to be erect, set up, establish, fix, prepare): This term stands in direct contrast to the idea of overthrow. The psalmist declares that an evil speaker will not **be established** [[Psalms 140:11]], while the LORD **directeth** the steps of the righteous [[Proverbs 16:9]].
* `{{H3956}}` **lâshôwn** (the tongue, speech, language): The verse identifies the target of judgment as an "evil speaker," literally a "man of **tongue**." This highlights the destructive power of speech, as the **tongue** is noted to hold the power of death and life [[Proverbs 18:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4073}}` is focused on the principle of divine consequence.
* **The Inevitability of Judgment:** The term illustrates that a life of violence `{{H2555}}` has a built-in trajectory toward ruin. The "overthrow" is not a random accident but the result of being hunted by the very evil `{{H7451}}` one perpetrates [[Psalms 140:11]].
* **The Instability of Wickedness:** The concept of "overthrow" is the antithesis of being established `{{H3559}}`. While the thoughts of those who commit their works to the Lord **shall be established** [[Proverbs 16:3]], the foundation of an "evil speaker" is destined for collapse.
* **Divine Retribution:** `{{H4073}}` represents the active outworking of God's justice. The violent man `{{H376}}` is not merely defeated; he is pushed down into ruin, demonstrating that God's moral order will ultimately prevail against those who practice violence and cruelty `{{H2555}}`.
### Summary
In summary, while appearing only once, `{{H4073}}` delivers a powerful and concise message. It signifies a complete and final **overthrow**, a ruin that serves as the just end for a life of violence. Its meaning is defined by its solitary context in [[Psalms 140:11]], where it stands as a stark warning that a foundation of wickedness cannot stand and will ultimately be pushed into ruin by divine justice.
TRV