### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **madqârâh**, represented by `{{H4094}}`, is a specific term for **a wound** or **piercing**. Derived from a root meaning to pierce, this word is exceptionally rare. It appears only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, yet its single usage provides a powerful and lasting metaphor.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H4094}}` is in [[Proverbs 12:18]], where it illustrates the destructive power of reckless speech. The verse states, "There is that speaketh like the **piercings** of a sword." In this context, the word is not used to describe a literal, physical injury but rather the deep wounds that can be inflicted by harmful words. It is immediately contrasted with its opposite: "but the tongue of the wise is health" [[Proverbs 12:18]], setting up a clear distinction between destructive and restorative communication.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only context in [[Proverbs 12:18]] illuminate the meaning of `{{H4094}}`:
* `{{H981}}` **bâṭâʼ** (speaketh): This is the action that causes the wound, defined as "to babble; hence, to vociferate angrily; pronounce, speak (unadvisedly)". It points to rash or ill-considered speech, like that of Moses when he "spake unadvisedly with his lips" [[Psalms 106:33]].
* `{{H2719}}` **chereb** (sword): This word provides the physical object for the metaphor. As a "cutting instrument... sword," it is often associated with violence and destruction [[Leviticus 26:6]], making the comparison to hurtful words all the more potent.
* `{{H3956}}` **lâshôwn** (tongue): This is the instrument of both the piercing wounds and the healing words. The Bible presents the "tongue" as having immense power, with [[Proverbs 18:21]] stating, "Death and life are in the power of the **tongue**."
* `{{H4832}}` **marpêʼ** (health): This is the direct antithesis to the piercing. It means "a cure" or "healing" and describes the positive effect of wise and pleasant words [[Proverbs 16:24]] and is what a "wholesome tongue" brings [[Proverbs 15:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4094}}` is centered on the biblical understanding of speech and wisdom.
* **The Power to Wound:** The use of `{{H4094}}` in [[Proverbs 12:18]] vividly illustrates that words can inflict real harm. The comparison to the "piercings of a sword" `{{H2719}}` frames unadvised speech not as a minor slip but as a destructive act.
* **Speech as a Moral Indicator:** The verse's structure contrasts the one who "speaketh" `{{H981}}` rashly with the "tongue of the wise." This presents speech as an indicator of a person's inner character, where wisdom produces "health" `{{H4832}}`.
* **The Promise of Healing:** While human words can inflict piercing wounds, the concept of "health" or "remedy" `{{H4832}}` is frequently associated with a divine source. God promises to bring "health and cure" [[Jeremiah 33:6]], and the Sun of righteousness arises with "healing in his wings" [[Malachi 4:2]], presenting divine wisdom as the ultimate antidote.
### Summary
In summary, while **madqârâh** `{{H4094}}` is a rare word, its impact is significant. It serves as a potent metaphor in [[Proverbs 12:18]] to define the severe harm caused by reckless communication. The word does not stand alone but is part of a broader scriptural framework that contrasts the destructive "piercings" of a foolish tongue with the life-giving "health" that flows from wise speech, encapsulating a profound biblical teaching on the power of words.
TRV