### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mahălummâh**, represented by `{{H4112}}`, translates to **a blow; stripe, stroke**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. This term is used to describe a form of physical punishment or consequence resulting from specific behaviors.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The usage of `{{H4112}}` is found exclusively in the book of Proverbs, where it is directly tied to the consequences of foolishness. In one instance, scripture states that "judgments are prepared for scorners, and **stripes** for the back of fools" [[Proverbs 19:29]]. This links the word to a preordained consequence for those who scorn wisdom. Similarly, the word illustrates how foolish speech invites its own punishment, as "A fool's lips enter into contention, and his mouth calleth for **strokes**" [[Proverbs 18:6]]. In both cases, the blow or stroke is not a random event but a direct result of a person's character and actions.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context in which `{{H4112}}` appears:
* `{{H3684}}` **kᵉçîyl** (fool): This word, meaning **stupid or silly; fool(-ish)**, identifies the recipient of the "stripes" and "strokes". The term is central to wisdom literature, as seen when a **foolish** son is described as "the heaviness of his mother" [[Proverbs 10:1]].
* `{{H3887}}` **lûwts** (scorner): Defined as one who is **to scoff...mocker, scorn(-er, -ful)**, this describes the attitude that attracts judgment. The psalmist warns against sitting "in the seat of the **scornful**" [[Psalms 1:1]].
* `{{H7379}}` **rîyb** (contention): Meaning **a contest (personal or legal); ...strife**, this is the direct outcome of a fool's speech. A fool's lips "enter into **contention**," which in turn calls for strokes [[Proverbs 18:6]].
* `{{H8201}}` **shepheṭ** (judgments): This term for **a sentence, i.e. infliction; judgment** is paired with "stripes" `{{H4112}}`, indicating that these blows are a form of just penalty [[Proverbs 19:29]]. God executes such **judgments** against those who oppose him [[Exodus 12:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4112}}` is centered on the principle of cause and effect in moral and spiritual life.
* **Consequence of Foolish Speech:** The word starkly illustrates that words have tangible consequences. A fool's mouth `{{H6310}}` and lips `{{H8193}}` lead directly to strife `{{H7379}}` and call for physical "strokes" [[Proverbs 18:6]].
* **Justice for Foolishness:** The "stripes" are presented as a prepared and deserved punishment. They are explicitly for the back `{{H1460}}` of fools `{{H3684}}` and are set alongside judgments `{{H8201}}` for scorners `{{H3887}}`, framing them as an instrument of order and discipline [[Proverbs 19:29]].
* **The Inevitable Outcome:** The use of `{{H4112}}` serves as a warning. It shows that the path of the fool—characterized by contentious talk and a scorning attitude—inevitably leads to painful consequences.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4112}}`, **mahălummâh**, is a specific term for a "blow" or "stroke" that functions as a consequence. Though rare, its use in Proverbs provides a powerful illustration of biblical wisdom principles. It demonstrates that foolishness, particularly contentious speech and a scorning heart, naturally invites judgment and physical suffering. The word serves as a sober reminder that actions and attitudes have direct and unavoidable outcomes.
TRV