from an unused root of uncertain meaning; perhaps an abyss; deep pit.
Transliteration:mahămôrâh
Pronunciation:mah-ham-o-raw'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma is מַהֲמֹרָה (mahămôrâh), Strong's H4113. Its etymological root is noted as unused and of uncertain meaning, which suggests a degree of obscurity regarding its precise origin. Despite this, the proposed semantic range points towards a vivid and potent image: "perhaps an abyss" or "deep pit." This definition immediately conveys a sense of profound depth, danger, and potential entrapment. The term evokes an image of a chasm or a hole from which ascent or escape would be exceedingly difficult, if not impossible, thus implying a place of ruin or inescapable peril.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term מַהֲמֹרָה (mahămôrâh) is remarkably rare, appearing only once in the entire Hebrew Bible, specifically in the book of Proverbs. Its singular occurrence is found in [[Proverbs 22:14]]: "The mouth of strange women is a deep pit [מַהֲמֹרָה]: he that is abhorred of the LORD shall fall therein."
In this context, the word is used metaphorically to describe the alluring yet destructive nature of the "strange woman" (אִשָּׁה זָרָה), a recurring figure in Proverbs representing the seductress or adulteress who leads men astray from the path of wisdom and righteousness. The "deep pit" serves as a powerful metaphor for the inescapable consequences and ruin that await those who succumb to such temptation. It is not merely a minor stumble, but a descent into a profound and dangerous abyss. The verse explicitly links falling into this "pit" with being "abhorred of the LORD," indicating that such moral transgression incurs divine displeasure and judgment. This highlights the severe spiritual and relational consequences of deviation from God's moral law, emphasizing that the "pit" is a place of both physical and spiritual destruction for those who are spiritually alienated.
### Related Words & Concepts
While מַהֲמֹרָה (mahămôrâh) is unique in its precise form and single occurrence, its semantic field connects it to several other Hebrew terms that describe pits, depths, or places of destruction. These include:
* `{{H953}}` (bor): Often translated as "pit," "cistern," or "dungeon," frequently used for literal pits but also metaphorically for distress or the grave.
* `{{H7845}}` (shachat): Meaning "pit," "destruction," or "corruption," often associated with the grave or Sheol, the realm of the dead.
* `{{H6656}}` (tsulâ): Signifying "deep" or "abyss," often referring to deep waters.
* `{{H8478}}` (tahom): The "deep" or "abyss," particularly in the context of primeval waters or the depths of the earth.
Conceptually, מַהֲמֹרָה (mahămôrâh) is related to themes of danger, traps, snares, ruin, and the inevitable consequences of sin. Its use in Proverbs situates it within the broader wisdom tradition's warnings against folly, immorality, and the path that leads to destruction, contrasting sharply with the path of life and righteousness.
### Theological Significance
Despite its solitary appearance, מַהֲמֹרָה (mahămôrâh) carries significant theological weight within the wisdom literature of the Old Testament. It functions as a potent warning, illustrating the profound and inescapable danger inherent in moral transgression, particularly sexual immorality. The "deep pit" serves as an ultimate symbol of ruin, not merely a minor setback but a descent into a state from which recovery is portrayed as exceedingly difficult, if not divinely prevented.
The association with being "abhorred of the LORD" underscores the severity of the sin and its impact on one's relationship with God. It suggests that falling into this pit is not merely a human error but a consequence of a spiritual condition that has alienated an individual from divine favor. This highlights the biblical understanding that sin, especially that which involves deliberate moral compromise, leads to a state of spiritual peril and judgment. The imagery powerfully reinforces the call to wisdom, discernment, and adherence to God's commandments as the only true safeguard against such destructive forces.
### Summary
The Hebrew word מַהֲמֹרָה (mahămôrâh, H4113) denotes a "deep pit" or "abyss," a term of uncertain etymology yet clear semantic force. Its singular biblical occurrence in [[Proverbs 22:14]] employs it metaphorically to describe the seductive and ultimately destructive nature of the "mouth of strange women." This "deep pit" represents an inescapable trap, leading to ruin and divine displeasure for those who succumb to its allure. The word powerfully conveys the depth and finality of the consequences of sin, particularly moral transgression, serving as a stark warning within the wisdom tradition. It emphasizes the critical importance of choosing the path of righteousness to avoid spiritual and moral destruction, underscoring that straying from God's wisdom leads to a perilous and judgment-laden abyss.
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