### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mahpêkâh**, represented by `{{H4114}}`, means **a destruction** or **overthrow**. It is derived from the word הָפַךְ (hâphak). According to usage statistics, it appears **6 times** in **6 unique verses** in the Bible. The term is consistently used to describe a complete and catastrophic destruction, often referencing a specific, definitive act of God.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4114}}` is almost exclusively used to refer to the divine destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, which serves as a benchmark for total desolation. This event is cited as a warning and a metaphor for the judgment that will befall other nations and lands. In Deuteronomy, the utter ruin of the land is described as "like the **overthrow** of Sodom, and Gomorrah" [[Deuteronomy 29:23]]. The prophets also use this event to foretell the fate of great powers, stating that Babylon "shall be as when God **overthrew** Sodom and Gomorrah" [[Isaiah 13:19]]. The term is also applied to the desolation of a land ravaged by foreign invaders, making it "as **overthrown** by strangers" [[Isaiah 1:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a deeper context for the concept of overthrow and divine judgment:
* `{{H2015}}` **hâphak**: This is the primitive root from which `{{H4114}}` is derived, meaning **to turn about or over**, **change**, or **overturn**. While it is used for the LORD's overthrow of cities [[Deuteronomy 29:23]], it also describes positive transformations, such as turning mourning into dancing [[Psalms 30:11]] or a curse into a blessing [[Deuteronomy 23:5]].
* `{{H5467}}` **Çᵉdôm**: This word for **Sodom** is mentioned in every occurrence of `{{H4114}}`. It stands as the primary symbol of wickedness deserving of overthrow. The iniquity of Sodom is characterized as pride and abundance of idleness, as they did not help the poor and needy [[Ezekiel 16:49]].
* `{{H6017}}` **ʻĂmôrâh**: Meaning **Gomorrah**, this word is always paired with Sodom in the context of `{{H4114}}`. Together, they represent a complete societal corruption that warrants total destruction, becoming a reference point for comparing the wickedness of others, such as the prophets of Jerusalem [[Jeremiah 23:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4114}}` is centered on the theme of divine retribution against sin.
* **The Archetype of Judgment:** The "overthrow" of Sodom and Gomorrah is established as the definitive example of God's wrath against unrepentant wickedness. This act is repeatedly referenced to warn Israel and other nations of the consequences of their actions ([[Amos 4:11]], [[Jeremiah 50:40]]).
* **A Measure of Desolation:** The word signifies an absolute and irreversible ruin that leaves a land completely uninhabitable. This is vividly depicted in the description of a land of brimstone and salt where nothing grows, "like the overthrow of Sodom" [[Deuteronomy 29:23]].
* **Prophetic Warning:** `{{H4114}}` is used by prophets to communicate the severity of future judgments. The fate of Edom [[Jeremiah 49:18]] and Babylon [[Isaiah 13:19]] is explicitly compared to this ultimate overthrow, emphasizing that no man will be able to dwell there afterward.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4114}}` is a potent and specific term for destruction. It is not a general term for ruin but refers to a complete, divinely executed **overthrow** that serves as a permanent biblical symbol of judgment. Its consistent connection to Sodom and Gomorrah cements its meaning as the ultimate standard for desolation resulting from God's wrath against sin, a warning that echoes through the prophetic writings.
TRV