The Hebrew word mûwq, represented by H4167, is a primitive root used to mean to jeer, i.e. (intens.) blaspheme; be corrupt. This specific term is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible, giving its single usage significant weight.
The sole appearance of H4167 is in Psalms 73:8, where it describes the foundational character of the wicked. The verse states, "They are corrupt, and speak wickedly concerning oppression: they speak loftily." Here, the state of being corrupt is presented as the source from which wicked and arrogant speech flows. It is not just an action but the very nature of the individuals described, a moral decay that precedes and produces their oppressive words.
Several related words in its only context illuminate the meaning of H4167:
- H7451 raʻ (wickedly): This word, meaning bad or (as noun) evil, describes the character of the speech that stems from the corruption of H4167. It is used elsewhere to warn against repaying evil Proverbs 20:22.
- H6233 ʻôsheq (oppression): This term, defined as injury, fraud, (subjectively) distress, (concretely) unjust gain, is the specific subject of the corrupt speech. The Bible directly links this with deceitful words, as in "speaking oppression and revolt" Isaiah 59:13.
- H1696 dâbar (speak): This root for to speak appears twice in the verse, emphasizing that the inner corruption is made manifest through words. The finality of what the LORD has spoken Isaiah 25:8 stands in stark contrast to the worthless speech of the corrupt.
- H4791 mârôwm (loftily): Meaning altitude...elation, or adverbially (aloft), this word describes the arrogant posture of their speech. This contrasts with God, who dwells on high but is with the humble in spirit Isaiah 57:15.
The theological weight of H4167 is concentrated in its single, powerful usage.
- The Root of Sin: The term establishes a critical theological sequence: a state of inner corruption (mûwq) is the direct source of sinful, outward expression. The problem is not merely the words but the decayed heart from which they originate.
- Corruption and Arrogant Speech: In Psalms 73:8, being corrupt is inextricably linked to speaking "loftily" about "oppression." It highlights a specific sin where arrogance and a desire to harm others are voiced from a position of moral rot.
- A Singular Warning: The rarity of H4167 makes its appearance a potent condemnation. It serves as a focused biblical marker for a state of being so decayed that its very essence is expressed through mocking, oppressive, and blasphemous language.
In summary, H4167 is a highly specific term that, while appearing only once, provides a crucial insight into the nature of wickedness. It defines a state of being corrupt that serves as the wellspring for evil. Its use in Psalms 73:8 illustrates that wicked and oppressive speech is not a momentary lapse but the natural outflow of a deeply compromised moral character, a warning that the root of sin lies within the heart.
TRV