### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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