### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun מַחְשֹׂף (machsôph, `{{H4286}}`) is derived from the verbal root חָשַׂף (chasaph, `{{H2834}}`), which means "to strip, uncover, lay bare, or expose." As a noun, machsôph denotes the *act* or *result* of this process, specifically "a peeling" or that which has been "made appear" through uncovering. It conveys the idea of revealing something previously concealed or covered, often by removing an outer layer. The emphasis lies on the revelation of what lies beneath, bringing it into full view.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term מַחְשֹׂף (machsôph, `{{H4286}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in [[Jeremiah 13:26]]. This single occurrence is within a prophetic oracle of judgment delivered by Jeremiah against the people of Judah for their deep-seated idolatry and unfaithfulness to the covenant.
The full verse reads: "Therefore I will strip your skirts over your face, and your shame will be seen, your utter disgrace." (NIV translation, though the KJV renders the last phrase as "the uncovering of thy face"). The Hebrew phrase in question is "מַחְשֹׂף פָּנַיִךְ" (machsôph panayich), which literally translates to "the uncovering of your face" or "the exposing of your face."
In this context, the "uncovering of your face" is not a literal physical act but a powerful, graphic metaphor for extreme public humiliation and disgrace. The preceding imagery of "stripping skirts over the face" was a common ancient Near Eastern motif for the public shaming and exposure of captives or prostitutes, signifying utter vulnerability and loss of dignity. The addition of machsôph panayich intensifies this imagery, emphasizing that Judah's disgrace will be complete, unavoidable, and fully revealed. It signifies that all pretense and covering will be removed, and their true, shameful condition will be made utterly manifest.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **חָשׂף (chasaph, `{{H2834}}`):** The root verb from which machsôph is derived. This verb is used in various contexts, including exposing nakedness ([[Isaiah 3:17]]), uncovering the foundations of a building ([[Habakkuk 3:13]]), or drawing water from a well ([[Ecclesiastes 2:19]]). The noun machsôph precisely captures the outcome or state of being exposed.
* **עֶרְוָה (ervah, `{{H6172}}`):** This noun refers to nakedness or shame, often the direct result of an "uncovering." Its conceptual link to machsôph lies in the state of vulnerability and dishonor that follows exposure.
* **קָלוֹן (qalon, `{{H7036}}`):** Meaning "shame, disgrace, or dishonor." This word explicitly appears in the same verse as machsôph ([[Jeremiah 13:26]]), serving as a direct consequence and synonym for the "uncovering" that God will bring upon Judah.
* **Divine Judgment and Exposure:** The concept of God "uncovering" or "exposing" the sins and shame of individuals or nations is a recurring theme in prophetic literature, particularly in judgment oracles ([[Isaiah 47:3]], [[Ezekiel 16:37]]). This highlights God's role as the ultimate revealer of truth and executor of justice.
### Theological Significance
The singular yet potent use of מַחְשֹׂף (machsôph, `{{H4286}}`) in [[Jeremiah 13:26]] carries profound theological implications. It underscores the *inescapable nature of divine judgment* when a people, like Judah, persistently engage in covenant unfaithfulness and idolatry. The act of God "uncovering" their "face" signifies that there will be no hiding place, no way to conceal their spiritual nakedness and moral degradation.
This divine action is not merely a passive consequence but an active, deliberate work of God to bring their hidden shame into the public light. It serves as a stark reminder of God's attribute as the One who sees all and will ultimately bring every secret thing, whether good or evil, into judgment ([[Ecclesiastes 12:14]]). For Judah, this exposure was a severe pronouncement of the humiliation and desolation that awaited them, a stripping away of all false security and pretense, leaving them utterly vulnerable before God and the nations. It is a testament to God's justice and His commitment to holding His people accountable for their rebellion.
### Summary
מַחְשֹׂף (machsôph, `{{H4286}}`) is a rare but impactful Hebrew noun derived from חָשַׂף (chasaph, `{{H2834}}`), signifying "a peeling" or that which is "made appear" through uncovering. Its sole occurrence in [[Jeremiah 13:26]] is within a severe prophetic judgment against Judah. Here, "the uncovering of your face" is a powerful metaphor for total public humiliation and disgrace, emphasizing God's active role in exposing the profound shame resulting from Judah's idolatry and unfaithfulness. The word underscores the inescapable nature of divine judgment, where all pretense is stripped away, and the true, degraded state of the people is laid bare, highlighting God's sovereignty in revealing truth and executing justice.
TRV