### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mâʻal**, represented by `{{H4603}}`, is a primitive root that means to act covertly or treacherously. While its proper meaning is to cover up, it is used figuratively to describe a transgression or trespass. It appears **35 times** across **35 unique verses**, indicating a specific and significant type of offense.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4603}}` describes acts of betrayal against God, individuals, and the community. It is used for the nation of Israel's collective sin, which led to their captivity because they **trespassed** against God [[Ezekiel 39:23]]. It also depicts the specific transgressions of individuals, such as Achan taking the accursed thing [[Joshua 7:1]], Saul's disobedience to the word of the LORD [[1 Chronicles 10:13]], and King Uzziah unlawfully entering the temple to burn incense [[2 Chronicles 26:16]]. The term can also apply to interpersonal relationships, such as a wife who has **done** a trespass against her husband [[Numbers 5:27]] or a person who lies to a neighbor concerning something delivered for safekeeping [[Leviticus 6:2]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and consequences of this treacherous act:
* `{{H4604}}` **maʻal** (treachery, sin): This noun is frequently paired with the verb `{{H4603}}` to describe the act of treachery itself, as in the phrase "in his **trespass** that he hath **trespassed**" [[Ezekiel 18:24]].
* `{{H2403}}` **chaṭṭâʼâh** (sin, sin offering): This word for sin appears alongside `{{H4603}}` to distinguish a general offense from the specific act of trespass, as seen when a righteous man turns away and commits iniquity [[Ezekiel 18:24]].
* `{{H817}}` **ʼâshâm** (guilt, trespass offering): This term denotes the guilt incurred by the trespass and the prescribed sacrifice required to atone for it, particularly for sins committed in ignorance regarding holy things [[Leviticus 5:15]].
* `{{H2764}}` **chêrem** (accursed thing): This refers to a doomed object that is not to be touched. Achan's decision to **commit** a trespass involved taking the **accursed thing**, bringing wrath upon the entire congregation of Israel [[Joshua 22:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4603}}` is significant, highlighting the gravity of betraying a sacred trust.
* **Breach of Covenant:** To **transgress** is to violate the covenant relationship with God. This is seen when Israel's fathers **trespassed** and forsook Him [[2 Chronicles 29:6]], or when they went a whoring after other gods [[1 Chronicles 5:25]]. The consequences of such acts are severe, including being scattered among the nations [[Nehemiah 1:8]].
* **Desecration of Holiness:** The act of trespass often involves the violation of what is holy. This is evident when a soul sins through ignorance in the **holy things** of the LORD [[Leviticus 5:15]] or when the people polluted the house of the LORD in Jerusalem [[2 Chronicles 36:14]].
* **Personal and Corporate Guilt:** A single act of trespass can have devastating consequences for the entire community. Achan's sin led to wrath on all of Israel, showing that one man did not perish alone in his iniquity [[Joshua 22:20]]. The trespass of fathers could also bring about consequences for their children [[Leviticus 26:40]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4603}}` signifies more than a simple mistake; it is a profound act of covert betrayal and treachery. Whether committed by an individual like Saul or an entire nation, it represents a breach of faith against God and His covenant. The severe consequences, ranging from personal death to national exile, underscore the seriousness with which God views such transgressions against His holy name and commands.
TRV