a primitive root; properly, to cover up; used only figuratively, to act covertly, i.e. treacherously; transgress, (commit, do a) trespass(-ing).
Transliteration:mâʻal
Pronunciation:maw-al'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew root `{{H4603}}` (mâʻal) is a primitive verb whose core meaning is "to cover up" or "to act covertly." This foundational sense extends figuratively to denote an act of unfaithfulness, treachery, or breach of trust. It is not merely a general sin (`{{H2398}}`), but a specific kind of transgression characterized by a deliberate violation of a sacred obligation, a covenant, or a relationship, often implying an element of deceit or hidden wrongdoing. The act of "covering up" manifests not necessarily as physical concealment, but as a hidden disloyalty or a surreptitious betrayal of trust. Thus, mâʻal describes a trespass that involves a profound breach of fidelity, particularly in matters pertaining to God, His commands, or His consecrated things.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{H4603}}` appears frequently in the Old Testament, predominantly in legal and historical texts, highlighting its significance in covenantal contexts. Its usage consistently points to a violation of trust or an act of unfaithfulness.
In the Pentateuch, especially in Leviticus and Numbers, mâʻal often refers to a trespass against the Lord concerning holy things or consecrated offerings. For instance, [[Leviticus 5:15]] speaks of one who "commits a trespass (mâʻal) against the Lord by acting unfaithfully in the holy things of the Lord." This underscores the sacrilegious nature of such a sin, impacting the very relationship with the divine. Similarly, [[Numbers 5:6-8]] describes mâʻal as a "trespass against a person, acting unfaithfully to the Lord," requiring restitution and a trespass offering. Here, the offense against a human is simultaneously an offense against God, demonstrating the pervasive nature of the covenant.
In historical narratives, mâʻal describes significant acts of national or individual unfaithfulness. A prime example is Achan's sin in [[Joshua 7:1]], where he "acted unfaithfully (mâʻal) regarding the devoted things," leading to severe consequences for the entire community. This illustrates the corporate dimension of mâʻal, where the hidden treachery of one can bring divine judgment upon many. King Saul's disobedience is also described as mâʻal in [[1 Chronicles 10:13]] for his failure to keep the word of the Lord, resulting in the loss of his kingdom and his death.
Later prophetic and wisdom literature also employs mâʻal to depict Israel's spiritual adultery and idolatry against God. [[Ezekiel 14:13]] states, "Son of man, when a land sins against me by acting faithlessly (mâʻal)," referring to the nation's rebellion. This highlights the deep theological implications of mâʻal as a betrayal of the covenant relationship, akin to marital infidelity.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of `{{H4603}}` (mâʻal) overlaps with, yet is distinct from, other Hebrew terms for sin:
* `{{H2398}}` (chata'): This is a general term for "sin," meaning "to miss the mark." mâʻal is a specific *type* of chata, characterized by unfaithfulness or treachery.
* `{{H6586}}` (pasha'): This refers to "transgression" or "rebellion," often implying a more overt or deliberate breaking of a law or covenant. While mâʻal can be a form of pasha, mâʻal emphasizes the breach of trust and often a covert nature, whereas pasha can be open defiance.
* `{{H5771}}` (avon): This term signifies "iniquity" or "guilt," focusing on the perversity or distortion of the act and the resulting guilt. mâʻal is the act itself that incurs avon.
Key concepts related to mâʻal include:
* **Covenant (`{{H1285}}` - berit):** mâʻal is fundamentally a breach of covenant, whether between God and His people or between individuals.
* **Holiness (`{{H6944}}` - qodesh):** Many instances of mâʻal involve profaning or misusing holy things, demonstrating the gravity of violating sacred boundaries.
* **Faithfulness/Trust (`{{H530}}` - emunah):** mâʻal stands in direct opposition to faithfulness, representing a betrayal of trust.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H4603}}` (mâʻal) is profound, revealing critical aspects of God's character, human sinfulness, and the nature of the covenant.
1. **God's Expectation of Fidelity:** The frequent use of mâʻal underscores God's absolute expectation of loyalty and faithfulness from His people. As a covenant-making God, He demands exclusive devotion and adherence to His commands. mâʻal represents a direct affront to His holiness and His covenantal love.
2. **The Gravity of Unfaithfulness:** mâʻal is portrayed as a particularly heinous sin because it strikes at the heart of relationship and trust. It is not merely an accidental error but a deliberate act of betrayal, often with an element of deceit or disregard for sacred obligations. This makes it distinct from other forms of sin and often requires specific atonement (e.g., the trespass offering).
3. **Corporate Responsibility:** The impact of mâʻal often extends beyond the individual, affecting the entire community. Achan's sin ([[Joshua 7]]) is the quintessential example, where one man's unfaithfulness brought defeat and divine wrath upon all Israel. This highlights the interconnectedness of the covenant community and the shared responsibility for maintaining fidelity.
4. **Need for Atonement:** The provisions for trespass offerings in the Mosaic Law for mâʻal (e.g., [[Leviticus 5:14-19]], [[Numbers 5:6-8]]) emphasize the need for specific atonement to restore the broken relationship with God. This points forward to the ultimate atonement provided through Christ, addressing the deepest breaches of humanity's faithfulness.
### Summary
The Hebrew word `{{H4603}}` (mâʻal) signifies a treacherous act, a profound breach of trust or unfaithfulness, stemming from its root meaning of "to cover up" or "act covertly." It describes a specific type of transgression, often involving the violation of sacred obligations, covenant stipulations, or the profaning of holy things. Biblical occurrences demonstrate its seriousness, revealing it as an offense not only against individuals or community but primarily against God Himself, who demands absolute fidelity from His covenant people. The theological weight of mâʻal underscores the gravity of unfaithfulness, the corporate implications of sin, and the essential need for divine provision and atonement to restore broken relationships with a holy God.
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