### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **maʻal**, represented by `{{H4604}}`, denotes **treachery**, **transgression**, or **trespass**. It is derived from the root `{{H4603}}` and appears **29 times** in **29 unique verses**. The term carries the strong connotation of a breach of trust or a covert, treacherous act, often committed against God or the covenant community. It can also be translated as **falsehood** or used idiomatically to mean grievously or sore.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H4604}}` is used to describe specific, consequential acts of unfaithfulness. It is famously used for the sin of Achan, who "committed a **trespass**" by taking the accursed thing, which kindled the Lord's anger against all of Israel [[Joshua 7:1]]. The term also defines the fatal error of King Saul, who "died for his **transgression** which he committed against the LORD" by disobeying His word [[1 Chronicles 10:13]]. The concept extends to national unfaithfulness, as seen when the people were carried away to Babylon for their **transgression** [[1 Chronicles 9:1]] and when leaders were "chief in this **trespass**" of intermarrying with foreign peoples [[Ezra 9:2]]. It even describes unfaithfulness in marriage, where a wife commits a **trespass** against her husband [[Numbers 5:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{H4604}}` by providing context for the act and its consequences:
* `{{H4603}}` **mâʻal**: This is the primitive root from which `{{H4604}}` is derived. It means "to act covertly, i.e. treacherously" and is the verb form that describes the act of committing a **trespass**, as seen in the phrase "in his **trespass** that he hath trespassed" [[Ezekiel 18:24]].
* `{{H2403}}` **chaṭṭâʼâh**: This word for **sin** or an offence is frequently paired with `{{H4604}}`. It highlights that a **trespass** is a specific category of sin, as when a righteous man turns away and commits iniquity, he dies in his **trespass** and his **sin** [[Ezekiel 18:24]].
* `{{H7110}}` **qetseph**: This term for **wrath** or indignation describes the divine reaction to a **trespass**. Achan's **trespass** `{{H4604}}` in the accursed thing resulted in **wrath** `{{H7110}}` falling upon the entire congregation of Israel [[Joshua 22:20]].
* `{{H817}}` **ʼâshâm**: This word for **guilt** or a **trespass offering** is the prescribed remedy for certain trespasses. When a person sins through ignorance and commits a **trespass** `{{H4604}}`, they are required to bring a **trespass offering** `{{H817}}` to the LORD [[Leviticus 5:15]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4604}}` is centered on the violation of a covenant relationship.
* **Breach of Covenant:** A **trespass** is often defined as an act directly against God. In [[Leviticus 6:2]], lying or theft is framed as committing a **trespass** against the LORD. The tribes east of the Jordan are challenged about their altar, being asked, "What **trespass** is this that ye have committed against the God of Israel?" [[Joshua 22:16]].
* **Corporate Consequences:** The **trespass** of a single individual can bring judgment upon the entire community. Achan's sin led to defeat for Israel's army and divine wrath on the congregation ([[Joshua 7:1]], [[Joshua 22:20]]). Similarly, the **trespass** at Peor resulted in a **plague** `{{H4046}}` among the congregation [[Numbers 31:16]].
* **Individual Accountability:** While a **trespass** can have corporate effects, the ultimate responsibility lies with the one who commits it. When a righteous man turns to commit a **trespass** `{{H4604}}`, his previous righteousness is not mentioned, and he will die for his sin [[Ezekiel 18:24]]. This underscores the gravity of betraying one's commitment to God.
* **Cause for Exile and Shame:** The trespasses of the people are cited as the direct cause for their exile to Babylon and the resulting "confusion of faces" ([[1 Chronicles 9:1]], [[Daniel 9:7]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4604}}` **maʻal** is a term that signifies more than a simple mistake; it is a deliberate and serious act of **treachery** and unfaithfulness. It defines a breach of sacred trust, whether against God, the nation, or within a family. The use of this word underscores the profound seriousness of covenant violation in scripture, illustrating how such acts of **trespass** provoke divine judgment and carry devastating consequences for both individuals and the community.
TRV