### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mêphîyts**, represented by `{{H4650}}`, is defined as **a breaker, i.e. mallet; maul**. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its sole use is as a powerful metaphor to describe the destructive force of a person who gives false testimony.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{H4650}}` is in [[Proverbs 25:18]], which states, "A man that beareth false witness against his neighbour is a **maul**, and a sword, and a sharp arrow." In this context, the word is not a literal weapon but part of a trio of destructive implements. It illustrates that a person who lies about another inflicts a kind of blunt, crushing damage, akin to being struck by a mallet. The proverb powerfully equates the harm of slander with severe physical violence.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context in [[Proverbs 25:18]] help clarify its meaning:
* `{{H2719}}` **chereb** (sword): Defined as "a cutting instrument," this word is used in parallel with **maul** to describe the sharp, cutting damage that false testimony can cause [[Proverbs 25:18]].
* `{{H2671}}` **chêts** (arrow): This word for "a piercer, i.e. an arrow," completes the triad of weaponry. It suggests that lies can wound from a distance, just as a sharp arrow strikes its target [[Proverbs 25:18]].
* `{{H8267}}` **sheqer** (falsehood): This term, meaning "an untruth," is the foundational concept that gives the weapons their context. The witness is not just a witness, but a **false** one, which is why he is compared to a maul [[Proverbs 25:18]].
* `{{H7453}}` **rêaʻ** (neighbour): This word for "an associate... friend... neighbour" identifies the victim. The destructive act is committed against a member of one's own community, highlighting the relational betrayal [[Proverbs 25:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4650}}` is concentrated entirely in its figurative use. It serves as a stark illustration of the destructive power of words.
* **The Violence of Lies:** By equating a **false** (`{{H8267}}`) **witness** (`{{H5707}}`) with a **maul**, scripture frames dishonest speech not as a minor offense but as an act of brutal violence against a **neighbour** (`{{H7453}}`).
* **Crushing Impact:** While a sword cuts and an arrow pierces, a **maul** suggests a crushing, devastating force. This implies that false testimony can shatter a person's reputation, livelihood, or spirit in a way that is total and blunt.
* **Violation of Commandment:** This imagery reinforces the gravity of the commandment against bearing false witness, showing the real-world harm it inflicts [[Exodus 20:16]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4650}}` is a highly specific term used once to create a lasting image of the damage caused by deceit. While a literal **maul** is a tool for breaking things, its metaphorical use in [[Proverbs 25:18]] teaches that words can be weapons. A false witness does not merely speak an untruth; he wields the crushing force of a maul, the cutting edge of a sword, and the piercing point of an arrow against his fellow man.
TRV