### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mappeleth**, represented by `{{H4658}}`, describes a **fall**, **ruin**, or **carcase**. It appears **8 times** across **8 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from the root word for 'to fall', `{{H5307}}`, it signifies a state of complete collapse, whether it is the finality of a carcase or the total downfall of a powerful entity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4658}}` is used most prominently in the prophecies of Ezekiel to describe the catastrophic ruin of nations. The **fall** of a great power is portrayed as an event so significant that it causes other nations to shake and tremble in fear ([[Ezekiel 31:16]], [[Ezekiel 32:10]]). This downfall is presented as a consequence of wickedness, with the righteous promised that they will see the **fall** of the wicked [[Proverbs 29:16]]. The word also has a concrete meaning, referring to a physical **ruin** [[Ezekiel 31:13]] or even the specific **carcase** of a lion [[Judges 14:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illustrate the cause and effect surrounding a **mappeleth**:
* `{{H5307}}` **nâphal** (to fall): As the primitive root, this word signifies the direct action of falling, perishing, or being overthrown, which results in the state of **mappeleth**.
* `{{H3381}}` **yârad** (to descend, bring down): This verb often describes the divine action that causes the **mappeleth**. God actively casts down or brings down powers into the pit [[Ezekiel 31:16]].
* `{{H7493}}` **râʻash** (to shake, tremble): This word describes the cosmic reaction to a **mappeleth**. The sound of a nation's fall is so great that it causes the isles to **shake** [[Ezekiel 26:15]].
* `{{H2729}}` **chârad** (to tremble): This conveys the intense fear and anxiety felt by those who witness a mighty downfall. On the day of a nation's fall, the isles **tremble** and are troubled at its departure [[Ezekiel 26:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4658}}` is centered on the finality of divine judgment.
* **Sovereign Judgment:** The term is used to depict God’s absolute power over nations. The **fall** of proud kings and cities like Tyrus is not an accident of history but a direct result of God’s judgment, which causes slaughter `{{H2027}}` in their midst [[Ezekiel 26:15]].
* **The Impact of Collapse:** A **mappeleth** is never an isolated event. Its occurrence sends shockwaves, causing other kings to be **horribly afraid** `{{H8175}}` and whole peoples to be amazed and tremble for their own lives [[Ezekiel 32:10]].
* **Concrete and Figurative Ruin:** The word connects the figurative downfall of a power with its literal, physical end. A proud tree-like kingdom is brought to **ruin**, and upon that ruin, the fowls of heaven remain [[Ezekiel 31:13]], illustrating a complete and desolate end.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4658}}` is a potent term for ultimate collapse and ruin. It illustrates the final state that results from being cast down by a higher power, whether referring to the physical **carcase** of an animal or the complete, fear-inducing **fall** of a nation. Its use in scripture serves as a stark depiction of the consequences of pride and the awesome finality of divine judgment.
TRV