### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun H4695 (מַצּוּת, transliterated as *matstsûwth*) denotes a "quarrel" or "contention." It is derived from the verbal root `{{H5327}}` (נָצָה, *natsah*), which carries the primary meaning "to contend, strive, quarrel, or fight." As a noun, matstsûwth therefore signifies the active state or outcome of such contention. Its semantic range encompasses notions of dispute, strife, argument, and an adversarial confrontation, often implying a verbal battle that can escalate to physical conflict. Unlike a mere disagreement, matstsûwth suggests an engagement marked by hostility and a desire to prevail.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term H4695 (מַצּוּת, *matstsûwth*) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in [[Proverbs 18:6]]. This singular occurrence is highly significant for understanding its precise nuance within the biblical wisdom tradition:
* [[Proverbs 18:6]]: "A fool's lips enter into contention, and his mouth calls for blows." (ESV)
* In this proverb, matstsûwth is directly linked to the "lips" and "mouth" of a "fool" (אֱוִיל, *'ĕwîl*). The fool's speech is not merely foolish, but actively provocative, leading directly into "contention" (matstsûwth). The subsequent phrase, "and his mouth calls for blows," reveals the severe consequence of such contention – it escalates to physical violence or severe punishment. This verse powerfully illustrates that matstsûwth is not an accidental outcome but a direct, destructive result of irresponsible and foolish speech. It highlights the profound connection between words and their capacity to sow discord and invite harm.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding matstsûwth is enhanced by examining its relationship to other Hebrew terms and concepts:
* **Root Verb:** The most immediate connection is to its root, `{{H5327}}` (נָצָה, *natsah*), meaning "to contend, strive, quarrel." This verb is used in contexts ranging from legal disputes to physical fights.
* **Synonyms for Strife/Contention:**
* `{{H4066}}` (מָדוֹן, *madon*): A very common word in Proverbs for "contention" or "strife," often associated with quarreling and discord within families or communities ([[Proverbs 17:1]], [[Proverbs 21:9]]).
* `{{H7379}}` (רִיב, *riv*): Means "strife, dispute, lawsuit," often referring to a legal or judicial contention ([[Genesis 13:7]], [[Exodus 17:2]]).
* `{{H6229}}` (עָקָה, *'aqah*): "Trouble, distress," sometimes resulting from contention.
* **Antonyms/Opposite Concepts:**
* `{{H7965}}` (שָׁלוֹם, *shalom*): "Peace, wholeness, well-being," the antithesis of strife.
* `{{H2451}}` (חָכְמָה, *chokmah*): "Wisdom," which fosters peace and avoids contention ([[Proverbs 10:19]]).
* **Thematic Connections:** The concept of matstsûwth is deeply embedded in the biblical wisdom tradition's emphasis on the power of speech, the discernment between wisdom and folly, and the pursuit of harmonious relationships. It stands in stark contrast to the divine call for unity and love.
### Theological Significance
Though matstsûwth appears only once, its placement in the book of Proverbs gives it significant theological weight within the wisdom literature. It underscores several crucial theological principles:
1. **The Destructive Nature of Foolish Speech:** The direct link between a fool's lips and matstsûwth reveals the theological conviction that words are not neutral. They possess immense power to build up or tear down. Foolish, uncontrolled, or malicious speech is not merely impolite; it is inherently destructive, leading to discord and violence. This aligns with broader biblical warnings against gossip, slander, and divisive talk ([[Proverbs 6:16-19]], [[James 3:5-6]]).
2. **God's Desire for Peace and Order:** The negative portrayal of matstsûwth implies God's preference for peace (shalom), harmony, and order within human relationships and society. Contention disrupts God's intended design for community and reflects a departure from His character, which is one of peace and reconciliation. The New Testament similarly condemns strife as a "work of the flesh" ([[Galatians 5:19-21]]) and exhorts believers to pursue peace ([[Romans 12:18]]).
3. **The Consequence of Folly:** matstsûwth is presented as an inevitable consequence of folly. The fool, by nature, lacks the wisdom and self-control to manage their words, thereby inviting strife and its painful repercussions. This highlights a core theme in Proverbs: righteous living leads to blessing, while folly leads to suffering and destruction.
### Summary
The Hebrew word H4695 (מַצּוּת, *matstsûwth*) precisely denotes "contention" or "a quarrel," deriving from the verb `{{H5327}}` (נָצָה, *natsah*), "to contend." Its singular, yet potent, appearance in [[Proverbs 18:6]] serves as a profound warning within the biblical wisdom tradition. It illustrates how the uncontrolled and foolish speech of an individual directly precipitates strife, which can then escalate to physical harm. Theologically, matstsûwth represents a state contrary to God's desire for peace and harmony, serving as a stark reminder of the destructive power of words and the severe consequences of folly in human interactions.
TRV