### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term mardûwth (`{{H4780}}`) is a noun derived from the verbal root mārad (`{{H4775}}`), which signifies "to rebel," "to revolt," or "to be rebellious." Consequently, mardûwth carries the core meaning of "rebelliousness," "insubordination," or "a state of rebellion." It describes the inherent quality or disposition of being rebellious, rather than a singular act of rebellion, though it certainly implies the tendency towards such acts. This word encapsulates a deep-seated attitude of opposition to established authority, whether human or divine. Its semantic range emphasizes the nature of being prone to resistance and defiance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word mardûwth (`{{H4780}}`) appears only once in the Masoretic Text, found in the book of Ezra:
* **[[Ezra 4:15]]**: "that it is a rebellious city and harmful to kings and provinces, and that rebellion (מַרְדּוּת) has been stirred up within it from ancient times; that is why this city was laid waste."
In this sole occurrence, mardûwth is found within a letter written by the adversaries of the Jews to King Artaxerxes. They accuse Jerusalem of being a "rebellious city" (קִרְיָה מָרָדָא, an Aramaic phrase preceding the Hebrew mardûwth in the verse), asserting that a spirit of "rebellion" has characterized the city throughout its history, leading to its previous destruction. The use of mardûwth here emphasizes the deep-rooted, persistent nature of this rebelliousness, presenting it as an intrinsic quality that makes Jerusalem a perpetual threat to imperial stability and authority. While the accusation itself is politically motivated and likely exaggerated, it underscores how deeply the characteristic of "rebelliousness" was perceived as a destabilizing force.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of mardûwth (`{{H4780}}`) is best understood in conjunction with its verbal root and other related terms that convey concepts of defiance and insubordination:
* **mārad (`{{H4775}}`)**: The primary verbal root meaning "to rebel, revolt, be rebellious." This verb is frequently used in both secular and theological contexts, such as [[Numbers 14:9]] (do not rebel against the Lord) or [[Joshua 22:19]] (do not rebel against the Lord).
* **meri (מֶרִי, `{{H4805}}`)**: A noun meaning "rebellion" or "stubbornness," often used to describe Israel's resistance to God, as in [[Ezekiel 2:5]] (a rebellious house).
* **pasha (פָּשַׁע, `{{H6586}}`)**: A common verb meaning "to transgress, rebel, revolt." It often refers to rebellion against God's law or covenant, as seen in [[Isaiah 1:2]] (they have rebelled against me).
* **sarar (סָרַר, `{{H5637}}`)**: Meaning "to be stubborn, rebellious, unruly." This term frequently appears alongside meri to describe a persistent, unyielding resistance, e.g., [[Psalm 78:8]] (a stubborn and rebellious generation).
These related words collectively paint a comprehensive picture of rebellion, ranging from specific acts to an ingrained disposition of opposition to rightful authority, whether human or divine.
### Theological Significance
Although mardûwth (`{{H4780}}`) itself appears only once in a seemingly political context, its deep connection to the root mārad (`{{H4775}}`) and the broader semantic field of rebellion holds profound theological significance in the biblical narrative. Rebellion against legitimate authority, especially divine authority, is consistently portrayed as a grave offense and a fundamental deviation from God's intended order.
From the very beginning, human history is marked by mardûwth in its various forms. The Fall in [[Genesis 3]] can be understood as humanity's primal act of rebellion against God's command. Throughout the wilderness wanderings, Israel's repeated acts of rebellion against Yahweh's leadership and laws demonstrate a pervasive mardûwth that continually tested God's patience and faithfulness. This disposition signifies a rejection of covenant relationship, divine sovereignty, and the very foundation of God's righteous rule.
Theologically, rebellion is not merely disobedience but an assertion of self-will against the Creator's will, a profound act of unfaithfulness. God's response to such mardûwth is often judgment and discipline, yet it is consistently tempered by persistent grace, calls to repentance, and the offer of restoration for those who turn from their rebellious ways. The concept underscores the vital importance of obedience, submission to God's will, and unwavering faithfulness as core tenets of a right relationship with the Divine.
### Summary
The Hebrew word mardûwth (`{{H4780}}`) denotes "rebelliousness" or a "state of rebellion," directly stemming from the root mārad (`{{H4775}}`). Its singular biblical occurrence in [[Ezra 4:15]] describes Jerusalem as a city characterized by an inherent and historical tendency toward rebellion against imperial rule, highlighting the perceived danger of such a disposition. While rare, mardûwth encapsulates a crucial theological concept: the deep-seated human inclination to resist legitimate authority, particularly God's. Related terms like mārad (`{{H4775}}`), meri (`{{H4805}}`), and pasha (`{{H6586}}`) further illuminate the pervasive nature and dire consequences of rebellion throughout the biblical narrative. Theologically, mardûwth represents a fundamental rejection of divine sovereignty and covenant faithfulness, leading to separation and judgment, but also serving as a backdrop for God's enduring call to repentance and offer of redemptive grace.
TRV