### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mardûwth**, represented by `{{H4780}}`, denotes **rebelliousness**. It appears just **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, making its single usage highly specific. It is derived from a root meaning to rebel and is used idiomatically as **rebellious**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H4780}}` is in a moment of intense conflict in [[1 Samuel 20:30]]. King Saul's `{{H7586}}` anger `{{H639}}` is kindled `{{H2734}}` against his son, Jonathan `{{H3083}}`. In his rage, Saul said `{{H559}}` unto him, "Thou son `{{H1121}}` of the perverse `{{H5753}}` **rebellious** woman." This insult aims to shame Jonathan by attributing his perceived treason, choosing `{{H977}}` David `{{H3448}}`, to a flaw in his mother `{{H517}}`. Saul connects Jonathan's actions to his own confusion `{{H1322}}` and the shame of his mother's `{{H517}}` nakedness `{{H6172}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the passage illuminate the context of **rebelliousness**:
* `{{H5753}}` **ʻâvâh** (perverse): This word, meaning "to crook, literally or figuratively," is used to describe the nature of the rebellion Saul perceives. It implies a willful turning from what is right and is associated with those who have a "perverse heart" [[Proverbs 12:8]].
* `{{H2734}}` **chârâh** (kindled): This term describes how anger can "blaze up." It captures the intensity of Saul's emotional reaction, a state where one is warned to "cease from anger" and "fret not thyself in any wise to do evil" [[Psalms 37:8]].
* `{{H1322}}` **bôsheth** (confusion): This word signifies "shame" and is what Saul predicts will be the outcome of Jonathan's loyalty to David. It is often linked to the consequences of trespass and iniquity, as seen in the "confusion of face" experienced by the people for their sins [[Ezra 9:7]].
### Theological Significance
While appearing only once, the theological weight of `{{H4780}}` is found in its potent context.
* **Rebellion and Authority:** The term is used to condemn what a king views as a direct challenge to his paternal and royal authority. Saul's anger `{{H639}}` being "kindled" `{{H2734}}` mirrors language used for the Lord's anger against His disobedient people [[Isaiah 5:25]], framing Jonathan's choice as a serious transgression.
* **Familial Dishonor:** The insult is not aimed at Jonathan `{{H3083}}` alone but also at his mother `{{H517}}`. By calling her "rebellious," Saul links Jonathan's actions to a stain on the entire family line, invoking the shame of his "mother's nakedness" `{{H6172}}`.
* **Sin and Consequence:** Saul connects Jonathan's supposed rebellion directly to a future of "confusion" `{{H1322}}`. This aligns with the broader biblical principle that trespass and have committed iniquity `{{H5753}}` can lead to shame and disgrace ([[Daniel 9:5]], 7).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4780}}` **mardûwth** is a rare but powerful term for **rebelliousness**. Its single appearance in the Bible encapsulates a moment of extreme familial and political tension, where King Saul condemns his son Jonathan. The word is embedded in an insult that highlights the perceived connection between rebellion, perversion `{{H5753}}`, anger `{{H2734}}`, and shame `{{H1322}}`. Though its use is limited, it provides a vivid illustration of how defiance against established authority was viewed as a source of profound dishonor.
TRV