### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mᵉrutsâh**, represented by `{{H4835}}`, is a term for **violence**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its singular appearance highlights a specific and severe form of wrongdoing condemned in scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H4835}}` is found in a stark warning in [[Jeremiah 22:17]]. In this passage, the word for **violence** is part of a list of transgressions that have corrupted the **heart** `{{H3820}}` and **eyes** `{{H5869}}` of the subject. It is directly associated with **covetousness** `{{H1215}}`, the shedding of **innocent** `{{H5355}}` **blood** `{{H1818}}`, and **oppression** `{{H6233}}`, painting a comprehensive picture of profound moral decay to be done `{{H6213}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to define the context of `{{H4835}}`:
* `{{H6233}}` **ʻôsheq** (oppression): Defined as **injury, fraud, ... extortion, oppression**, this term is used in parallel with `{{H4835}}` in [[Jeremiah 22:17]]. It highlights the injustice and injury inherent in violent acts, which are often linked to extortion [[Ezekiel 22:12]].
* `{{H1215}}` **betsaʻ** (covetousness): This term for **unjust gain** or **profit** is presented as a core motivation for the violence. [[Jeremiah 22:17]] states that the eyes and heart are set on **covetousness**, which leads to violent actions. Its corrupting influence is a recurring theme, with prophets and priests alike being "given to **covetousness**" [[Jeremiah 6:13]].
* `{{H8210}}` **shâphak** (to shed): This verb, meaning **to spill forth (blood)**, describes the physical act of violence. Its use in the phrase "to **shed** innocent blood" [[Jeremiah 22:17]] gives a concrete and grave outcome to the intent for violence. The gravity of this act is established early in scripture [[Genesis 9:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4835}}` is understood through its singular, powerful context in [[Jeremiah 22:17]].
* **Internal Corruption:** The passage links **violence** not just to actions, but to the **eyes** `{{H5869}}` and the **heart** `{{H3820}}`. This indicates that violence is the outward expression of an internally corrupt state, a will and desire oriented toward evil. The **heart** is described in scripture as the source from which life's issues flow [[Proverbs 4:23]].
* **A Web of Iniquity:** `{{H4835}}` does not appear in isolation. It is listed alongside **covetousness** `{{H1215}}`, the shedding of **innocent** `{{H5355}}` **blood** `{{H1818}}`, and **oppression** `{{H6233}}`. This demonstrates a biblical principle where sins are interconnected, with greed leading to exploitation and ultimately to violent acts.
* **Target of Divine Judgment:** The condemnation in Jeremiah 22 frames **violence** as a grave offense that provokes God's judgment. The entire verse serves as an indictment, listing the reasons for impending punishment, thereby marking `{{H4835}}` as a serious transgression against God's law.
### Summary
In summary, while **mᵉrutsâh** `{{H4835}}` is one of the rarest words in the Hebrew Bible, its single appearance in [[Jeremiah 22:17]] is profoundly instructive. It defines **violence** not as an isolated event, but as the culmination of a heart set on **covetousness** and **oppression**. By being listed with the shedding of innocent blood, it is marked as a severe sin that reveals a complete disregard for divine and human values, drawing certain judgment from God.
TRV