### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nâbâl**, represented by `{{H5036}}`, describes one who is stupid or wicked. It appears **18 times** in **18 unique verses**, consistently carrying a strong negative connotation of moral and spiritual foolishness. The term is translated as **fool**, **foolish**, or **vile person**, pointing to a character that is impious and corrupt.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H5036}}` characterizes a deep-seated rebellion against God. The most direct example is in the Psalms, where the **fool** `{{H5036}}` says in his heart that there is no God, leading to corrupt and abominable works ([[Psalms 14:1]], [[Psalms 53:1]]). The term also describes a collective entity, as when God warns He will provoke Israel with a **foolish** `{{H5036}}` nation [[Deuteronomy 32:21]]. The character of the **vile person** `{{H5036}}` is detailed as one whose heart works iniquity and whose speech is error against the LORD [[Isaiah 32:6]]. In a social context, it is a term of profound shame and disgrace [[2 Samuel 13:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{H5036}}`:
* `{{H5039}}` **nᵉbâlâh** (folly, vile, villany): The direct feminine counterpart to `{{H5036}}`, representing the wicked actions and speech that stem from a foolish heart. A **vile person** `{{H5036}}` is defined by speaking **villany** `{{H5039}}` [[Isaiah 32:6]].
* `{{H3684}}` **kᵉçîyl** (fool, foolish): Another word for a fool, often used in Proverbs to describe one who brings sorrow and lacks wisdom. The father of a **fool** `{{H5036}}` has no joy, a grief echoed in the sorrow caused by a foolish `{{H3684}}` son [[Proverbs 17:21]].
* `{{H2781}}` **cherpâh** (rebuke, reproach(-fully), shame): This highlights the social consequence of being a `{{H5036}}`. The psalmist prays not to be made the **reproach** `{{H2781}}` of the **foolish** `{{H5036}}` [[Psalms 39:8]].
* `{{H5006}}` **nâʼats** (to scorn; abhor, (give occasion to) blaspheme, contemn, despise): This word connects foolishness with the act of blasphemy. The psalmist calls on God to remember how the **foolish** `{{H5036}}` people have **blasphemed** `{{H5006}}` His name [[Psalms 74:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5036}}` is significant, defining a specific type of godlessness.
* **Practical Atheism:** The core of this foolishness is the denial of God's existence and authority, which is the root of moral corruption [[Psalms 14:1]].
* **Active Wickedness:** A **nâbâl** is not merely ignorant but actively works **iniquity** `{{H205}}` and practices **hypocrisy** `{{H2612}}`. Their foolishness manifests in destructive speech and actions against God and man [[Isaiah 32:6]].
* **Object of Divine Anger:** This foolishness provokes God to jealousy and anger [[Deuteronomy 32:21]]. Those who are called **foolish** `{{H5036}}`, such as the prophets who follow their own spirit, face divine woe [[Ezekiel 13:3]].
* **Source of Blasphemy:** The actions and words of the **foolish man** `{{H5036}}` are a direct reproach against God's name and character ([[Psalms 74:18]], [[Psalms 74:22]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5036}}` **nâbâl** denotes much more than a lack of intelligence. It describes a wilful, wicked, and impious state of being that is rooted in the rejection of God. This spiritual rebellion manifests as corrupt behavior, villainous speech, and blasphemy, ultimately resulting in shame and divine judgment. The term serves as a stark biblical warning against the practical atheism that corrupts the heart and leads to destruction.
TRV