from נָכָה; a smiter, i.e. (figuratively) traducer; abject.
Transliteration:nêkeh
Pronunciation:nay-keh'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word `{{H5222}}` (נֵכֶה, *nêkeh*) is derived from the root `{{H5221}}` (נָכָה, *nakah*), which carries the primary meaning "to strike, smite, beat, wound, or kill." This foundational root establishes a direct link to actions involving physical force and harm.
In its form `{{H5222}}`, the word extends semantically. While it can literally denote "a smiter" – one who inflicts blows – its more prominent figurative extension is "traducer." A traducer is someone who speaks falsely or maliciously about another, thereby defaming or slandering them. This represents a significant shift from physical violence to verbal assault, highlighting the destructive power of words. The definition also includes "abject," which can refer to someone utterly cast down, miserable, or contemptible. In the context of "smiter" or "traducer," "abject" likely describes the despicable character of the one inflicting harm, or perhaps the state of those they bring low through their malicious actions.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H5222}}` appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in [[Psalm 35:15]]. The verse reads: "But in my adversity they rejoiced and gathered themselves together; the abjects gathered themselves together against me, and I knew it not; they did tear me, and ceased not." (KJV)
In this sole occurrence, `{{H5222}}` is translated as "abjects" (KJV), "revilers" (ESV), "slanderers" (NIV), or "malicious mockers" (NASB). The context is a lament by the psalmist (David) who describes his enemies rejoicing in his "adversity" or "stumbling." These "abjects" or "slanderers" are depicted as actively gathering against him, tearing at him without cessation. This "tearing" (קָרַע, *qara'*) can be understood metaphorically as tearing one's reputation or character through malicious speech, aligning perfectly with the "traducer" aspect of `{{H5222}}`. The Septuagint translates it with words related to "scourges" or "those who strike with scourges," reinforcing the "smiter" dimension. Thus, in [[Psalm 35:15]], `{{H5222}}` describes individuals who are not merely low in status but are actively hostile, contemptible, and engaged in destructive, often verbal, attacks against the righteous.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the root from which `{{H5222}}` is derived: `{{H5221}}` (נָכָה, *nakah*), meaning "to strike, smite, wound, kill." This connection underscores the inherent sense of inflicting harm.
Other related concepts and words include:
* **Verbal Attack and Slander:**
* `{{H7400}}` (רָכִיל, *rakil*): "slander, talebearer."
* `{{H3966}}` (לָשַׁן, *lashon*): "tongue," often used in contexts of malicious speech or slander.
* `{{H3934}}` (לִיץ, *liyts*): "to scorn, mock," reflecting the contemptuous aspect.
* `{{H1942}}` (הָוָה, *havvah*): "ruin, calamity," but also "mischief, wickedness," often referring to destructive speech or intent.
* **Contempt and Abjection:**
* `{{H959}}` (בּוּז, *buz*): "contempt, despise."
* `{{H7036}}` (קָלָל, *qalal*): "to be light, swift," but also "to be despised, cursed," reflecting the state of being brought low.
* **Adversaries and Enemies:** The broader context of the psalmist's suffering.
* `{{H6862}}` (צַר, *tsar*): "adversary, oppressor."
* `{{H341}}` (אַיַב, *'ayab*): "enemy."
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H5222}}` lies primarily in its singular, potent usage within a psalm of lament.
1. **The Nature of Evil:** `{{H5222}}` vividly portrays the destructive nature of those who actively seek to harm others. The extension from physical "smiter" to verbal "traducer" highlights that malice can manifest not only through violence but also through the insidious power of the tongue, which can inflict profound damage on a person's reputation, spirit, and well-being. It points to a deep-seated malevolence.
2. **The Suffering of the Righteous:** The appearance of `{{H5222}}` in [[Psalm 35:15]] places it squarely within the common biblical theme of the righteous suffering unjustly at the hands of wicked adversaries. The "abjects" are not merely those who are low, but those who actively bring others low through their contemptible and malicious actions. This underscores the reality of spiritual warfare and the opposition faced by those who seek to follow God.
3. **Verbal Violence as a Grave Sin:** The emphasis on "traducer" reinforces the theological understanding that words carry immense power and can be used for destructive ends. This aligns with wisdom literature (e.g., Proverbs) that warns against slander, gossip, and the misuse of the tongue, recognizing that verbal assault can be as devastating as physical blows in its impact.
4. **Divine Justice:** While `{{H5222}}` describes the actions of the wicked, the broader context of the Psalms, particularly laments, often includes an appeal to God for justice. The psalmist's cry implies a belief that God sees and will ultimately judge those who "smite" or "traduce" His servants, upholding His moral order where such actions are condemned.
### Summary
The Hebrew word `{{H5222}}` (נֵכֶה, *nêkeh*) originates from the root `{{H5221}}` (נָכָה), signifying "to strike" or "smite." While literally denoting "a smiter," its sole biblical occurrence in [[Psalm 35:15]] extends its meaning to "traducer" or "slanderer." This shift emphasizes the destructive power of malicious speech. The term describes individuals who are contemptible and hostile, actively engaging in verbal assaults that metaphorically "tear" at their victims. Theologically, `{{H5222}}` illuminates the multifaceted nature of evil, encompassing both physical and verbal aggression, and underscores the unjust suffering of the righteous. It serves as a potent descriptor of those who, through their malevolent actions and words, seek to bring others low, implicitly calling for divine intervention and justice against such wickedness.
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