### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **çekel**, represented by `{{H5529}}`, means **folly** or silliness. Derived from a root meaning to be foolish, it appears just **1 time** in the single verse of [[Ecclesiastes 10:6]], where it refers to a state of foolishness or the dolts who embody it.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H5529}}` provides a stark illustration of a disordered world. In [[Ecclesiastes 10:6]], **folly** is described as being "set in great dignity." This verse paints a picture of societal inversion, where foolishness is elevated to a position of honor and authority, a state that stands in direct opposition to the principles of wisdom literature.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{H5529}}` is established by the words surrounding it in [[Ecclesiastes 10:6]]:
* `{{H4791}}` **mârôwm** (dignity): This word signifies an elevated place, altitude, or high rank. In this context, it is the high position that **folly** wrongly occupies.
* `{{H6223}}` **ʻâshîyr** (rich): Representing the rich or noble, this term stands in contrast to folly. While folly is elevated, the **rich** are made to "sit in low place."
* `{{H8216}}` **shephel** (low place): This word denotes an humble rank or low estate. It is the position to which the rich are relegated, emphasizing the complete reversal of proper order when folly is exalted.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H5529}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful appearance.
* **A World Inverted:** The primary lesson from this verse is the danger of a society where values are reversed. Setting **folly** in "great dignity" is presented as an unnatural and undesirable state of affairs.
* **Critique of Unjust Authority:** The passage serves as a critique of systems or leaders who elevate foolishness. It warns against placing "dolts" in positions of influence, which inevitably leads to the abasement of the worthy.
* **The Nature of Folly:** **Folly** is not merely a passive lack of wisdom but something that can be actively placed in a position of power, highlighting its potential to disrupt and corrupt social and moral structures.
### Summary
In summary, though `{{H5529}}` is one of the rarest words in the biblical text, its singular use in Ecclesiastes delivers a potent and memorable message. It serves as a symbol for the profound disorder that occurs when wisdom is abandoned and foolishness is honored. The word **çekel** captures a vision of a world turned upside down, where the elevation of folly results in the degradation of that which is valuable.
TRV