### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻegeb**, represented by `{{H5690}}`, denotes love expressed in a concrete or verbal manner. Its definition includes "amative words," "much love," and "very lovely." This term is used infrequently, appearing only **2 times** across **2 unique verses**, but its context provides a sharp commentary on the nature of superficial affection.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Both occurrences of `{{H5690}}` are found in the book of Ezekiel and illustrate a disconnect between outward expression and inner conviction. In [[Ezekiel 33:31]], the people of Israel are described as showing "**much love**" with their mouths, while their hearts are secretly pursuing covetousness. Similarly, in [[Ezekiel 33:32]], the prophet's message is treated by the people as a "**very lovely** song," something pleasant to hear but not to be acted upon, as the text states, "they hear thy words, but they do them not."
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of `{{H5690}}` is clarified by its relationship to contrasting words within its primary context:
* `{{H6310}}` **peh** (mouth): This term, meaning **mouth** or speech, is the vehicle for the insincere "much love" expressed by the people, highlighting that their affection is merely verbal [[Ezekiel 33:31]].
* `{{H3820}}` **lêb** (heart): Defined as the **heart**, feelings, and will, this word stands in direct opposition to the mouth's profession. While the mouth shows love, the **heart** is what "goeth after their covetousness" [[Ezekiel 33:31]].
* `{{H1215}}` **betsaʻ** (covetousness): This word identifies the heart's true desire for unjust gain or profit, exposing the emptiness of the love professed with the mouth [[Ezekiel 33:31]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5690}}` lies in its pointed critique of hollow religiosity.
* **Superficial Devotion:** The word is used to condemn affection for God or His word that is only skin-deep. The people's "love" is presented as a form of entertainment or empty praise, like appreciating a "**very lovely** song" without heeding its message [[Ezekiel 33:32]].
* **The Division of Heart and Mouth:** It starkly illustrates the principle that God evaluates the inner state, not just outward performance. The conflict between the **mouth** `{{H6310}}` showing love and the **heart** `{{H3820}}` pursuing **covetousness** `{{H1215}}` is a central theme [[Ezekiel 33:31]].
* **Hearing vs. Doing:** Ultimately, `{{H5690}}` serves as a warning against hearing the word of God without obedience. The people's verbalized "love" is meaningless because it fails to produce action, demonstrating a faith that is professed but not practiced.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5690}}` is not a term for genuine, heartfelt love. Instead, it precisely describes an affection that is expressed in words but lacks sincerity and is contradicted by the true intentions of the heart. Though rare, its usage in Ezekiel provides a powerful and timeless caution against the dangers of a faith that is all talk and no action, distinguishing pleasant words from true obedience.
TRV