### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻiqqᵉshûwth**, represented by `{{H6143}}`, denotes **perversity**. It is a rare term, appearing only **2 times** in **2 unique verses**. Its usage points specifically to a crookedness or corruption expressed through speech, with the base definition including the idiom "froward."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, `{{H6143}}` is used to characterize corrupt speech that originates from a corrupt person. [[Proverbs 6:12]] describes a "naughty person" and "wicked man" as one who "walketh with a **froward** mouth." This links the quality of perversity directly to the character of the individual. Similarly, [[Proverbs 4:24]] issues a command to "Put away from thee a **froward** mouth," treating it as a moral failing that must be actively rejected. In both cases, the word is associated with the mouth, emphasizing that this perversity is an outward expression.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and context of `{{H6143}}`:
* `{{H6310}}` **peh** (mouth): This word is directly modified by **ʻiqqᵉshûwth** in both of its appearances ([[Proverbs 4:24]], [[Proverbs 6:12]]). Defined as "the mouth... whether literal or figurative (particularly speech)," it shows that this perversity is a matter of corrupt communication.
* `{{H3891}}` **lᵉzûwth** (perverseness): Used in parallel with **ʻiqqᵉshûwth** in [[Proverbs 4:24]], this term for **perverseness** reinforces the theme of twisted or corrupt speech that one must put far away.
* `{{H1100}}` **bᵉlîyaʻal** (naughty): This describes the type of person who has a froward mouth in [[Proverbs 6:12]]. Its definition, "without profit, worthlessness; by extension, destruction, wickedness," establishes that a froward mouth is a key identifier of a worthless or ungodly person.
* `{{H120}}` **ʼâdâm** (person): In [[Proverbs 6:12]], this word for **person** is used to identify the "naughty **person**" who possesses a froward mouth, tying the corrupt speech to a human being's fundamental character.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6143}}` lies in its direct connection between internal character and external speech.
* **Speech as a Moral Indicator:** The use of **ʻiqqᵉshûwth** shows that a "froward mouth" is not a minor flaw but a primary sign of a "naughty person" and a "wicked man" [[Proverbs 6:12]].
* **The Command for Purity:** The instruction to "put away" a froward mouth in [[Proverbs 4:24]] presents purity of speech as a divine command and a necessary component of wisdom.
* **Association with Wickedness:** By appearing alongside terms for "wicked" `{{H205}}` and "naughty" `{{H1100}}`, **ʻiqqᵉshûwth** frames perverse speech as an element of a lifestyle that is contrary to God.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6143}}` is a specific and potent term for the **perversity** that manifests through speech. Though used only twice, it powerfully illustrates the biblical principle that a person's words are a direct reflection of their heart. It defines the "froward mouth" as a characteristic of the wicked [[Proverbs 6:12]] and as something that the wise must decisively reject [[Proverbs 4:24]], highlighting the importance of pure communication in a righteous life.
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