### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻâthâq**, represented by `{{H6277}}`, describes arrogant, defiant, or grievous expression. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from a root suggesting license, it consistently denotes speech or attitudes that are impudent, hard, or stiff-necked in their pride.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H6277}}` always characterizes a form of rebellious communication. In Hannah's prayer, she warns against letting "arrogancy" `{{H6277}}` come from the mouth, because the LORD is a God of knowledge who weighs all actions [[1 Samuel 2:3]]. The Psalms use it to describe the "grievous things" spoken with pride and contempt against the righteous [[Psalms 31:18]] and the "hard things" uttered by workers of iniquity [[Psalms 94:4]]. The term is also used metaphorically to command against speaking with a "stiff" `{{H6277}}` neck, linking arrogant words to a posture of defiance [[Psalms 75:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of arrogant speech:
* `{{H1364}}` **gâbôahh** (haughty, lofty, proud): This word appears alongside `{{H6277}}` to describe speech that is "exceeding proudly" [[1 Samuel 2:3]]. It emphasizes the elevated and arrogant nature of such talk.
* `{{H1346}}` **gaʼăvâh** (arrogance, pride): Paired with `{{H6277}}`, this term describes the "proudly" manner in which grievous things are spoken against the righteous [[Psalms 31:18]]. It can also refer to God's "excellency" [[Deuteronomy 33:26]].
* `{{H6677}}` **tsavvâʼr** (neck): The command to not speak with a "stiff" `{{H6277}}` neck `{{H6677}}` shows how this defiant attitude is embodied, representing an unwillingness to bow in submission [[Psalms 75:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6277}}` is centered on the sin of pride as expressed through speech.
* **A Challenge to God's Sovereignty:** Arrogant `{{H6277}}` speech is set in direct opposition to God's character. Such talk is silenced by the reality that the LORD is a "God of knowledge" `(`{{H410}}`, `{{H1844}}`)` by whom all "actions are weighed" `(`{{H5949}}`, `{{H8505}}`)` [[1 Samuel 2:3]].
* **An Attack on the Righteous:** The "grievous things" `{{H6277}}` are specifically directed "against the righteous" `{{H6662}}`. This highlights a primary tactic of the wicked: using contemptuous and proud words to malign God's people [[Psalms 31:18]].
* **The Posture of Rebellion:** The imagery of a "stiff neck" `(`{{H6277}}`, `{{H6677}}`)` and a "horn lifted on high" `(`{{H7161}}`, `{{H4791}}`)` illustrates that this is more than just speech; it is a fundamental posture of rebellion and self-exaltation [[Psalms 75:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6277}}` is a specific and powerful term for speech that stems from an arrogant and defiant heart. Though used sparingly, it consistently paints a picture of insolent words that challenge God, attack the righteous, and display a rebellious refusal to submit. It serves as a stark warning against the sin of pride, which so often finds its most destructive voice in what comes from the mouth.
TRV