### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻâthar**, represented by `{{H6280}}`, is a primitive root meaning to be abundant, deceitful, or to multiply. It is a rare term, appearing only **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, carrying a negative connotation in both of its usages.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical contexts, `{{H6280}}` describes a form of negative excess. In Proverbs, it characterizes the **kisses** of an enemy as **deceitful**, contrasting them with the **faithful** wounds of a friend [[Proverbs 27:6]]. In Ezekiel, the term is used to describe how the enemies of Israel have **multiplied** their defiant **words** against God, an act of verbal rebellion that God states He has personally **heard** [[Ezekiel 35:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{H6280}}` in its specific contexts:
* `{{H539}}` **ʼâman** (to render (or be) firm or faithful, to trust or believe): This word for **faithful** stands in direct opposition to the "deceitful" nature of an enemy's affection, highlighting the value of trustworthy truth over misleading abundance [[Proverbs 27:6]].
* `{{H1431}}` **gâdal** (to be... large... in pride): This verb for "boasted" is paired with `{{H6280}}` in Ezekiel, emphasizing that the "multiplied" words are not just numerous but are spoken with arrogance and pride against God [[Ezekiel 35:13]].
* `{{H1697}}` **dâbâr** (a word; by implication, a matter): This is the object being **multiplied** against God. The use of `{{H6280}}` here shows how speech itself can become an instrument of rebellion through sheer, boastful volume [[Ezekiel 35:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6280}}` is centered on the nature of deception and rebellion.
* **Deceptive Affection:** The word warns against flattery and insincere displays of friendship. The **deceitful** `{{H6280}}` kisses of an enemy are a form of abundant but empty affection that masks ill intent [[Proverbs 27:6]].
* **Arrogant Speech:** The term is used to define rebellion in the form of arrogant speech. To **multiply** words against God is an act of defiance, suggesting that a great quantity of words can be used to boast and challenge divine authority [[Ezekiel 35:13]].
* **Truth vs. Abundance:** By contrasting **faithful** `{{H539}}` wounds with **deceitful** `{{H6280}}` kisses, Scripture establishes that truth, even when painful, is superior to a profusion of pleasant falsehoods.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6280}}` encapsulates the concept of a corrupting abundance. Though it appears only twice, its meaning is sharp and consistent: it describes an excess that is either misleadingly affectionate or rebelliously boastful. It serves as a biblical caution against both insincere flattery from an enemy and the arrogant multiplication of words against God.
TRV