### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **pᵉthaltôl**, represented by `{{H6618}}`, is derived from a root meaning to be tortuous. It is defined as **tortuous (i.e. crafty); crooked**. It appears only **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible, making its single usage highly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H6618}}` is in [[Deuteronomy 32:5]], where it is used to describe the character of a rebellious generation. The verse states that they have corrupted themselves and are a "perverse and **crooked** generation." In this context, the word contributes to a powerful image of moral and spiritual deformity, working alongside the term "perverse" `{{H6141}}` to describe a people who have deviated from a straight and righteous path.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context in [[Deuteronomy 32:5]] illuminate its meaning:
* `{{H6141}}` **ʻiqqêsh** (distorted; hence, false; crooked, froward, perverse): This word is used in direct parallel with `{{H6618}}` in [[Deuteronomy 32:5]], creating a strong dual emphasis on the generation's moral distortion and corruption.
* `{{H1755}}` **dôwr** (properly, a revolution of time, i.e. an age or generation; also a dwelling): This is the noun that `{{H6618}}` modifies. It shows that the "crooked" nature described is not just an individual flaw but a characteristic of an entire generation or age.
* `{{H7843}}` **shâchath** (to decay, i.e. (causatively) ruin (literally or figuratively)): This verb sets the stage in [[Deuteronomy 32:5]], explaining that the generation's crookedness is a result of their own self-corruption and ruinous behavior.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6618}}` is concentrated in its single, impactful use.
* **Moral Distortion:** The word signifies more than simple wrongdoing; its root suggests a twisted, tortuous, and crafty nature. It describes a heart that is intentionally and fundamentally misaligned from divine standards.
* **Generational Identity:** By describing a whole **generation** `{{H1755}}` as "crooked," the term highlights the danger of collective apostasy and the corporate character of sin within a community.
* **A State of Corruption:** Its use in [[Deuteronomy 32:5]] connects this crookedness to a state of being "corrupted" `{{H7843}}` and having a "spot" `{{H3971}}` that marks them as unlike God's **children** `{{H1121}}`, signifying a loss of spiritual identity.
### Summary
In summary, though exceptionally rare, `{{H6618}}` **pᵉthaltôl** provides a sharp and potent descriptor for moral and spiritual perversion. Its singular use in [[Deuteronomy 32:5]] defines a generation not by its lineage but by its character: twisted, crafty, and self-corrupted. It stands as a stark biblical term for a people who have become fundamentally crooked in their ways.
TRV