### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tsâchaq**, represented by `{{H6711}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to laugh outright**, often with connotations of merriment or scorn. It also carries the implication **to sport, mock, play, or make sport**. This word appears **13 times** across **12 unique verses**, highlighting its specific and often dramatic role in biblical narratives.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6711}}` is used in several key contexts, often centered around pivotal moments of disbelief, joy, and scorn. Its most famous usage is tied to Abraham and **Sarah** `{{H8283}}`, who both **laughed** at the divine promise of a son in their old age ([[Genesis 17:17]], [[Genesis 18:12]]). After being confronted by the LORD, **Sarah** `{{H8283}}` denied her laughter out of fear [[Genesis 18:15]]. This same word, however, shifts to express joy when she exclaims that God has made her **laugh** and all who hear will **laugh** with her upon Isaac's birth [[Genesis 21:6]]. The word also frequently denotes mockery or contempt, as when Lot seemed to his sons-in-law as one that **mocked** [[Genesis 19:14]], or when Potiphar's wife twice accused Joseph of being brought in to **mock** them ([[Genesis 39:14]], [[Genesis 39:17]]). It can also describe revelry or play, seen when the Israelites rose up **to play** after their idolatry [[Exodus 32:6]] and when Isaac was seen **sporting** with his wife Rebekah [[Genesis 26:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concepts of laughter, mockery, and play:
* `{{H6712}}` **tsᵉchôq** (laughter): This noun is derived directly from `{{H6711}}` and means **laughter (in pleasure or derision)**. It is used by **Sarah** `{{H8283}}` when she says God has made her **laughter**, directly connecting the act of laughing with the resulting state [[Genesis 21:6]].
* `{{H7832}}` **sâchaq** (to laugh, play): A closely related verb, this term also means **to laugh (in pleasure or detraction)** or **to play**. It is used to describe the Lord having his enemies in derision [[Psalms 2:4]] and the voice of them that **make merry** [[Jeremiah 30:19]], showing a similar range of meaning from scorn to joyful celebration.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6711}}` is significant, often illustrating the tension between human perception and divine action.
* **Divine Promise and Human Doubt:** The laughter of Abraham and **Sarah** `{{H8283}}` initially represents human limitation and doubt in the face of a divine promise ([[Genesis 17:17]], [[Genesis 18:12]]). God's response to their laughter reaffirms His power, ultimately transforming their skepticism into joyful **laughter** that testifies to His faithfulness [[Genesis 21:6]].
* **Scorn Preceding Consequence:** The word is frequently used to describe mockery or scorn that invites negative consequences. Lot's sons-in-law treat his warning as a **mockery** just before their destruction [[Genesis 19:14]]. Similarly, **Sarah's** `{{H8283}}` observation of Ishmael **mocking** Isaac is a catalyst for a major familial shift [[Genesis 21:9]].
* **Corrupt Merriment:** In the context of the golden calf, the people rising up **to play** `{{H6711}}` is not innocent fun but a sign of their turning to idolatry and away from God, linking this form of "sport" to spiritual rebellion [[Exodus 32:6]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6711}}` **tsâchaq** is a potent word that captures a spectrum of human expression, from the scornful **mockery** of a doubter to the joyful **laughter** of a believer. Its use in scripture highlights critical moments of divine intervention, human response, and moral consequence. Whether it is the disbelief of Abraham and **Sarah** `{{H8283}}`, the idolatrous **play** of the Israelites, or the cruel **sport** of the Philistines, the context of **tsâchaq** consistently reveals deeper truths about faith, judgment, and the nature of God's interaction with humanity.
TRV