### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qôwsh**, represented by `{{H6983}}`, is a primitive root meaning to bend, but is used in Scripture specifically in the sense of setting a trap or laying a snare. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, making its single usage particularly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H6983}}` is in the book of Isaiah, where it describes those who "lay a **snare** for him that reproveth in the gate" [[Isaiah 29:21]]. This context portrays a deliberate and malicious act of entrapment, targeting an individual who is delivering a rebuke or judgment in a public and official space. The action is part of a larger indictment against those who twist justice and persecute the righteous.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in its only context clarify the meaning of laying a snare:
* `{{H3198}}` **yâkach** (to reprove): This word identifies the target of the snare—the one who argues, convicts, or reproves. The snare is set specifically for the person attempting to correct wrongdoing [[Isaiah 29:21]].
* `{{H8179}}` **shaʻar** (gate): The action takes place in the **gate**, which was the center for legal and civic judgments. This shows the snare is a perversion of a public, official process [[Isaiah 29:21]].
* `{{H6662}}` **tsaddîyq** (just): The ultimate victim of this scheming is the **just** or righteous man. The verse links the act of laying a snare to the broader goal of turning aside the righteous from their standing [[Isaiah 29:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6983}}` is concentrated in its singular, vivid depiction of injustice.
* **Perversion of Justice:** To **lay a snare** `{{H6983}}` in the **gate** `{{H8179}}` is to corrupt the very place where justice should be administered. It represents a deliberate scheme to subvert righteous judgment.
* **Hostility Towards Rebuke:** The trap is set for the one who **reproveth** `{{H3198}}`. This highlights a theological principle of humanity's opposition to divine correction and those who speak truth, as seen when the LORD reasons with His people [[Isaiah 1:18]].
* **Targeting the Righteous:** The verse culminates by stating the objective is to "turn aside the **just**" `{{H6662}}`. The act of laying a snare is a tool used by the wicked to undermine and harm those who are righteous, a recurring theme where the wicked flee but the righteous are bold [[Proverbs 28:1]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6983}}` is a highly specific term that, despite its rarity, provides a powerful illustration of calculated evil. It moves beyond a simple physical trap to symbolize the act of maliciously plotting against those who uphold truth and justice. Its use in [[Isaiah 29:21]] encapsulates the perversion of legal and social order to ensnare the innocent and turn aside the righteous for worthless reasons.
TRV