### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew root `{{H7046}}` (qâlaç) is a primitive verbal root carrying the core meaning of "to disparage" or "to ridicule." Its semantic range extends to encompass concepts such as mocking, scoffing, and scorning. Unlike mere disagreement or lighthearted jest, `{{H7046}}` denotes a deeply contemptuous and disdainful attitude, often expressed through verbal or non-verbal actions that aim to demean, belittle, or dismiss the object of scorn. It implies a sense of superiority on the part of the one ridiculing, coupled with a profound lack of respect or reverence for the subject. The term suggests a deliberate act of contemptuous derision, often arising from pride or a hardened heart.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
While not among the most frequently occurring Hebrew verbs, `{{H7046}}` appears in significant contexts, predominantly in prophetic and wisdom literature, illuminating the nature of human rebellion and divine judgment.
In [[Ezekiel 16:31]], the prophet condemns Judah's spiritual harlotry, stating that she "scornest hire" (תְּקַלֵּסִי אֶתְנָהּ). Here, the word highlights an extreme level of depravity: Judah's idolatry was not motivated by the usual "payment" (symbolizing material gain or protection often sought through alliances), but by a wanton lust for sin itself, demonstrating a contemptuous disregard for even the conventional motives of a harlot. This underscores a profound spiritual abandonment.
Similarly, in [[Ezekiel 22:5]], the word is used to describe the fate of Jerusalem: "Those that be near, and those that be far from thee, shall mock thee" (יְקַלְּסוּ בָךְ). Here, `{{H7046}}` portrays the derision and contempt that Jerusalem will face from surrounding nations as a consequence of her egregious wickedness. It is an expression of divine judgment, where the city's shame is made manifest through the scorn of others.
The prophet Habakkuk employs `{{H7046}}` in [[Habakkuk 1:10]] to depict the arrogant and ruthless nature of the Chaldeans (Babylonians): "And they shall scoff at the kings, and the princes shall be a scorn unto them: they shall deride every strong hold." This verse powerfully illustrates the overwhelming pride and contempt with which the Babylonians would treat human authority and fortifications, highlighting their perceived invincibility and their disdain for all who stood in their way. Their "scoffing" signifies not just military superiority but a profound spiritual arrogance.
Though a different grammatical form, the noun derived from this root, *qālās* (קָלָס), also appears in [[Psalm 119:51]]: "The proud have had me greatly in derision" (זֵדִים הֱלִיצֻנִי עַד מְאֹד; קָלָס). This verse speaks of the experience of the righteous psalmist enduring intense mockery and scorn from the arrogant (זֵדִים), yet remaining steadfast in adherence to God's law. It illustrates the common suffering of the faithful at the hands of the ungodly.
In summary, the contexts reveal that `{{H7046}}` is consistently associated with:
1. Extreme moral or spiritual degradation ([[Ezekiel 16:31]]).
2. The consequence of divine judgment, often manifested through external contempt ([[Ezekiel 22:5]]).
3. The arrogant and ruthless behavior of oppressors or instruments of judgment ([[Habakkuk 1:10]]).
4. The suffering of the righteous at the hands of the wicked ([[Psalm 119:51]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of "mocking" and "scoffing" in Hebrew includes several terms, each with its own nuance. While `{{H7046}}` emphasizes a deep, contemptuous ridicule, other related words offer different shades of meaning:
* `{{H3932}}` (lāʿağ): To mock, stammer, deride. Often implies a verbal taunt or a mocking imitation.
* `{{H2781}}` (ḥārap): To reproach, taunt, defy. Carries a sense of shaming or dishonoring.
* `{{H6725}}` (ṣāḥaq): To laugh, to mock. Can range from innocent laughter to derisive mockery.
* `{{H1885}}` (dāraš): To tread, to despise (in some contexts).
`{{H7046}}` stands out for its strong connotation of scornful dismissal and active disparagement, often directed at something sacred, righteous, or a societal norm. It is frequently associated with concepts such as:
* **Pride and Arrogance**: The act of scoffing often stems from an inflated sense of self and a disdain for others or for divine authority.
* **Folly vs. Wisdom**: In wisdom literature, scoffing is characteristic of the fool who rejects instruction and wisdom.
* **Rebellion**: To scoff at God's commands or His people is an act of open rebellion against divine authority.
* **Divine Justice**: The scorn endured by the wicked (e.g., Jerusalem) is a manifestation of God's righteous judgment.
Antithetically, `{{H7046}}` stands in stark contrast to reverence, humility, respect, and obedience.
### Theological Significance
The theological implications of `{{H7046}}` are profound, shedding light on the nature of sin, divine judgment, and the experience of the faithful.
1. **The Nature of Sin**: The act of scoffing or scorning, as conveyed by `{{H7046}}`, reveals a particularly hardened and egregious form of sin. It is not merely a lapse in obedience but an active, contemptuous rejection and mockery of what is holy, righteous, or good. This attitude reflects a heart so alienated from God that it not only disobeys His will but scorns the very principles of truth and righteousness. It demonstrates a profound lack of fear of God and a readiness to despise His ways.
2. **Divine Judgment and *Lex Talionis***: The repeated appearance of `{{H7046}}` in contexts of divine judgment underscores a principle of divine justice, often akin to *lex talionis*. Those who "scoff" at God's commands, His people, or His prophets will themselves become objects of scorn and derision. The shame and contempt they inflict upon others will ultimately be visited upon them, whether through the actions of human instruments (like the Babylonians) or through the direct consequence of their actions. God's justice ensures that such contemptuous rebellion does not go unpunished.
3. **The Suffering and Perseverance of the Righteous**: The psalmist's lament in [[Psalm 119:51]] highlights the reality that the righteous often face the "scoffing" of the wicked. This experience of derision and contempt is a form of persecution, a test of faith that challenges the believer to remain steadfast despite external pressure. The ability to endure such scorn without deviating from God's law serves as a testament to the power of faith and the unwavering commitment to divine truth, even when it is ridiculed by the world. It emphasizes the stark contrast between the values of God's kingdom and the values of a rebellious world.
4. **God's Sovereignty**: Even when the wicked "scoff" and exert their power, God remains sovereign. Their actions, though sinful, can be providentially used by God as instruments of judgment or as a means to refine and test His people. Ultimately, God will be vindicated, and the scorn directed at Him or His ways will prove futile in the face of His ultimate authority.
### Summary
The Hebrew verb `{{H7046}}` (qâlaç) denotes a deep, contemptuous ridicule, disparagement, or scorn. It signifies an active, often arrogant, dismissal of something or someone deemed inferior, unworthy, or contrary to one's own prideful stance. Biblically, its usage consistently points to the actions of the wicked against the righteous or God's ways, or describes the instruments of divine judgment. Theologically, `{{H7046}}` illuminates the profound nature of a hardened, rebellious heart that not only disobeys but actively despises truth and righteousness. It underscores the certainty of divine judgment against those who scorn God's commands and His people, often resulting in their own experience of derision. Furthermore, it highlights the reality of suffering endured by the righteous who face such contempt, yet are called to persevere in faithfulness. In essence, `{{H7046}}` stands as a stark indicator of spiritual rebellion and its inevitable consequences, contrasting sharply with the virtues of reverence, humility, and obedience.
TRV