### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qeleç**, represented by `{{H7047}}`, means **a laughing-stock; derision**. It is derived from the word קָלַס and appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. This term specifically denotes the state of being an object of mockery and contempt.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H7047}}` consistently describes a condition of profound humiliation. The prophet Jeremiah laments that for speaking the word of the Lord, he was made a reproach and a **derision** daily [[Jeremiah 20:8]]. This connects the experience of mockery directly to prophetic faithfulness. Similarly, the Psalms express this feeling on a national level, where the people of Israel cry out to God that they have been made a reproach and **derision** to their neighbours and those who are round about them ([[Psalms 44:13]], [[Psalms 79:4]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to frame the context of being a laughing-stock:
* `{{H2781}}` **cherpâh** (contumely, disgrace, the pudenda; rebuke, reproach(-fully), shame): This word appears in all three verses alongside **qeleç**, underscoring the deep sense of shame and public disgrace associated with the mockery ([[Jeremiah 20:8]], [[Psalms 44:13]]).
* `{{H3933}}` **laʻag** (derision, scoffing; derision, scorn (-ing)): Used in both Psalms occurrences, this term amplifies the idea of derision by adding the dimension of active scorn from onlookers [[Psalms 79:4]].
* `{{H7934}}` **shâkên** (a resident; by extension, a fellow-citizen; inhabitant, neighbour, nigh): This word identifies the source of the ridicule as **neighbours**, highlighting that the painful humiliation is inflicted by those in close proximity ([[Psalms 44:13]], [[Psalms 79:4]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7047}}` is found in its portrayal of suffering for one's faith or national standing.
* **The Cost of Prophetic Obedience:** Jeremiah's cry reveals that being a faithful messenger for the Lord can result in becoming a **derision**. His proclamation of "violence and spoil" made him a laughing-stock to those who heard it [[Jeremiah 20:8]].
* **A Sign of National Humiliation:** The psalmists use the term to articulate Israel's disgrace among the surrounding nations. Being made a **derision** is a tangible sign of their affliction and perceived abandonment ([[Psalms 44:13]], [[Psalms 79:4]]).
* **An Appeal for Divine Vindication:** In context, describing oneself as a **derision** is part of a lament to God, a plea for him to see the shame his people are enduring and to act on their behalf.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7047}}` **qeleç** is a specific and potent term for the experience of being a laughing-stock. Though used infrequently, it powerfully captures the pain of public mockery, whether endured by an individual prophet for his obedience to God or by the entire nation as a mark of its disgrace. It illustrates the profound social and emotional suffering that comes from being held in contempt.
TRV