### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qallâçâh**, represented by `{{H7048}}`, is an intensive term for **ridicule** or **mocking**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, highlighting a very specific and severe form of derision that results from divine judgment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{H7048}}` is found in a prophecy of judgment in Ezekiel. God declares that because the people have become guilty in their blood (`{{H1818}}`) and defiled (`{{H2930}}`) by the idols (`{{H1544}}`) they have made, their days of judgment have drawn near (`{{H7126}}`). As a direct result of these sins, God states, "therefore have I made thee a reproach unto the heathen, and a **mocking** to all countries" [[Ezekiel 22:4]]. The word conveys a state of being an object of contempt among the nations.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in its only context illuminate its meaning as a consequence of sin:
* `{{H2781}}` **cherpâh** (reproach): This word is used in direct parallel with **mocking**, emphasizing the theme of disgrace and shame. The consequence of sin is to be made "a **reproach**... and a **mocking**" [[Ezekiel 22:4]].
* `{{H1544}}` **gillûwl** (idol): This term identifies one of the primary causes for the judgment. The people are defiled by their **idols**, which leads directly to them becoming an object of ridicule [[Ezekiel 22:4]].
* `{{H1471}}` **gôwy** (heathen, nation): This specifies the source of the derision. The punishment is not private but a public shame experienced before foreign **nations** and all countries (`{{H776}}`) [[Ezekiel 22:4]].
* `{{H816}}` **ʼâsham** (to be guilty): The state of being a **mocking** is a punishment that follows a verdict. The people are first declared **guilty** for their actions, which then results in their public disgrace [[Ezekiel 22:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H7048}}` is concentrated in its singular, powerful appearance:
* **A Consequence of Sin:** The state of being a **mocking** is presented as a direct result of specific transgressions: shedding blood (`{{H1818}}`) and idolatry (`{{H1544}}`). It is a tangible outcome of spiritual corruption [[Ezekiel 22:4]].
* **Public Disgrace as Judgment:** The term is explicitly linked to becoming a reproach (`{{H2781}}`) before the heathen (`{{H1471}}`), demonstrating that part of God's judgment involves the removal of honor and the infliction of public shame.
* **God's Active Role in Judgment:** The verse clearly states, "I have **made** (`{{H5414}}`) thee... a mocking." This shows that the ridicule is not a passive consequence but a divinely appointed punishment enacted upon a people for their unfaithfulness.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7048}}` is a potent but rarely used word that signifies intense **ridicule**. Its sole biblical context in [[Ezekiel 22:4]] firmly defines it as an instrument of divine judgment. It describes the profound and public shame that serves as a consequence for grievous sins like bloodshed and idolatry, illustrating the severity with which God views such transgressions.
TRV