### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **reshaʻ**, represented by `{{H7562}}`, refers to **a wrong (especially moral); iniquity, wicked(-ness)**. Derived from the root רָשַׁע (rashaʻ), it appears **30 times** across **29 unique verses** in the Bible. It describes a state of moral corruption and active opposition to divine righteousness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical texts, `{{H7562}}` is frequently contrasted with righteousness. The psalmist declares that God loves righteousness and hates **wickedness** [[Psalm 45:7]], and that treasures gained by **wickedness** are worthless compared to righteousness which delivers from death [[Proverbs 10:2]]. The term describes a corrupting influence and a choice, as seen when people are described as eating "the bread of **wickedness**" [[Proverbs 4:17]] or plowing **wickedness** [[Hosea 10:13]]. It is ultimately futile, as scripture states that **wickedness** cannot deliver those who are given to it [[Ecclesiastes 8:8]], and a person cannot be established by it [[Proverbs 12:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller picture of moral wrong and its consequences:
* `{{H7563}}` **râshâʻ** (wicked man): This is the concrete term for a morally wrong or bad person. It is often used to identify the individual who practices `{{H7562}}`, as when Ezekiel is told to warn the **wicked** man to turn from his **wickedness** [[Ezekiel 3:19]].
* `{{H7564}}` **rishʻâh** (wickedness): The feminine form of `{{H7562}}`, it also means wrong, especially moral wickedness. It is used to describe the moral state of a person, where "the **wickedness** of the wicked shall be upon him" [[Ezekiel 18:20]].
* `{{H5766}}` **ʻevel** (iniquity, perverseness): This word for moral evil is used synonymously with `{{H7562}}`. Job declares it is far from God to do **wickedness** or for the Almighty to commit **iniquity** [[Job 34:10]].
* `{{H2555}}` **châmâç** (violence, wrong): This term is often paired with `{{H7562}}` to describe the tangible outcomes of a wicked life. Proverbs speaks of those who "eat the bread of **wickedness**, and drink the wine of **violence**" [[Proverbs 4:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7562}}` is significant, highlighting the nature of sin and its incompatibility with God.
* **Opposition to God's Nature:** God is defined as one who has no pleasure in **wickedness** [[Psalm 5:4]]. It is presented as the antithesis of His character and something He actively hates [[Psalm 45:7]].
* **A Foundational Human Problem:** The Israelites confess their **wickedness** and the iniquity of their fathers to the Lord [[Jeremiah 14:20]]. God instructs Moses to overlook the people's stubbornness and their **wickedness** [[Deuteronomy 9:27]], identifying it as a core issue.
* **Source of Injustice:** It is found in the place of judgment and righteousness, corrupting human systems [[Ecclesiastes 3:16]]. Isaiah calls for fasting that breaks "the bands of **wickedness**" and lets the oppressed go free [[Isaiah 58:6]].
* **A Temporary State:** The "rod of the **wicked**" is not permitted to rest permanently upon the righteous [[Psalm 125:3]]. Ultimately, God will seek out the wicked person's **wickedness** until none is found [[Psalm 10:15]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7562}}` **reshaʻ** is a crucial term for understanding the biblical concept of moral evil. It is more than isolated sinful acts; it is a state of being, a corrupting system, and a practice that stands in direct opposition to God's righteousness. From the dwellings of individuals to the halls of judgment, scripture portrays **wickedness** as a pervasive but ultimately powerless force that cannot establish a person and which God himself opposes.
TRV