### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **sᵉchôwq**, represented by `{{H7814}}`, signifies **laughter**, but carries a dual meaning that includes both merriment and defiant scorn. Derived from a root meaning "to laugh," its translations include derision, sport, and being mocked. It appears **15 times** across **14 unique verses**, illustrating a range of contexts from joy to judgment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In Scripture, `{{H7814}}` is used to describe both divine blessing and human contempt. On one hand, it represents the joy of restoration, as when the Lord's deliverance fills the mouths of his people with **laughter** [[Psalms 126:2]]. It is also portrayed as a future reward for the righteous [[Job 8:21]]. Conversely, it is frequently used to mean **derision**. Jeremiah describes himself as being in daily **derision** [[Jeremiah 20:7]], and the nation of Moab is destined to become a **derision** as part of its judgment ([[Jeremiah 48:26]], [[Jeremiah 48:39]]). This highlights the word's capacity to convey both celebratory joy and bitter mockery.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which `{{H7814}}` appears:
* `{{H3932}}` **lâʻag** (to deride): This term, appearing alongside `{{H7814}}` in [[Jeremiah 20:7]], specifically means to deride or mock, reinforcing the negative and scornful aspect of laughter.
* `{{H8057}}` **simchâh** (blithesomeness or glee): Often paired with `{{H7814}}`, this word emphasizes joy and mirth, as seen in the philosophical questioning of laughter and **mirth** in [[Ecclesiastes 2:2]] and [[Proverbs 14:13]].
* `{{H3510}}` **kâʼab** (to feel pain; by implication, to grieve): The connection between laughter and pain is made explicit in [[Proverbs 14:13]], which states that even in **laughter** the heart is **sorrowful**.
* `{{H8643}}` **tᵉrûwʻâh** (clamor, i.e. acclamation of joy or a battle-cry): This word for a joyful shout appears with `{{H7814}}` in the promise that God will fill a person's lips with **rejoicing** [[Job 8:21]], linking laughter to triumphant celebration.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H7814}}` lies in its portrayal of the human condition and divine justice.
* **Joy as a Divine Gift:** In its positive sense, laughter is not a mere human emotion but a direct result of God's restorative work. The filling of the mouth with **laughter** is a sign of His favor and deliverance [[Psalms 126:2]].
* **Derision as a Consequence of Sin:** Laughter serves as a tool of scorn against God's people [[Lamentations 3:14]] and as a mark of judgment upon nations like Moab that magnify themselves against the Lord [[Jeremiah 48:26]].
* **Wisdom's Critique of Mirth:** The wisdom literature questions the ultimate value of laughter. It is called "mad" [[Ecclesiastes 2:2]], compared to the empty **crackling** `{{H6963}}` of thorns [[Ecclesiastes 7:6]], and shown to mask underlying **heaviness** `{{H8424}}` [[Proverbs 14:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7814}}` is a multifaceted term that extends beyond simple happiness. It functions as a powerful indicator of spiritual and emotional states, capable of representing both the profound joy that comes from God and the painful scorn of human mockery. Its use in Scripture reveals a sophisticated understanding of emotion, where laughter can be a sign of divine blessing, a tool of derision, or a fleeting vanity.
TRV