The Hebrew word shalleṭeth, represented by H7986, is a potent term defined as imperious or a vixen. It is derived from the feminine form of a word meaning to rule. This word appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible, making its single usage highly specific and impactful in its context. It describes a domineering and brazen character, particularly in a negative sense.
The sole appearance of H7986 is in Ezekiel 16:30, within a prophecy from the Lord GOD. The verse describes Jerusalem, personified as an unfaithful woman, whose heart is weak. God says, "How weak is thine heart... seeing thou doest all these things, the work of an imperious whorish woman" Ezekiel 16:30. Here, shalleṭeth characterizes the defiant and controlling nature of Jerusalem's idolatrous actions, which are performed despite a deep-seated spiritual weakness.
Several related words from its context illuminate the meaning of shalleṭeth:
- H2181 zânâh (whorish): This word, used alongside shalleṭeth, means to commit adultery or, figuratively, to commit idolatry. It establishes the context of spiritual unfaithfulness, where Israel is seen as a spouse to Jehovah. This is seen in Hosea, where the land has committed "great whoredom" Hosea 1:2.
- H535 'âmal (weak): This term means to languish, be weak, or wax feeble. In a powerful paradox, God declares the heart of the imperious woman to be weak Ezekiel 16:30. It reveals that the defiant, controlling behavior stems from a state of spiritual sickness, as when a mother with many children "is waxed feeble" 1 Samuel 2:5.
- H3826 libbâh (heart): This is the feminine word for heart, identified as the source of the weakness and rebellion. The state of the heart is a central theme, as "the LORD trieth the hearts" Proverbs 17:3.
The theological weight of H7986 is concentrated in its single, powerful usage.
- Paradox of Sin: The term is used to describe an entity with a "weak" H535 heart that nonetheless performs the "work of an imperious" H7986 woman. This highlights a core theological truth about sin: spiritual emptiness and weakness can manifest as arrogant, defiant rebellion against God's authority Ezekiel 16:30.
- Character of Idolatry: By being paired with "whorish" H2181, the word shalleṭeth defines spiritual unfaithfulness not merely as passive straying, but as an active, domineering choice. It paints a picture of Israel willfully and imperiously choosing other gods, rejecting her relationship with the Lord Ezekiel 16:30.
- Divine Rebuke: The term is spoken directly by "the Lord GOD" (H136, H3069) in an oracle delivered by the prophet. Its use as part of a divine declaration underscores the severity of the people's actions and provides a clear indictment of their controlling and unfaithful nature Ezekiel 16:30.
In summary, H7986 shalleṭeth is a rare but vivid term for "imperious." Though used only once, its placement in Ezekiel 16:30 provides a stark and unforgettable image of defiant unfaithfulness. It characterizes the actions of a spiritually weak heart that paradoxically acts in a domineering and controlling manner. This single word encapsulates the tragic nature of a rebellion born not of strength, but of profound spiritual sickness.
TRV