The Hebrew word shâqar, represented by H8266, is a primitive root meaning to cheat, be untrue, deal falsely, or lie. It appears 6 times across 6 unique verses in the Bible. The term encompasses not only spoken falsehoods but also the act of being unfaithful to a commitment or failing to uphold the truth.
In its biblical usage, H8266 is frequently set in direct opposition to the character of God. The Strength of Israel "will not lie" 1 Samuel 15:29, and God's lovingkindness is demonstrated by His promise not to "suffer my faithfulness to fail" Psalms 89:33. The word also functions as a moral prohibition for humanity, as seen in the command, "Ye shall not steal, neither deal falsely, neither lie one to another" Leviticus 19:11. It is used in the context of covenants and oaths, where to deal falsely is to violate a sworn agreement (Genesis 21:23, Psalms 44:17). God's expectation is for His people to be "children that will not lie" Isaiah 63:8.
Several related words help clarify the scope of deception and faithfulness:
- H3584 kâchash (to be untrue, lie, deal falsely): A close synonym for H8266, this word appears alongside it in the command against dishonesty, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of the prohibition Leviticus 19:11.
- H1285 bᵉrîyth (covenant): This term is central to the context of H8266. Being untrue to a covenant is a primary application of dealing falsely, as the people profess in Psalms 44:17, "neither have we dealt falsely in thy covenant."
- H530 ʼĕmûwnâh (faithfulness, truth): This word stands as a direct antonym. God's character is defined by His faithfulness, which cannot fail H8266, highlighting a key attribute of the divine nature Psalms 89:33.
The theological weight of H8266 is significant, primarily in how it defines truth and integrity.
- Divine Infallibility: The concept that God cannot lie H8266 or repent is a cornerstone of His immutable character, setting Him apart from humanity 1 Samuel 15:29. His promises are secure because His faithfulness will not fail Psalms 89:33.
- Covenant Integrity: Truthfulness is the bedrock of a covenant. The word is used to describe the violation of sacred oaths between people Genesis 21:23 and the act of being unfaithful to God's covenant with Israel Psalms 44:17.
- A Standard for God's People: The prohibition against using H8266 establishes a clear moral and ethical standard. It is listed with other sins like stealing Leviticus 19:11, and being truthful is a defining characteristic of God's chosen "children" Isaiah 63:8.
In summary, H8266 is more than a simple term for lying. It describes a fundamental breach of integrity, truth, and faithfulness. Its use in Scripture serves to contrast the absolute reliability of God with the moral failings of humanity, while also establishing truth as an essential foundation for law, community, and the covenant relationship between God and His people.
TRV