### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tᵉʼun**, represented by `{{H8383}}`, is defined as **naughtiness, i.e. toil; lie**. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire biblical text, marking its usage for a very specific context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{H8383}}` is in [[Ezekiel 24:12]]. In this verse, the word **lies** is used to describe the exhausting and fruitless efforts of Jerusalem, personified as a woman. The passage states, "She hath wearied herself with **lies**," directly linking the concept of falsehood with a self-inflicted weariness. This act of pursuing lies is presented as the cause for her "great scum" remaining within her, signifying a deep and persistent corruption that cannot be cleansed.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the immediate context of Ezekiel 24 provide a fuller picture of the meaning of `{{H8383}}`:
* `{{H3811}}` **lâʼâh** (to tire; (figuratively) to be (or make) disgusted... weary): This verb describes the action taken with the "lies." The text says Jerusalem "hath wearied herself" with `{{H8383}}`, emphasizing that the pursuit of falsehood is an exhausting and draining activity that leads to ruin [[Ezekiel 24:12]].
* `{{H2457}}` **chelʼâh** (disease; hence, rust; scum): This word is used metaphorically to represent the filthiness and sin of the city. The "lies" `{{H8383}}` are connected to this "scum," suggesting that the falsehood is a manifestation of an underlying moral disease and impurity that resists cleansing [[Ezekiel 24:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8383}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful usage. It illustrates a specific understanding of sin and judgment.
* **Sin as Tiring Labor:** The word portrays iniquity not as simple disobedience, but as a wearisome toil. Jerusalem expends its energy in the pursuit of lies, an effort that ultimately proves futile and self-destructive.
* **Falsehood and Corruption:** By linking `{{H8383}}` to "scum" `{{H2457}}`, the text suggests that lies and falsehood are not superficial acts but symptoms of a deep, inherent corruption that defiles the whole person or city.
* **Justification for Judgment:** This exhaustive effort in falsehood is presented as the reason for divine judgment. The "scum" that results from these "lies" must be dealt with by the purifying heat of fire, as stated in [[Ezekiel 24:12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8383}}` **tᵉʼun** is a highly specific term for a laborious and ultimately pointless devotion to falsehood. Its sole appearance in scripture is within the potent metaphor of Jerusalem as a rusty, unclean pot. The word powerfully conveys the idea that sin is an exhausting work that produces only a corrupt "scum," which in turn necessitates the refining fire of God's judgment.
TRV