### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tohŏlâh**, represented by `{{H8417}}`, is a term for **folly**. Its definition points to bluster, braggadocio, or fatuity. This word appears just **1 time** in the entire Bible, making its single appearance in scripture highly significant. It implies a type of error or imperfection that can be attributed even to exalted beings when measured against a divine standard.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H8417}}` is found in [[Job 4:18]], which states, "Behold, he put no trust in his servants; and his angels he charged with **folly**." In this context, the word is used to express the profound and absolute perfection of God in contrast to His created beings. The verse asserts that from God's perspective, even His servants and angels are not completely without fault. The charge of **folly** against angels underscores that no created being can measure up to the ultimate standard of the Creator.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words from its only context illuminate the meaning of `{{H8417}}`:
* `{{H539}}` **ʼâman** (to trust or believe): This word signifies being firm, faithful, or certain. In [[Job 4:18]], God puts no **trust** in His servants, establishing the theme of created fallibility. This contrasts with its use in [[Genesis 15:6]], where Abraham **believed** in the LORD.
* `{{H5650}}` **ʻebed** (a servant): This refers to the servants in whom God does not place his trust. While [[Job 4:18]] highlights their imperfection, other passages speak of God's chosen **servant** whom He upholds [[Isaiah 42:1]].
* `{{H4397}}` **mălʼâk** (an angel): The charge of folly is extended even to **angels**, God's heavenly messengers. This is a stark statement, as angels are elsewhere depicted as protectors sent by God to keep believers in all their ways [[Psalms 91:11]].
* `{{H7760}}` **sûwm** (to put): This is the action God takes, to **put** or "charge" His angels with folly. The word is used elsewhere for divine appointments, such as when God promises to **put** His words in the mouth of his people [[Isaiah 59:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8417}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful usage.
* **Divine Transcendence:** The concept of **folly** in angels underscores God's absolute perfection. It illustrates that the difference between the Creator and the created is one of kind, not just degree. Even the most glorious created beings `{{H4397}}` are fallible before Him.
* **The Ultimate Standard:** By charging his messengers with **folly**, the text establishes God's unique nature as the ultimate standard. His wisdom is so complete that any other being is imperfect by comparison.
* **A Basis for Humility:** The statement in [[Job 4:18]] serves as a theological foundation for humility. If God does not put full **trust** `{{H539}}` even in His heavenly **servants** `{{H5650}}`, it cautions against human pride and self-reliance, pointing instead to dependence on God.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8417}}` **tohŏlâh** provides a crucial, though singular, theological statement. While appearing only once, its use in [[Job 4:18]] defines the unbridgeable gap between the Creator's perfection and the inherent fallibility of all created beings, including both earthly **servants** and heavenly **angels**. The word encapsulates the idea that compared to God's absolute standard, imperfection or **folly** can be found in even the most exalted of His creations, highlighting His unique and transcendent nature.
TRV