### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tôk**, represented by `{{H8496}}`, denotes **oppression, deceit, and fraud**. Rooted in a term suggesting "cutting to pieces," it carries a sense of destructive and harmful dishonesty. It appears only 3 times in 3 unique verses, but its context in each instance marks it as a significant descriptor of profound wickedness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H8496}}` consistently appears in contexts of moral corruption and affliction. In [[Psalms 10:7]], it is part of what fills a wicked person's **mouth** `{{H6310}}`, listed alongside **cursing** `{{H423}}` and **deceit** `{{H4820}}`. The word is also depicted as a pervasive societal problem; in [[Psalms 55:11]], **deceit** `{{H8496}}` and **guile** `{{H4820}}` are said to never **depart** `{{H4185}}` from the city's streets. However, scripture also presents a remedy: God promises to **redeem** `{{H1350}}` the **soul** `{{H5315}}` of the afflicted from **deceit** `{{H8496}}` and **violence** `{{H2555}}` [[Psalms 72:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and impact of `{{H8496}}`:
* `{{H4820}}` **mirmâh** (fraud): This term for "fraud; craft, deceit" appears alongside **tôk** in both [[Psalms 10:7]] and [[Psalms 55:11]], highlighting a strong thematic link between the two words.
* `{{H2555}}` **châmâç** (violence): Defined as "violence; by implication, wrong," this word is paired with **tôk** in [[Psalms 72:14]]. This connection shows that the fraud represented by **tôk** is not passive but is often an element of active, violent oppression.
* `{{H1350}}` **gâʼal** (to redeem): As the direct contrast to the affliction of **tôk** in [[Psalms 72:14]], this word for "to redeem... deliver, ransom" establishes **tôk** as a state of bondage from which God provides escape.
* `{{H1942}}` **havvâh** (wickedness): This word, meaning "ruin; calamity, iniquity, mischief," is the corrupt environment in which **tôk** is found in [[Psalms 55:11]], identifying fraud as a core component of systemic wickedness.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8496}}` is found in its portrayal of sin and God's response to it.
* **A Sign of Corruption:** The term is used to describe the output of a wicked heart and mouth. It is an outward expression of inner corruption, characterized by **cursing** `{{H423}}` and **mischief** `{{H5999}}` [[Psalms 10:7]].
* **An Oppressive Power:** Paired with **violence** `{{H2555}}`, **tôk** is presented as more than mere dishonesty; it is an oppressive force that afflicts the **soul** `{{H5315}}` of the vulnerable [[Psalms 72:14]].
* **An Object of Divine Justice:** God's character stands in direct opposition to **tôk**. He acts as the **redeemer** `{{H1350}}` for those who suffer under its weight, affirming that the **blood** `{{H1818}}` of the oppressed is **precious** `{{H3365}}` in His **sight** `{{H5869}}` [[Psalms 72:14]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8496}}` is a powerful, though infrequent, term for fraud and oppression. It is never mentioned lightly but is always associated with deep-seated sinfulness, whether in an individual's speech or as a persistent societal evil. It defines a state of human corruption and suffering that stands in stark contrast to God's justice and His redemptive character, serving as a reminder of the very wickedness from which He promises to deliver His people.
TRV