The Hebrew word mᵉdân, represented by H4090, means discord or strife. It is described as a form of H4066 mâdôwn, which signifies a contest or quarrel. Appearing 3 times in 3 unique verses, H4090 consistently refers to the intentional creation of conflict and division.
In its biblical usage, H4090 is always presented as a destructive outcome of negative character traits. It is something "stirred up" by hatred H8135, in direct contrast to love which covers sins Proverbs 10:12. The word is also used to describe something actively sown. A person with frowardness H8419 in their heart who continually devises mischief is said to sow discord Proverbs 6:14. Similarly, a false witness who speaks lies is one who sows discord among brethren Proverbs 6:19, highlighting its role in breaking relational unity.
Several related words illuminate the nature and source of the conflict described by H4090:
- H4066 mâdôwn (a contest or quarrel): This is the root word from which mᵉdân is derived. It signifies a broader sense of contention and brawling and appears alongside H4090 in contexts describing a froward person sowing strife Proverbs 6:14.
- H8135 sinʼâh (hate): This term for hatred is identified as the direct catalyst for strife, which it "stirreth up" Proverbs 10:12. This establishes a clear link between internal animosity and external conflict.
- H7971 shâlach (to send... sow): This verb, which can mean "to sow," is used twice to describe the deliberate action of spreading discord (Proverbs 6:14, Proverbs 6:19). It emphasizes that strife is not accidental but actively planted.
The theological concept of H4090 centers on the destructive nature of deliberate division.
- The Fruit of a Corrupt Heart: Scripture connects the sowing of discord H4090 directly to internal wickedness, such as a heart filled with frowardness H8419 that devises mischief H7451 continually Proverbs 6:14. Strife is thus an outward manifestation of an inner moral state.
- An Attack on Unity: The act of sowing discord is specifically condemned when it occurs "among brethren" Proverbs 6:19. This underscores the severe nature of disrupting community and fellowship, which are highly valued.
- The Opposite of Love: In a stark contrast, hatred H8135 stirs up strifes H4090, while love H160 is presented as the remedy that "covereth all sins" Proverbs 10:12. This positions discord as a force directly opposed to the restorative and unifying power of love.
In summary, H4090 mᵉdân is a potent term for strife that is intentionally created. It is not a simple disagreement but rather a malicious discord sown by those with hateful and perverse hearts. Its presence in Scripture serves as a strong warning against the internal attitudes that lead to external division, pointing instead to love as the force that covers offenses and preserves unity.
TRV