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Habakkuk 2:6 — Word Study

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WLCהֲלוֹא־ אֵ֣לֶּה כֻלָּ֗ם עָלָיו֙ מָשָׁ֣ל יִשָּׂ֔אוּ וּמְלִיצָ֖ה חִיד֣וֹת ל֑וֹ וְיֹאמַ֗ר ה֚וֹי הַמַּרְבֶּ֣ה לֹּא־ ל֔וֹ עַד־ מָתַ֕י וּמַכְבִּ֥יד עָלָ֖יו עַבְטִֽיט׃

BSAWill notlôʼ allkôl [these nations, every one of them] of theseʼêl-leh take upnâsâʼ a tauntmâshâl [a mocking song, a satire] against himʻal speakingʼâmar with mockerymᵉlîytsâh [ridicule, scorn] and derisionchîydâh [contempt, disrespect] Woehôwy [a cry of sorrow, a lament] to him who amassesrâbâh [gathers, accumulates] what is not hislôʼ [what belongs to others, unjust gain] and makes himself richkâbad [wealthy, prosperous] with many loansʻabṭîyṭ [pledges, debts, usury] Howʻad long will this go onmâthay [until when, for how much longer, continue, persist]

Word
Listen & take awayHabakkuk 2
English ↓ Download MP3 The Berean Standard Bible chapter audio already hosted for the site's Bible section — verse 6 is in this chapter.
Hebrew ↓ Download MP3 The Masoretic text of this chapter, read aloud. Read by Abraham Shmuelof, courtesy of Audio Scriptures International. Chapter divisions by the Academy of Ancient Languages..
Say the word Each Hebrew word carries its transliteration ('av.Tit) — no per-word recordings of the Hebrew exist to link to.
Take it away
Habakkuk 2:6quick helps
In a sentenceThe verse presents a warning about the consequences of greed and injustice, emphasizing the ridicule that will come from others.
Who is speakingThe prophet Habakkuk, addressing the nations and their attitudes.
Where we areThis verse is part of a larger oracle against a greedy oppressor, highlighting the inevitable mockery they will face.
The hard wordמָשָׁל
Take awayThe warning against unjust gain and the mockery that follows is clear.
8 commentators on this verse Gill, Jamieson, Poole, Trapp & more — read them › clause verbנָשָׂא The sentence as the grammar sees it Open the tree ›
How rare are these words?in the Old Testament

1 of 19 occurs nowhere else in the Old Testament — a word chosen on purpose.

Bars are logarithmic — אֵת, the commonest word in the Hebrew Bible, stands about 11,000 times, so a linear scale would leave everything else invisible. Click a row to open that word.

Deep Study — Habakkuk 2:6

Sections marked generated are written from the data on this page rather than by a named author. Everything else — the lexicon entries, the cross references, the manuscript readings, the counts — is quoted from its source unchanged.

Context — A Warning Against Greedgenerated

5and wealth indeed betrays him. He is an arrogant man never at rest. He enlarges his appetite like Sheol, and like Death, he is never satisfied. He gathers all the nations to himself and collects all the peoples as his own.
6Will not all of these take up a taunt against him, speaking with mockery and derision: ‘Woe to him who amasses what is not his and makes himself rich with many loans! How long will this go on?’
7Will not your creditors suddenly arise and those who disturb you awaken? Then you will become their prey.
8Because you have plundered many nations, the remnant of the people will plunder you— because of your bloodshed against man and your violence against the land, the city, and all their dwellers.

Habakkuk 2:6 warns that nations will mock a greedy oppressor, highlighting the futility of amassing wealth through unjust means. This verse is part of a broader message where Habakkuk addresses the moral decay and the consequences of exploitation, as seen in the surrounding verses. The prophet calls attention to the inevitable judgment that awaits those who take advantage of others, reinforcing the theme of divine justice throughout the book.


Cross References

ReferenceText (BSB)
1Numbers 23:7–18And Balaam lifted up an oracle, saying: “Balak brought me from Aram, the king of Moab from the mountains of the east. ‘Come,’ he said, ‘put a curse on Jacob for me; come and denounce Israel!’
2Isaiah 14:4–19you will sing this song of contempt against the king of Babylon: How the oppressor has ceased, and how his fury has ended!
3Jeremiah 29:22Because of them, all the exiles of Judah who are in Babylon will use this curse: ‘May the LORD make you like Zedekiah and Ahab, whom the king of Babylon roasted in the fire!’
4Jeremiah 50:13Because of the wrath of the LORD, she will not be inhabited; she will become completely desolate. All who pass through Babylon will be horrified and will hiss at all her wounds.
5Ezekiel 32:21Mighty chiefs will speak from the midst of Sheol about Egypt and her allies: ‘They have come down and lie with the uncircumcised, with those slain by the sword.’

The Key Word מָשָׁל, ma.Shalgenerated

The word מָשָׁל (ma.Shal) refers to a proverb or saying, often used in a context of mockery or satire. It captures the essence of a taunt or a mocking song directed at someone, particularly in the context of their wrongdoing.

In this verse, it emphasizes the ridicule that will be directed toward the oppressor, illustrating how their actions will lead to scorn from others. The use of this term indicates a broader cultural practice of using proverbs to convey moral lessons and highlight the folly of unjust behavior.


How Translations Differ — measured against the Berean Standard Biblegenerated

This study reads the verse in the Berean Standard Bible, which uses the phrase take up a taunt to convey the mocking nature of the saying.


Sentence Structuregenerated

The main verb יִשָּׂ֔אוּ (will they lift up) governs the entire verse, with multiple phrases hanging off it. The structure emphasizes the act of taking up a taunt, which is a collective action by the nations.

The arrangement of the sentence highlights the mocking tone, with the subject אֵ֣לֶּה (these) and the actions of speaking mockery and derision clearly laid out. This structure conveys the inevitability of the taunt against the oppressor.


Septuagint Backgroundgenerated

In the Septuagint, מָשָׁל is rendered as παραβολὴν, indicating a parable or proverb. This choice suggests a broader interpretative lens, emphasizing the moral lesson inherent in the taunt.

The use of παραβολὴν aligns with the tradition of using parables to convey deeper truths, reinforcing the idea that the mockery serves a purpose beyond mere ridicule.


In plain words — the whole versegenerated

Habakkuk 2:6 warns that nations will mock a greedy person who unjustly accumulates wealth through loans. This verse emphasizes the ridicule that will come to those who exploit others, highlighting the moral consequences of their actions.


Frequently Asked Questionsgenerated

What does this verse say about greed?

It warns that those who unjustly accumulate wealth will face mockery and derision from others.

Who is the target of this taunt?

The taunt is directed at a greedy oppressor who amasses wealth that does not belong to him.

What does the term 'taunt' imply in this context?

The term implies a mocking or derisive saying that highlights the foolishness of the oppressor's actions.

How does this verse connect to the theme of justice?

It underscores the inevitable judgment that awaits those who exploit others, reinforcing the theme of divine justice in the book of Habakkuk.


Reflection Questionsgenerated

  1. In what ways do I see greed manifesting in today's society?
  2. How can I ensure that my actions do not lead to the exploitation of others?
  3. What lessons can I learn from this verse about the consequences of unjust gain?
  4. How can I use my voice to speak out against injustice, as the nations do in this verse?

The early church on this verse — how the Fathers read it

Early church fathers reference this verse to discuss themes of greed and moral integrity, providing insights into its implications for believers.

Ambrose of MilanLETTER 15 c. 339–397
Let your people not desire many things, for the reason that few things are many to them. Poverty and riches are names that imply want and satiety. He is not rich who wants anything, nor poor who does not want.
Early Church Fathers on Habakkuk 2 →
Cyril of AlexandriaON THE UNITY OF CHRIST c. 376–444
As for the inventors of impure heresies, those profaners and apostates who have opened their mouths wide against the divine glory,
Early Church Fathers on Habakkuk 2 →
Richard Challoner 1691–1781
Thick clay: Ill-gotten goods, that, like mire, both burden and defile the soul.
Early Church Fathers on Habakkuk 2 →

Commentators on this verse — 8 expositors, verse by verse

Each of these wrote on Habakkuk 2:6 itself, not merely on the chapter around it.

John Gill1697–1771Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Shall not all these take up a parable against him,.... A proverbial expression, a short sentence, a laconic speech, delivered in a few words, which contains much in them concerning the vices of these

Read John Gill on Habakkuk 2 →
Robert Jamieson1802–1880Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown's Commentary

Shall not all these take up a parable against him, and a taunting proverb against him, and say, Woe to him that increaseth that which is not his! how long? and to him that ladeth himself with thick clay!

Read Robert Jamieson on Habakkuk 2 →
Matthew Poole1624–1679Matthew Poole's Commentary on the Holy Bible

Shall not? the prediction is moulded thus in a question, to give it emphasis, and make it more affective. All these, who have been oppressed, contumeliously used, and perfidiously deceived; all the people who have feared the power and policy of Babylon. Take up a parable; turn him and his state into a by-word and scorn. Against him; the king of Babylon, awhile since the terror, now the scorn of nations. Taunting; short, but smart, wounding scoffs; and whereas men usually bewail and condole the mishaps of great, brave, and just kings or kingdoms, all people shall exult and triumph in the miseries of this oppressive, luxurious, and base kingdom. Woe! either it is a threat of like vengeance on…

Read Matthew Poole on Habakkuk 2 →
John Trapp1601–1669Trapp's Complete Commentary on the Old and New Testaments

Habakkuk 2:6 Shall not all these take up a parable against him, and a taunting proverb against him, and say, Woe to him that increaseth [that which is] not his! how long? and to him that ladeth himself with thick clay!Ver. 6. Shall not all these take up a parable against him?] Shall not the Babylonian, who is now a terror, be ere long a scorn? shall he not inherit with ignominy, reproach? And a taunting proverb against him] Heb. An interpretation, and riddles. For example, Woe to him that increaseth that which is not his, that is both a proverb (because in many men’ s mouths) and an interpretation, because it is plain and perspicuous. But that which followeth is a riddle. "That ladeth…

Read John Trapp on Habakkuk 2 →
Charles John Ellicott1819–1905Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers

(6-20) The destruction of the Chaldæans has hitherto been only implied. It is now plainly foretold in a denunciatory song, put into the mouths of the invader’s victims. In this song there are five strophes, of three verses each, 6-8; 9-11; 12-14; 15-17; 18-20.

Read Charles John Ellicott on Habakkuk 2 →
AdamClarkeAdam Clarke's Commentary on the Bible

Verse 6. Shall not all these take up a parable against him] His ambition, derangement, and the final destruction of his mighty empire by the Persians, shall form the foundation of many sententious sayings among the people. "He who towered so high, behold how low he is fallen!" "He made himself a god; behold, he herds with the beasts of the field!" "The disturber of the peace of the world is now a handful of dust!"

Read AdamClarke on Habakkuk 2 →
CambridgeThe Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges

6–20. Five woes pronounced against the Chaldean From the mouth of the nations whom he has desolated Habakkuk 2:5 does not belong to the vision Habakkuk 2:4, but forms the transition to the taunting proverb taken up against the Chaldean by the nations. This proverb is in the form of a prophecy in which woes are pronounced on the lust of conquest, rapacity, selfish pride and idolatry of the people, and their ruin is predicted, for their vices carry in them their own recompense. The woes are five in number, beginning with Habakkuk 2:6; Habakkuk 2:9; Habakkuk 2:12; Habakkuk 2:15; Habakkuk 2:18. Though the nations take up the woes, as the passage proceeds the prophet himself appears to speak.

Read Cambridge on Habakkuk 2 →
Albert Barnes1798–1870Barnes' Notes on the Bible

Shall not all these take up a parable against him, and a taunting proverb against him?

Read Albert Barnes on Habakkuk 2 →

The verse in English, compared — 17 translations, and where they part company

Every translation on this page is a decision someone had to make and commit to. Read down a column and you see one translator's judgement; read across a row and you see the range the Greek actually allows. The BSB is the wording the rest of this page is measured against, so it is listed first.

Modern formal

BSBBerean Standard Bible2020

Will not all of these take up a taunt against him, speaking with mockery and derision: ‘Woe to him who amasses what is not his and makes himself rich with many loans! How long will this go on?’

WEBWorld English Bible2000

Won’t all these take up a parable against him, and a taunting proverb against him, and say, ‘Woe to him who increases that which is not his, and who enriches himself by extortion! How long?’

MSBMajority Standard Bible2022

Will not all of these take up a taunt against him, speaking with mockery and derision: ‘Woe to him who amasses what is not his and makes himself rich with many loans! How long will this go on?’

NETBNew English Translation2006

“But all these nations will someday taunt him and ridicule him with proverbial sayings: ‘The one who accumulates what does not belong to him is as good as dead (How long will this go on?) – he who gets rich by extortion!’

Tyndale line

KJVKing James Version1611

Shall not all these take up a parable against him, and a taunting proverb against him, and say, Woe to him that increaseth that which is not his! how long? and to him that ladeth himself with thick clay!

ASVAmerican Standard Version1901

Shall not all these take up a parable against him, and a taunting proverb against him, and say, Woe to him that increaseth that which is not his! how long? and that ladeth himself with pledges!

RVARevised Version, American1894

Shall not all these take up a parable against him, and a taunting proverb against him, and say, Woe to him that increaseth that which is not his! how long? and that ladeth himself with pledges!

NWBWebster's Bible1833

Shall not all these take up a parable against him, and a taunting proverb against him, and say, Woe to him that increaseth that which is not his! how long? and to him that ladeth himself with thick clay!

GNVGeneva Bible1599

Shall not all these take vp a parable against him, and a tanting prouerbe against him, and say, Ho, he that increaseth that which is not his? howe long? and hee that ladeth himselfe with thicke clay?

Strictly literal

DBYDarby Translation1890

Shall not all these take up a proverb about him, and a taunting riddle against him, and say, Woe to him that increaseth that which is not his! how long? — and to him that loadeth himself with pledges!

YLTYoung's Literal Translation1862

Do not these — all of them — against him a simile taken up, And a moral of acute sayings for him, And say, Woe [to] him who is multiplying [what is] not his? Till when also is he multiplying to himself heavy pledges?

LSVLiteral Standard Version2020

Are these not—all of them—an allegory taken up against him, || And a moral of acute sayings for him, || And say, Woe [to] him who is multiplying [what is] not his? Until when also is he multiplying to himself heavy pledges?

ILTInterlinear Literal Translation2000

Will not all these take up a parable against him, and a proverb and a satire concerning him? and they will say, Woe to him that increaseth what is not his! for how long? and to him that loadeth himself with a burden of guilt!

ULBUnlocked Literal Bible2017

Will not all these create a saying to ridicule him and a taunting song about him, saying, 'Woe to the one increasing what is not his! For how long will you increase the weight of the pledges you have taken?'

From the Latin

DRADouay-Rheims (Challoner)1899

Shall not all these take up a parable against him, and a dark speech concerning him: and it shall be said: Woe to him that heapeth together that which is not his own? how long also doth he load himself with thick clay?

Simplified

FBVFree Bible Version2020

Won't all these peoples taunt them? They will ridicule them, saying, “What disaster is coming to you who pile up things that don't belong to you! You make yourselves rich by forcing debtors to pay! How long can you go on doing this?”

BBEBible in Basic English1949

Will not all these take up a word of shame against him and a bitter saying against him, and say, A curse on him who goes on taking what is not his and is weighted down with the property of debtors!

Counted from the translations carried on this site, not from a survey of every English Bible. A rendering shared by many versions is usually inherited rather than independently arrived at — the Tyndale line in particular runs through most of them.


The sentence as the grammar sees it — from the MACULA Hebrew treebank

This is not our own analysis: it is the scholarly syntax tree for the verse, showing how the clause actually holds together.

clauseהֲ?clauseלוֹאnotclauseclauseclausenoun phrase · subjectאֵ֣לֶּהthese.[nations]noun phraseכֻלָּ֗of.themםallprepositional phrase · prepositionalעָלָיonו֙himobjectמָשָׁ֣לa.sayingverbיִשָּׂ֔אוּwill.they.lift.upוּandclausenoun phrase · objectמְלִיצָ֖הa.mocking.songחִיד֣וֹתriddlesprepositional phrase · prepositionalל֑toוֹhimוְandclauseverbיֹאמַ֗רwill.someone.say?clause · objectclauseה֚וֹיwoe.to!clausenoun phraseהַthe.[onenoun phraseclauseclauseverbמַּרְבֶּ֣הwho].increasesnoun phrase · objectprepositional phraseלֹּא[that.which].notprepositional phraseל֔[belongs].toוֹhimוּandclauseverbמַכְבִּ֥יד[one.who].makes.heavyprepositional phrase · prepositionalעָלָ֖יonוhimselfobjectעַבְטִֽיטpledge[s]clauseprepositional phrase · prepositionalעַדuntilמָתַ֕יwhen?

Boxes are the grammarian's groupings — clause, noun phrase, prepositional phrase.


The four witnesses to this verse — Masoretic, Septuagint, Samaritan, Qumran

The Masoretic Text and the Septuagint largely agree in their wording, with 17 of the 19 words matched. The Dead Sea Scrolls show some restoration, but the essential message remains consistent across these witnesses.

Masoretic TextLeningrad Codex, c. AD 1008 — the text this page is built on

הֲלוֹא־ אֵ֣לֶּה כֻלָּ֗ם עָלָיו֙ מָשָׁ֣ל יִשָּׂ֔אוּ וּמְלִיצָ֖ה חִיד֣וֹת ל֑וֹ וְיֹאמַ֗ר ה֚וֹי הַמַּרְבֶּ֣ה לֹּא־ ל֔וֹ עַד־ מָתַ֕י וּמַכְבִּ֥יד עָלָ֖יו עַבְטִֽיט׃

Septuagintthe Greek the translators chose, word by word
הֲלוֹא־οὐξὶאֵ֣לֶּהταῦταכֻלָּ֗םπάνταעָלָיו֙παραβολὴνיִשָּׂ֔אוּλήμψονταιוּמְלִיצָ֖הπρόβλημαחִיד֣וֹתεἰςל֑וֹαὐτοῦה֚וֹיοὐαὶהַמַּרְבֶּ֣הπληθύνωνלֹּא־οὐκל֔וֹαὐτοῦעַד־καὶמָתַ֕יβαρύνωνוּמַכְבִּ֥ידαὐτοῦעָלָ֖יוἕωςעַבְטִֽיט׃τίνος

17 of the 19 words are matched. This is the word-by-word correspondence, not the Septuagint's own sentence — its word order and its articles are its own.

Dead Sea Scrolls — Mur88a copy a thousand years older than the Leningrad Codex

[הלוא] אלה כל׳ם עלי׳ו [משל] [ישאו] [ומליצה] [חידות] [ל׳ו] [ויאמר] [הוי] [המרבה] [לא] [ל׳ו] עד מתי [ומכביד] [עלי׳ו] [עבטיט]

4 words on the leather — 1 partly restored, 14 supplied entire by an editor.

Four traditions, not one. “On the leather” means the letters physically survive on the scroll, as against letters an editor has supplied to fill a hole in it — a restoration is a scholar’s reading, not a reading of the manuscript. Words in [square brackets] are supplied; the notes count them apart from what survives.


The map of this verse — what each word keeps company with

This is a map of two things, both counted rather than judged. Company kept: which words stand within three words of each of these, anywhere in the Hebrew Bible — the thicker the line, the more often the pair meet compared with chance. Built from: the words a word is made out of, taken from its own Strong’s entry. It is not a map of meaning: nothing here claims two words mean the same thing. Click any circle to see the numbers behind it.

Habakkuk 2:6לֹא¿ not¿ notלֹאאֵ֫לֶּהthese [natithese [nations]אֵ֫לֶּהכֹּלall of themall of themכֹּלעַלon himon himעַלמָשָׁלa sayinga sayingמָשָׁלנָשָׂאwill they lwill they lift נָשָׂאמְלִיצָהand a mockiand a mocking sמְלִיצָהחִידָהriddlesriddlesחִידָהוֹto himto himוֹאָמַרso may someso may someone אָמַרהוֹיwoe to!woe to!הוֹירָבָהthe [one whthe [one who] iרָבָהלֹא[that which[that which] noלֹאוֹ[belongs] t[belongs] to hiוֹעַדuntiluntilעַדמָתַיwhen?when?מָתַיכָּבֵדand [one whand [one who] mכָּבֵדעַלon himselfon himselfעַלעַבְטִיטpledge[s]pledge[s]עַבְטִיטחוּדto riddleto riddleחוּדאֵלthesetheseאֵלכָּלַלto perfectto perfectכָּלַלעַלheightheightעַלמָשַׁלto ruleto ruleמָשַׁללִיץto mockto mockלִיץעָבַטto lendto lendעָבַטאֵבfruitfruitאֵבאָבַדto perishto perishאָבַדהוֹAh!Ah!הוֹאוֹיwoe!woe!אוֹירָבַבto multiplto multiply tenרָבַבעַדperpetuityperpetuityעַדיָכֹלbe ablebe ableיָכֹלעוֹדstillstillעוֹדכִּפֶּרto atoneto atoneכִּפֶּרכִּסֵּאthronethroneכִּסֵּאמְלִיצָהmockerymockeryמְלִיצָה
meets it a little oftener than chancemeets it far oftener than chancebuilt from the same roottwo words of the verse share ita word of this versea related word

Lexicons — every word in Habakkuk 2:6

One dossier per word, with every reference work grouped by kind — Hebrew lexicons, morphology, Bible dictionaries, topical chains and the English of the translators themselves. The verse sits at the head of each block with the word under study lit, so you never lose your place. The panel above gives the short answer; this is the long one, and it is the part of the page worth indexing.

Every entry below is the lexicographer's own text. On the Hebrew: Brown-Driver-Briggs entire and its gloss set, Strong's Hebrew Dictionary, and Tyndale House's Translators Brief lexicon. Where a cell says a work has no entry, that work genuinely has none for this word.

¿ not these [nations] all of them on him a saying will they lift up and a mocking song riddles to him so may someone say? woe to! the [one who] increases [that which] not [belongs] to him until when? and [one who] makes heavy on himself pledge[s]
הֲלוֹא־ha.lo'- ¿ not H3808 Particle · particle
5,170× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.
Tyndale gloss
not
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

לֹא (lo') is a Hebrew word meaning 'not' or 'no.' It serves as a simple negation and can imply absence or prohibition. The word can also be used in various contexts, often combined with other particles for emphasis or clarification. Its Aramaic equivalent is לָא (la), which also means 'not.'

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

לֹא or לוֹא adv. not

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H3808 לֹא or לוֹא not

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

3808 lo' lo

or lowi {lo}; or loh (Deut. 3:11) {lo}; a primitive particle;

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often

used with other particles (as follows):--X before, + or else,

ere, + except, ig(-norant), much, less, nay, neither, never,

no((-ne), -r, (-thing)), (X as though...,(can-), for) not (out

of), of nought, otherwise, out of, + surely, + as truly as, +

of a truth, + verily, for want, + whether, without.

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

לֹא (lo) — not.

1) not, no

1a) not (with verb-absolute prohibition)

1b) not (with modifier-negation)

1c) nothing (subst)

1d) without (with particle)

1e) before (of time)

Aramaic equivalent: la (לָא "not" H3809)

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
Part | Part — Particle · particle
HTi/Tn
The company it keepswords that stand beside it more often than chance
¿ not these [nations] all of them on him a saying will they lift up and a mocking song riddles to him so may someone say? woe to! the [one who] increases [that which] not [belongs] to him until when? and [one who] makes heavy on himself pledge[s]
אֵ֣לֶּה'E.leh these [nations] H428 Particle
746× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
This Hebrew word is used to point out specific people or things, like saying 'these' or 'those'. It appears in the book of Genesis, where God says 'let there be light' and separates the light from the darkness.
Tyndale gloss
these
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

אֵ֫לֶּה (el-leh) means 'these' and is used in various grammatical contexts, often in apposition to a noun with a pronoun suffix. It can appear with or without the definite article and is sometimes paired with other terms like וְאֵלֶּה (and these). The word conveys a sense of proximity or specification, referring to particular items or people.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

אֵ֫לֶּה pr.pl.m. & f. these

in appos. to a subst. with a pron. suff. (always without the article)

repeated, אלה … ואלה, these … those

with the art. (but only after a subst. determined likewise by the art.)

with preps.

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H428 אֵ֫לֶּה these . in appos. to a subst. with a pron. suff. (always without the article)

. repeated, אלה … ואלה, these … those

. with the art. (but only after a subst. determined likewise by the art.)

. with preps.

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

428 'el-leh ale'-leh

prolonged from 411; these or those:--an- (the) other; one

sort, so, some, such, them, these (same), they, this, those,

thus, which, who(-m).

see HEBREW for 0411

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

אֵ֫לֶּה (el.leh) — these.

1) these

1a) used before antecedent

1b) used following antecedent

Aramaic equivalent: el.leh (אֵלֶּה "these" H0429)

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
Pron — Particle
HTm
Bible dictionarieson the English sense
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia

na'-shunz.

See GENTILES; GOIIM; HEATHEN; TABLE OF NATIONS.

¿ not these [nations] all of them on him a saying will they lift up and a mocking song riddles to him so may someone say? woe to! the [one who] increases [that which] not [belongs] to him until when? and [one who] makes heavy on himself pledge[s]
כֻלָּ֗םkhu.Lam all of them H3605 Noun common masculine singular construct · suffix
5,415× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
The Hebrew word for 'all' or 'everything' is used throughout the Bible, like in Genesis 1:31, where God sees all He has made as very good. It encompasses the entirety of something, whether people, things, or situations.
Amplified meaning
these nations, every one of them
Tyndale gloss
all
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

כֹּל (kol) means 'all' or 'the whole.' It can refer to totality, including every person or thing, and is often used with a following genitive to specify what is included. The term can also denote a broader sense of everything in existence or all circumstances of life. The lexicons do not show significant disagreement on its meanings.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

כֹּל once כּוֹל n.m. the whole, all

with foll. gen. (as usually) the whole of, to be rendered, however, often in our idiom, to avoid stiffness, any or every

Absolutely:

without the art., all things, all

with the art. הַכֹּל

where the sense is limited by the context to things (or persons) just mentioned

in a wider sense, all, whether of all mankind or of all living things, the universe, or of all the circumstances of life (chiefly late)

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H3605 כֹּל once כּוֹל the whole, all . with foll. gen. (as usually) the whole of, to be rendered, however, often in our idiom, to avoid stiffness, any or every

. Absolutely: . without the art., all things, all

. with the art. הַכֹּל . where the sense is limited by the context to things (or persons) just mentioned

. in a wider sense, all, whether of all mankind or of all living things, the universe, or of all the circumstances of life (chiefly late)

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

3605 kol kole

or (Jer. 33:8) kowl {kole}; from 3634; properly, the whole;

hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a

plural sense):--(in) all (manner, (ye)), altogether, any

(manner), enough, every (one, place, thing), howsoever, as

many as, (no-)thing, ought, whatsoever, (the) whole,

whoso(-ever).

see HEBREW for 03634

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

כֹּל (kol) — all.

1) all, the whole

1a) all, the whole of

1b) any, each, every, anything

1c) totality, everything

Aramaic equivalent: kol (כֹּל "all" H3606)

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
N-ms | Suff — Noun common masculine singular construct · suffix
HNcmsc/Sp3mp
The company it keepswords that stand beside it more often than chance
¿ not these [nations] all of them on him a saying will they lift up and a mocking song riddles to him so may someone say? woe to! the [one who] increases [that which] not [belongs] to him until when? and [one who] makes heavy on himself pledge[s]
עָלָיו֙'a.Lav on him H5921 Preposition · suffix
5,774× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.
Tyndale gloss
upon
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

The Hebrew word עַל (*al*) is a preposition meaning 'upon' and encompasses a wide range of meanings, including 'on account of,' 'beside,' 'above,' and 'against.' It can indicate physical placement, emotional burdens, or duties imposed on a person. The entries also note its use in idiomatic expressions and with verbs of motion. There is a mention of its function as a conjunction in certain contexts.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

כִּי עַל כֵּן forasmuch as

base

עַל, עָ֑ל

subst. height

As prep. upon, and hence on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against

Upon, of the substratum upon which an object in any way rests, or on which an action is performed

of clothing, etc., which any one wears

With verbs of covering or protecting, even though the cover or veil be not over or above the thing covered, but around or before it

Of what rests heavily upon a person, or is a burden to him

Of a duty, payment, care, etc., imposed upon a person, or devolving on him

על is used idiom. to give pathos to the expression of an emotion, by emphasizing the person who is its subject, and who, as it were, feels it acting upon him

חָיָה עַל to live upon (as upon a foundation or support)

Read the full entry →
Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H5921a עַל, עָ֑ל . As prep. upon, and hence on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against . Upon, of the substratum upon which an object in any way rests, or on which an action is performed . — . of clothing, etc., which any one wears

. With verbs of covering or protecting, even though the cover or veil be not over or above the thing covered, but around or before it

. Of what rests heavily upon a person, or is a burden to him

. Of a duty, payment, care, etc., imposed upon a person, or devolving on him

. על is used idiom. to give pathos to the expression of an emotion, by emphasizing the person who is its subject, and who, as it were, feels it acting upon him

. חָיָה עַל to live upon (as upon a foundation or support)

Read the full entry →
Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

5921 `al al

properly, the same as 5920 used as a preposition (in the

singular or plural often with prefix, or as conjunction with a

particle following); above, over, upon, or against (yet always

in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great

variety of applications (as follow):--above, according

to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, X as, at, because

of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, X both

and, by (reason of), X had the charge of, concerning for, in

(that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-)on, over, than,

through(-out), to, touching, X with.

see HEBREW for 05920

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

עַל (al) — upon.

prep

1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against

1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards

1b) above, beyond, over (of excess)

1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence)

1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition)

1e) over (of suspension or extension)

1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity)

1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion)

1h) to (as a dative)

[כִּי] עַל [כֵּן] ([ki] al [ken]) — as.

conj

Read the full entry →
Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
Prep | Suff — Preposition · suffix
HR/Sp3ms
The company it keepswords that stand beside it more often than chance
¿ not these [nations] all of them on him a saying will they lift up and a mocking song riddles to him so may someone say? woe to! the [one who] increases [that which] not [belongs] to him until when? and [one who] makes heavy on himself pledge[s]
מָשָׁ֣לma.Shal a saying H4912 Noun common · masculine singular absolute
39× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
A proverb is a short saying that teaches a lesson, often using comparisons or metaphors, like those found in the book of Proverbs. It's a way of sharing wisdom and insight. Proverbs are used by Solomon and other biblical writers.
Amplified meaning
a mocking song, a satire
Tyndale gloss
proverb
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

מָשָׁל (mashal) refers to a proverb or parable, often characterized by parallelism and typically found in Hebrew Wisdom literature. It encompasses various forms such as aphorisms, bywords, and ethical maxims. The word is derived from a root suggesting superiority in mental action, indicating its metaphorical nature.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

מָשָׁל n.m. proverb, parable (of sentences constructed in parallelism, usu. of Hebrew Wisdom, but occas. of other types)

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H4912 מָשָׁל proverb, parable (of sentences constructed in parallelism, usu. of Hebrew Wisdom, but occas. of other types)

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

4912 mashal maw-shawl'

apparently from 4910 in some original sense of superiority in

mental action; properly, a pithy maxim, usually of

metaphorical nature; hence, a simile (as an adage, poem,

discourse):--byword, like, parable, proverb.

see HEBREW for 04910

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

מָשָׁל (ma.shal) — proverb.

1) proverb, parable

1a) proverb, proverbial saying, aphorism

1b) byword

1c) similitude, parable

1d) poem

1e) sentences of ethical wisdom, ethical maxims

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
N-ms — Noun common · masculine singular absolute
HNcmsa
¿ not these [nations] all of them on him a saying will they lift up and a mocking song riddles to him so may someone say? woe to! the [one who] increases [that which] not [belongs] to him until when? and [one who] makes heavy on himself pledge[s]
יִשָּׂ֔אוּyi.Sa.'u will they lift up H5375 Verb · Qal · imperfect third person masculine plural
656× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to lift or raise something, and it's used in many ways, like lifting a burden or raising someone's status. It appears in books like Genesis and Isaiah, often talking about God lifting people up. It's about supporting or carrying something or someone.
Tyndale gloss
to lift: raise
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

The Hebrew word נָשָׂא (nasa') means to lift, carry, or take, encompassing a wide range of applications both literal and figurative. It can refer to actions like bearing burdens, taking away, or being exalted. The entries indicate various forms and uses, including the ability to lift oneself up or cause others to bear iniquity. There is no significant disagreement among the lexicons regarding its meanings.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

נָשָׂא 656 vb. lift, carry, take

Qal

lift, lift up

Bear, carry

Take, take away

Niph.

be lifted up

refl. lift oneself up = rise up, of י׳, to display power in judgment

be borne, carried

be taken away, carried off

Pi.

lift up = exalt

fig. = desire, long

carry, bear continuously

take, take away

Hithp. lift oneself up

Hiph.

cause one to bear iniquity

appar. cause to bring, have brought

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H5375 נָשָׂא lift, carry, take .. lift, lift up

. Bear, carry

. Take, take away

. . be lifted up

. refl. lift oneself up = rise up, of י׳, to display power in judgment

. be borne, carried

. be taken away, carried off

. . lift up = exalt

. fig. = desire, long

. carry, bear continuously

. take, take away

. lift oneself up

. . cause one to bear iniquity

. appar. cause to bring, have brought

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

5375 nasa' naw-saw'

or nacah (Psalm 4 : 6 (7)) {naw-saw'}; a primitive root; to

lift, in a great variety of applications, literal and

figurative, absol. and rel. (as follows):--accept, advance,

arise, (able to, (armor), suffer to) bear(-er, up), bring

(forth), burn, carry (away), cast, contain, desire, ease,

exact, exalt (self), extol, fetch, forgive, furnish, further,

give, go on, help, high, hold up, honorable (+ man), lade,

lay, lift (self) up, lofty, marry, magnify, X needs, obtain,

pardon, raise (up), receive, regard, respect, set (up), spare,

stir up, + swear, take (away, up), X utterly, wear, yield.

see HEBREW for 04

see HEBREW for 06

see HEBREW for 07

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

נָשָׂא (na.sa) — to lift: raise.

: raise/take_up

1) to lift, bear up, carry, take

1a) (Qal)

1a1) to lift, lift up

1a2) to bear, carry, support, sustain, endure

1a3) to take, take away, carry off, forgive

1b) (Niphal)

1b1) to be lifted up, be exalted

1b2) to lift oneself up, rise up

1b3) to be borne, be carried

1b4) to be taken away, be carried off, be swept away

1c) (Piel)

1c1) to lift up, exalt, support, aid, assist

1c2) to desire, long (fig.)

1c3) to carry, bear continuously

1c4) to take, take away

1d) (Hithpael) to lift oneself up, exalt oneself

1e) (Hiphil)

1e1) to cause one to bear (iniquity)

1e2) to cause to bring, have brought

נָשָׂא (na.sa) — to lift: bear.

: look/lift(eyes)

1) to lift, bear up, carry, take

1a) (Qal)

1a1) to lift, lift up

1a2) to bear, carry, support, sustain, endure

1a3) to take, take away, carry off, forgive

1b) (Niphal)

1b1) to be lifted up, be exalted

Read the full entry →
Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
V-Qal-Imperf-3mp — Verb · Qal · imperfect third person masculine plural
HVqi3mp
¿ not these [nations] all of them on him a saying will they lift up and a mocking song riddles to him so may someone say? woe to! the [one who] increases [that which] not [belongs] to him until when? and [one who] makes heavy on himself pledge[s]
וּמְלִיצָ֖הu.me.li.Tzah and a mocking song H4426 Conjunction · noun common feminine singular absolute
2× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
This word means a satire or mocking poem, often used to describe the taunting songs of the enemy. It can also refer to a riddle or enigma, like the ones found in the book of Psalms. The Bible translates it as 'taunting' or 'interpretation'.
Amplified meaning
ridicule, scorn
Tyndale gloss
mockery
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

מְלִיצָה (mliytsah) refers to a form of expression such as an aphorism, satire, or mockery. It encompasses meanings related to interpretation, taunting, and mocking poems or songs. The word is derived from a root that suggests a connection to the act of speaking or expressing in a figurative manner.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

מְלִיצָה n.[f.] satire, mocking-poem

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H4426 מְלִיצָה

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

4426 mliytsah mel-ee-tsaw'

from 3887; an aphorism; also a satire:--interpretation,

taunting.

see HEBREW for 03887

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

מְלִיצָה (me.li.tsah) — mockery.

satire, mocking poem, mocking song, taunting, figure, enigma

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
Conj | N-fs — Conjunction · noun common feminine singular absolute
HC/Ncfsa
Bible dictionarieson the English sense
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia

(shir, shirah): Besides the great collection of sacred songs contained in the Psalter, as well as the lyric outbursts, marked by strong religious feeling, on great national occasions, it is natural to believe, and we have evidence to show, that the Hebrews possessed a large number of popular songs of a secular kind. So of Songs (which see) of itself proves this. Probably the very oldest song or fragment of song in the Old Testament is that "To the well" (Nu 21:17). W. R. Smith (Religions of the Semites, 167) regards this invocation of the waters to rise as in its origin hardly a mere poetic figure. He compares what Cazwini 1, 189, records of the well of Ilabistan: "When the water failed, a feast was held at its source with music and dancing, to induce it to flow again." If, however, the song had its origin in an early form of…

Nave's Topical Bible

→ Sung at the Passover meal Mt 26:30; Mr 14:26

→ Didactic De 32

→ See PSALMS, DIDACTIC

→ Impersonation of the church (?) So 1; 2; 3; 4; 5; 6; 7; 8

→ Of Moses and the Lamb Re 15:3,4

→ A new Ps 33:3; 40:3

→ Prophetic

See PSALMS, PROPHETIC

→ Spiritual, singing of, enjoined Eph 5:19; Col 3:16

→ Of praise

See PRAISE

→ See PSALMS, PRAISE

→ See PSALMS, THANKSGIVING

→ See THANKFULNESS

→ Of redemption Re 5:9,10

→ Of the redeemed Re 14:2,3-5

→ Of thanksgiving

¿ not these [nations] all of them on him a saying will they lift up and a mocking song riddles to him so may someone say? woe to! the [one who] increases [that which] not [belongs] to him until when? and [one who] makes heavy on himself pledge[s]
חִיד֣וֹתchi.Dot riddles H2420 Noun common · feminine plural absolute
17× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
A riddle or puzzle is what this Hebrew word represents, often used to describe difficult questions or perplexing sayings. It appears in the Bible as a way to convey complex ideas or challenge people's thinking, such as in the story of Samson and Delilah.
Amplified meaning
contempt, disrespect
Tyndale gloss
riddle
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

חִידָה (chiydah) means 'riddle' or 'perplexing question.' It can refer to enigmatic sayings, dark utterances, or difficult questions, often used in a context of testing someone's wisdom, as seen in the story of the Queen of Sheba and Solomon. The word is derived from a root meaning 'to puzzle' and can also imply trickery or double-dealing.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

חִידָה n.f. riddle, enigmatic, perplexing saying or question

riddle = dark, obscure utterance

riddle, enigma, to be guessed

perplexing questions by which queen of Sheba put Sol. to the test

skilled in double-dealing

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H2420 חִידָה

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

2420 chiydah khee-daw'

from 2330; a puzzle, hence, a trick, conundrum, sententious

maxim:--dark saying (sentence, speech), hard question,

proverb, riddle.

see HEBREW for 02330

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

חִידָה (chi.dah) — riddle.

1) riddle, difficult question, parable, enigmatic saying or question, perplexing saying or question

1a) riddle (dark obscure utterance)

1b) riddle, enigma (to be guessed)

1c) perplexing questions (difficult)

1d) double dealing (with 'havin')

Aramaic equivalent: a.chi.dah (אֲחִידָה "riddle" H0280)

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
N-fp — Noun common · feminine plural absolute
HNcfpa
Bible dictionarieson the English sense
Thompson Chain Reference topics
The company it keepswords that stand beside it more often than chance
¿ not these [nations] all of them on him a saying will they lift up and a mocking song riddles to him so may someone say? woe to! the [one who] increases [that which] not [belongs] to him until when? and [one who] makes heavy on himself pledge[s]
ל֑וֹlo to him H9033 Preposition · suffix
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

וֹ (o) — him.

Personal object pronoun - suffix for propositions and verbs without an object: 3rd person masculine singular

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
HR/Sp3ms — Preposition · suffix
HR/Sp3ms
¿ not these [nations] all of them on him a saying will they lift up and a mocking song riddles to him so may someone say? woe to! the [one who] increases [that which] not [belongs] to him until when? and [one who] makes heavy on himself pledge[s]
וְיֹאמַ֗רve.yo.Mar so may someone say? H559 Conjunction · verb qal third person masculine singular
5,309× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
This Hebrew word means to say or speak, and it's used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to command, promise, or think, and it's translated in the KJV as 'answer', 'appoint', or 'command'.
Tyndale gloss
to say
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

אָמַר (amar) is a Hebrew verb meaning 'to say' or 'to utter,' with a broad range of uses including to promise, command, or even boast. It appears in various forms, such as in the Qal (to say), Niphal (to be told), and Hiphil (to avow). The entries highlight its versatility in both spoken and internal contexts, though no specific verse is noted.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

אָמַר 5287 vb. utter, say

Qal

Say

Say in the heart (= think)

Promise

Command (esp. late)

Niph. be said, told

Hiph. avow, avouch (lit. cause to declare)

Hithp. act proudly, boast

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H559 אָמַר utter, say .. Say

. Say in the heart (= think)

. Promise

. Command (esp. late)

. be said, told

. avow, avouch (lit. cause to declare)

. act proudly, boast

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

559 'amar aw-mar'

a primitive root; to say (used with great

latitude):--answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call,

certify, challenge, charge, + (at the, give) command(-ment),

commune, consider, declare, demand, X desire, determine, X

expressly, X indeed, X intend, name, X plainly, promise,

publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), X still, X

suppose, talk, tell, term, X that is, X think, use (speech),

utter, X verily, X yet.

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

אָמַר (a.mar) — to say.

1) to say, speak, utter

1a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend

1b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called

1c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly

1d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch

Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (אֲמַר "to say" H0560)

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
Conj | V-Qal-Imperf-3ms — Conjunction · verb qal third person masculine singular
HC/Vqu3ms
The company it keepswords that stand beside it more often than chance
¿ not these [nations] all of them on him a saying will they lift up and a mocking song riddles to him so may someone say? woe to! the [one who] increases [that which] not [belongs] to him until when? and [one who] makes heavy on himself pledge[s]
ה֚וֹיHo woe to! H1945 Particle
51× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
Hoy is an expression of sadness or pain, like saying oh or woe. It's used to show strong emotions, and is often translated as alas or woe in the KJV Bible. This word conveys a sense of lament or regret.
Amplified meaning
a cry of sorrow, a lament
Tyndale gloss
woe!
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

הוֹי (hoy) is an interjection expressing dissatisfaction and pain, often translated as 'ah,' 'alas,' or 'woe.' It is used in lamentations and conveys a sense of sorrow or distress. The word is a prolonged form of another Hebrew term, indicating its emotional weight.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

הוֹי 81 interj. expressing usually dissatisfaction and pain, Ah, Alas, Ha (not distinctly Woe!) used in lamentations

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H1945 הוֹי expressing usually dissatisfaction and pain, Ah, Alas, Ha (not distinctly Woe!) used in lamentations

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

1945 howy hoh'ee

a prolonged form of 1930 (akin to 188); oh!:--ah, alas, ho,

O, woe.

see HEBREW for 01930

see HEBREW for 0188

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

הוֹי (hoy) — woe!.

ah!, alas!, ha!, ho!, O!, woe!

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
Part — Particle
HTj
Bible dictionarieson the English sense
American Tract Society Bible Dictionary

Is sometimes used in our Bibles where a softer expression would be at least equally proper: "Woe to such a one!" is in our language a threat or imprecation of some calamity, natural or judicial, to befall a person; but this is not always the meaning of the word in Scripture. We find the expression, "Woe is me!" that is, Alas for my sufferings! And, "Woe to the women with child, and those who give suck!" that is, Alas for their redoubled sufferings in times of distress! If in the denunciatory language of Christ, we should read, "Alas for thee, Chorazin! Alas for thee, Bethsaida!" we should do not injustice to the general sentiments of the passage.

Yet in many cases the word woe is used in a fuller and more awful sense, expressing an inspired denunciation and foreshadowing of God’s wrath upon sinners; as when we read, "Woe to those who build houses by unrighteousness, and cities by blood;"…

¿ not these [nations] all of them on him a saying will they lift up and a mocking song riddles to him so may someone say? woe to! the [one who] increases [that which] not [belongs] to him until when? and [one who] makes heavy on himself pledge[s]
הַמַּרְבֶּ֣הha.mar.Beh the [one who] increases H7235 Particle · verb hiphil participle (active) masculine singular
227× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
This word means to increase or grow, like a plant shooting up. It is used in the Bible to describe something getting bigger or more abundant. The KJV translates it as abundance or bring up.
Amplified meaning
gathers, accumulates
Tyndale gloss
to multiply
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

רָבָה (rabah) is a Hebrew verb meaning to increase or multiply, encompassing ideas of becoming great, numerous, or abundant. It has various forms, including Qal (to become many), Piel (to make large), and Hiphil (to make much). The word also appears in a context related to shooting in Genesis 21:20. There is a noted Aramaic equivalent, רְבָה.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

[רָבָה] 225 vb. be, or become, much, many, great

Qal 59

become many, numerous

be great

grow great (Aramaism)

Pi. 4 make large, increase

Hiph. 162

make much or many

make great, obj. pers.

base

[רָבָה] vb. shoot;—only Qal Gn 21:20

ref

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H7235a רָבָה be, or become, much, many, great .. become many, numerous

. . be great

. grow great (Aramaism)

. make large, increase

. . make much or many

. make great, obj. pers.

H7235b רָבָה shoot

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

7235 rabah raw-baw'

a primitive root; to increase (in whatever respect):--(bring

in) abundance (X -antly), + archer (by mistake for 7232), be

in authority, bring up, X continue, enlarge, excel,

exceeding(-ly), be full of, (be, make) great(-er, -ly,

X -ness), grow up, heap, increase, be long, (be, give, have,

make, use) many (a time), (any, be, give, give the, have) more

(in number), (ask, be, be so, gather, over, take, yield) much

(greater, more), (make to) multiply, nourish, plenty(-eous), X

process (of time), sore, store, thoroughly, very.

see HEBREW for 07232

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

רָבָה (ra.vah) — to multiply.

1) be or become great, be or become many, be or become much, be or become numerous

1a) (Qal)

1a1) to become many, become numerous, multiply (of people, animals, things)

1a2) to be or grow great

1b) (Piel) to make large, enlarge, increase, become many

1c) (Hiphil)

1c1) to make much, make many, have many

1c1a) to multiply, increase

1c1b) to make much to do, do much in respect of, transgress greatly

1c1c) to increase greatly or exceedingly

1c2) to make great, enlarge, do much

Aramaic equivalent: re.vah (רְבָה "to grow great" H7236)

רָבָה (ra.vah) — to shoot.

(Qal) to shoot

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
Art | V-Hiphil — Particle · verb hiphil participle (active) masculine singular
HTd/Vhrmsa
¿ not these [nations] all of them on him a saying will they lift up and a mocking song riddles to him so may someone say? woe to! the [one who] increases [that which] not [belongs] to him until when? and [one who] makes heavy on himself pledge[s]
לֹּא־lo'- [that which] not H3808 Particle
5,170× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.
Amplified meaning
what belongs to others, unjust gain
Tyndale gloss
not
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

לֹא (lo') is a Hebrew word meaning 'not' or 'no.' It serves as a simple negation and can imply absence or prohibition. The word can also be used in various contexts, often combined with other particles for emphasis or clarification. Its Aramaic equivalent is לָא (la), which also means 'not.'

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

לֹא or לוֹא adv. not

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H3808 לֹא or לוֹא not

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

3808 lo' lo

or lowi {lo}; or loh (Deut. 3:11) {lo}; a primitive particle;

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often

used with other particles (as follows):--X before, + or else,

ere, + except, ig(-norant), much, less, nay, neither, never,

no((-ne), -r, (-thing)), (X as though...,(can-), for) not (out

of), of nought, otherwise, out of, + surely, + as truly as, +

of a truth, + verily, for want, + whether, without.

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

לֹא (lo) — not.

1) not, no

1a) not (with verb-absolute prohibition)

1b) not (with modifier-negation)

1c) nothing (subst)

1d) without (with particle)

1e) before (of time)

Aramaic equivalent: la (לָא "not" H3809)

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
Part — Particle
HTn
The company it keepswords that stand beside it more often than chance
¿ not these [nations] all of them on him a saying will they lift up and a mocking song riddles to him so may someone say? woe to! the [one who] increases [that which] not [belongs] to him until when? and [one who] makes heavy on himself pledge[s]
ל֔וֹlo [belongs] to him H9033 Preposition · suffix
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

וֹ (o) — him.

Personal object pronoun - suffix for propositions and verbs without an object: 3rd person masculine singular

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
HR/Sp3ms — Preposition · suffix
HR/Sp3ms
¿ not these [nations] all of them on him a saying will they lift up and a mocking song riddles to him so may someone say? woe to! the [one who] increases [that which] not [belongs] to him until when? and [one who] makes heavy on himself pledge[s]
עַד־'ad- until H5704 Preposition
1,261× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
This Hebrew word means until or as far as, describing a point in time or space. It's used in the Bible to set boundaries or limits, like in Exodus when describing the Israelites' journey.
Tyndale gloss
till
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

עַד (ad) primarily functions as a preposition, adverb, or conjunction meaning 'until,' 'up to,' or 'as far as.' It can denote spatial, temporal, or degree-related contexts, such as 'even to' or 'while.' The entries indicate its use in poetry and in various combinations, but there is no significant disagreement among the lexicons regarding its meanings.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

עַד, in poetry עֲדֵי prep. as far as, even to, up to, until, while

prep.

of space

Of time

Of degree

conj.

until

While

Of degree, to the point that, so that even (rare)

עַד לְ, a strengthened form for עַד. Thus

of space

Of time

Of degree

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H5704 עַד, in poetry עֲדֵי as far as, even to, up to, until, while . prep. . of space

. Of time

. Of degree

. conj. . until

. While

. Of degree, to the point that, so that even (rare)

. עַד לְ, a strengthened form for עַד. Thus . of space

. Of time

. Of degree

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

5704 `ad ad

properly, the same as 5703 (used as a preposition, adverb or

conjunction; especially with a preposition); as far (or long,

or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during,

while, until) or degree (equally with):--against, and, as,

at, before, by (that), even (to), for(-asmuch as),

(hither-)to, + how long, into, as long (much) as, (so) that,

till, toward, until, when, while, (+ as) yet.

see HEBREW for 05703

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

עַד (ad) — till.

prep

1) as far as, even to, until, up to, while, as far as

1a) of space

1a1) as far as, up to, even to

1b) in combination

1b1) from...as far as, both...and (with 'min' -from)

1c) of time

1c1) even to, until, unto, till, during, end

1d) of degree

1d1) even to, to the degree of, even like

conj

2) until, while, to the point that, so that even

Aramaic equivalent: ad (עַד "till" H5705)

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
Prep — Preposition
HR
¿ not these [nations] all of them on him a saying will they lift up and a mocking song riddles to him so may someone say? woe to! the [one who] increases [that which] not [belongs] to him until when? and [one who] makes heavy on himself pledge[s]
מָתַ֕יma.Tai when? H4970 Particle
43× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means 'when' or 'how long', often used to ask about time or duration, like in Genesis when asking how long a task will take.
Amplified meaning
until when, for how much longer, continue, persist
Tyndale gloss
how
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

מָתַי (mathay) is an adverb meaning 'when?' It is derived from an unused root that suggests extension, particularly in relation to time. The word is used interrogatively to ask about timeframes, such as 'how long?' or 'until when?'. It appears in contexts that require a temporal inquiry.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

מָתַי 43 interrog.adv. when?

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H4970 מָתַי when?

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

4970 mathay maw-thah'ee

from an unused root meaning to extend; properly, extent (of

time); but used only adverbially (especially with other

particle prefixes), when (either relative or

interrogative):--long, when.

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

מָתַי (ma.tay) — how.

1) when?

1a) with prep

1a1) against when?, until when?, how long?, after how long?

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
Part — Particle
HTi
¿ not these [nations] all of them on him a saying will they lift up and a mocking song riddles to him so may someone say? woe to! the [one who] increases [that which] not [belongs] to him until when? and [one who] makes heavy on himself pledge[s]
וּמַכְבִּ֥ידu.makh.Bid and [one who] makes heavy H3513 Conjunction · verb hiphil participle (active) masculine singular
113× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
This word can mean to honor or make something weighty, like when God is glorified in Psalm 138, or to be heavy with burdens, as the Israelites were in Exodus 18.
Amplified meaning
wealthy, prosperous
Tyndale gloss
to honor: honour
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

The Hebrew word כָּבֵד (kabad) is built from a primitive root meaning 'to be heavy.' It covers a range of meanings, including being burdensome, weighty, or honorable. The word can describe both a negative sense of heaviness or dullness and a positive sense of honor or glory. It appears in various forms, such as making oneself heavy or being made honorable.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

כָּבֵד vb. be heavy, weighty, burdensome, honoured

Qal

be heavy, in weight

heavy, insensible, dull

be honoured

Niph.

pass.

be made heavy fr. abundance

be honoured, enjoy honour, of man

medial, get oneself glory (or honour), of God

Pi.

make heavy, insensible

make honourable, honour, glorify, usu. c. human subj.

Pu. be made honourable, honoured

Hiph.

make heavy

make heavy, dull, unresponsive, the ears

cause to be honoured

Hithp.

make oneself heavy, dense, numerous

honour oneself

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H3513 כָּבֵד be heavy, weighty, burdensome, honoured .. be heavy, in weight

. heavy, insensible, dull

. be honoured

. . pass. . be made heavy fr. abundance

. be honoured, enjoy honour, of man

. medial, get oneself glory (or honour), of God

. . make heavy, insensible

. make honourable, honour, glorify, usu. c. human subj.

. be made honourable, honoured

. . make heavy

. make heavy, dull, unresponsive, the ears

. cause to be honoured

. . make oneself heavy, dense, numerous

. honour oneself

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

3513 kabad kaw-bad'

or kabed {kaw-bade'}; a primitive root; to be heavy, i.e. in

a bad sense (burdensome, severe, dull) or in a good sense

(numerous, rich, honorable; causatively, to make weighty (in

the same two senses):--abounding with, more grievously

afflict, boast, be chargeable, X be dim, glorify, be (make)

glorious (things), glory, (very) great, be grievous, harden,

be (make) heavy, be heavier, lay heavily, (bring to, come to,

do, get, be had in) honour (self), (be) honourable (man),

lade, X more be laid, make self many, nobles, prevail, promote

(to honour), be rich, be (go) sore, stop.

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

כָּבֵד (ka.vad) — to honor: honour.

: honour/glory

1) to be heavy, be weighty, be grievous, be hard, be rich, be honourable, be glorious, be burdensome, be honoured

1a) (Qal)

1a1) to be heavy

1a2) to be heavy, be insensible, be dull

1a3) to be honoured

1b) (Niphal)

1b1) to be made heavy, be honoured, enjoy honour, be made abundant

1b2) to get oneself glory or honour, gain glory

1c) (Piel)

1c1) to make heavy, make dull, make insensible

1c2) to make honourable, honour, glorify

1d) (Pual) to be made honourable, be honoured

1e) (Hiphil)

1e1) to make heavy

1e2) to make heavy, make dull, make unresponsive

1e3) to cause to be honoured

1f) (Hithpael)

1f1) to make oneself heavy, make oneself dense, make oneself numerous

1f2) to honour oneself

כָּבֵד (ka.vad) — to honor: heavy.

: heavy/severe

1) to be heavy, be weighty, be grievous, be hard, be rich, be honourable, be glorious, be burdensome, be honoured

Read the full entry →
Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
Conj | V-Hiphil — Conjunction · verb hiphil participle (active) masculine singular
HC/Vhrmsa
¿ not these [nations] all of them on him a saying will they lift up and a mocking song riddles to him so may someone say? woe to! the [one who] increases [that which] not [belongs] to him until when? and [one who] makes heavy on himself pledge[s]
עָלָ֖יו'a.Lav on himself H5921 Preposition · suffix
5,774× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.
Tyndale gloss
upon
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

The Hebrew word עַל (*al*) is a preposition meaning 'upon' and encompasses a wide range of meanings, including 'on account of,' 'beside,' 'above,' and 'against.' It can indicate physical placement, emotional burdens, or duties imposed on a person. The entries also note its use in idiomatic expressions and with verbs of motion. There is a mention of its function as a conjunction in certain contexts.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

כִּי עַל כֵּן forasmuch as

base

עַל, עָ֑ל

subst. height

As prep. upon, and hence on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against

Upon, of the substratum upon which an object in any way rests, or on which an action is performed

of clothing, etc., which any one wears

With verbs of covering or protecting, even though the cover or veil be not over or above the thing covered, but around or before it

Of what rests heavily upon a person, or is a burden to him

Of a duty, payment, care, etc., imposed upon a person, or devolving on him

על is used idiom. to give pathos to the expression of an emotion, by emphasizing the person who is its subject, and who, as it were, feels it acting upon him

חָיָה עַל to live upon (as upon a foundation or support)

Read the full entry →
Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H5921a עַל, עָ֑ל . As prep. upon, and hence on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against . Upon, of the substratum upon which an object in any way rests, or on which an action is performed . — . of clothing, etc., which any one wears

. With verbs of covering or protecting, even though the cover or veil be not over or above the thing covered, but around or before it

. Of what rests heavily upon a person, or is a burden to him

. Of a duty, payment, care, etc., imposed upon a person, or devolving on him

. על is used idiom. to give pathos to the expression of an emotion, by emphasizing the person who is its subject, and who, as it were, feels it acting upon him

. חָיָה עַל to live upon (as upon a foundation or support)

Read the full entry →
Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

5921 `al al

properly, the same as 5920 used as a preposition (in the

singular or plural often with prefix, or as conjunction with a

particle following); above, over, upon, or against (yet always

in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great

variety of applications (as follow):--above, according

to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, X as, at, because

of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, X both

and, by (reason of), X had the charge of, concerning for, in

(that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-)on, over, than,

through(-out), to, touching, X with.

see HEBREW for 05920

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

עַל (al) — upon.

prep

1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against

1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards

1b) above, beyond, over (of excess)

1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence)

1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition)

1e) over (of suspension or extension)

1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity)

1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion)

1h) to (as a dative)

[כִּי] עַל [כֵּן] ([ki] al [ken]) — as.

conj

Read the full entry →
Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
HR/Sp3ms — Preposition · suffix
HR/Sp3ms
The company it keepswords that stand beside it more often than chance
¿ not these [nations] all of them on him a saying will they lift up and a mocking song riddles to him so may someone say? woe to! the [one who] increases [that which] not [belongs] to him until when? and [one who] makes heavy on himself pledge[s]
עַבְטִֽיט׃'av.Tit pledge[s] H5671 Noun common · masculine singular absolute
1× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
A debt is something owed to someone, like the heavy debts mentioned in the Bible. This word describes the weight of pledges or pawned goods, showing the burden of owing something to someone else.
Amplified meaning
pledges, debts, usury
Tyndale gloss
debt
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

עַבְטִיט (abtiyt) refers to something pledged, particularly in the context of pawned goods or heavy debts. It is derived from the root word for 'pledge' and is noted in Habakkuk 2:6. The term emphasizes the weight or burden of these financial obligations.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

עַבְטִיט n.[m.]intens. weight of pledges, heavy debts;—abs. Hb 2:6.

ref

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H5671 עַבְטִיט

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

5671 `abtiyt ab-teet'

from 5670; something pledged, i.e. (collectively) pawned

goods:--thick clay (by a false etym.).

see HEBREW for 05670

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

עַבְטִיט (av.tit) — debt.

weight of pledges, heavy debts

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
N-ms — Noun common · masculine singular absolute
HNcmsa
Sources on this page. Lexicons and dictionaries imported from the CrossWire SWORD modules — Abbott-Smith, Strong's, Dodson, the Intermediate Liddell-Scott-Jones, Robinson and Packard, Webster and Cawdrey. Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament (Harper, 1889 — Grimm’s Wilke’s Clavis Novi Testamenti, translated, revised and enlarged by Joseph Henry Thayer) is public domain and is set here from the Internet Archive page scan greekenglishlex00grim; it is uncorrected OCR, marked as such on the entry itself, and the Strong’s numbers — which Thayer’s own edition does not carry — were matched by lemma against the other modules on this page. Trench’s Synonyms of the New Testament (Macmillan, 1880) and Moulton and Milligan’s Vocabulary of the Greek Testament (Hodder & Stoughton, 1930, which entered the United States public domain on 1 January 2026) are set from Internet Archive page scans synonymsofnewtes00treniala and vocabularyofgree00mouluoft, and are likewise uncorrected OCR matched to Strong’s numbers by lemma. Trench treats a group of words at once, so the same essay stands on the page of each word it compares. The Mounce Concise Greek-English Dictionary is © 1993 and is used here by permission for non-commercial use, www.teknia.com/greek-dictionary. The full Liddell-Scott-Jones and the Hebrew word data (TAHOT) come from STEPBible.org, CC BY 4.0. Brown-Driver-Briggs is the OpenScriptures digitisation, public domain. Syntax analysis is the Nestle 1904 Lowfat treebank (biblicalhumanities.org); the concordance and morphology are built from the tagged Nestle 1904 text. Septuagint occurrences use the Open Scriptures Septuagint lemma index, derived from CCAT (University of Pennsylvania) and the Rahlfs 1935 dataset by Eliran Wong, CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 — used here on a non-commercial ministry site. Greek of Josephus and Barnabas from the Perseus Digital Library, CC BY-SA 4.0. Commentaries and the Ante-Nicene Fathers are public-domain texts hosted on this site. Everyday Greek from the Duke Databank of Documentary Papyri, CC BY 3.0, with dates and provenance from the Heidelberger Gesamtverzeichnis. Philo and the Apostolic Fathers from Open Greek and Latin (First1KGreek), CC BY-SA 4.0. The apparatus and the fifth Greek column are the SBL Greek New Testament, © 2010 SBL and Logos Bible Software, CC BY 4.0. The Latin is the Clementine Vulgate (public domain); the Syriac New Testament is the ETCBC edition (MIT licence). The Hebrew behind the Greek is computed here from the Septuagint index and TAHOT, not taken from any aligned edition. The translation spread and the per-word edition marks come from the Translators Amalgamated Greek NT (STEPBible, CC BY 4.0); clause roles from the Nestle 1904 Lowfat treebank (CC BY-SA 4.0); place identifications and their confidence from OpenBible.info Bible Geocoding (CC BY 4.0), with map tiles © OpenStreetMap contributors. Gospel parallels are computed here from shared uncommon vocabulary, not taken from any printed harmony. Cross references are the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge and the subject headings are Nave’s Topical Bible, both public domain. Works under Creative Commons licences are used unchanged apart from markup removal.

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