לָעַז

to speak in a foreign tongue

Definition

The verb לָעַז (lâʻaz) means to speak in a foreign or unintelligible language. It describes the act of using a tongue that is not one's own native language, often implying a lack of comprehension for the listener. Its sole biblical occurrence is in Psalm 114:1, where it poetically describes the people of Israel being in a land where the language was foreign to them. This usage highlights a state of alienation and distinct identity among a people whose speech marked them as outsiders.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the Old Testament, in Psalm 114:1. The context is a poetic reflection on the Exodus, stating, 'When Israel went out of Egypt, the house of Jacob from a people of strange language.' Here, it characterizes the Egyptians as a people whose speech was foreign and unintelligible to the Israelites, emphasizing their cultural and ethnic separation during their period of bondage.

Etymology

לָעַז is a primitive root verb in Hebrew. It is related to the noun לַעַז (laʻaz, H3934), which means 'a foreign language' or 'barbarous speech.' The root concept centers on speech that is strange or unintelligible, often carrying a connotation of something foreign or other. Cognates appear in other Semitic languages with similar meanings related to unclear or foreign speech.

Semantic Range

Though used only once, this word carries theological weight in highlighting God's act of forming a distinct people. In Psalm 114:1, Israel's origin 'from a people of strange language' underscores their chosen status and separation from the pagan nation of Egypt. It reminds readers that God's redemption involves calling His people out from foreign cultures and identities, establishing them as His own. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches the reading of the Exodus narrative by emphasizing linguistic and cultural alienation as part of Israel's pre-redemptive state.

In the ancient Near East, language was a primary marker of ethnic and national identity. To be among a 'people of strange language' (Psalm 114:1) meant more than just a communication barrier; it signified being a foreigner, an outsider without the rights and belonging of the native population. For Israel in Egypt, this underscored their servile and marginalized status, making God's deliverance an act of bringing them into a place of understanding and covenant relationship.

לַעַג (lāʻag, H3932) — to mock or deride, often with speech. While לָעַז focuses on foreignness, לַעַג focuses on scornful speech. נָכְרִי (nokrî, H5237) — foreign or strange, often describing people or things; לָעַז specifically describes the attribute of their speech.

Word Details

Scripture References