מָעַל

properly, to cover up; used only figuratively, to act covertly, i.e. treacherously

Definition

The Hebrew word מָעַל (mâʻal) fundamentally means 'to act unfaithfully, treacherously, or deceitfully,' often in the context of a breach of trust. While its literal root sense is 'to cover up,' in biblical usage it exclusively describes covert, faithless actions, particularly violations of covenant obligations or sacred trust. In Levitical law, it specifically denotes a 'trespass' against holy things or the Lord, involving misuse of sanctified items or deception in matters of oath (Leviticus 5:15, 6:2). In narrative contexts, it describes grievous communal sin, as in Achan's violation of the ban at Jericho (Joshua 7:1), and personal betrayal against God, as with Moses and Aaron at Meribah (Deuteronomy 32:51).

Biblical Usage

מָעַל appears 35 times, predominantly in the Pentateuch (especially Leviticus and Numbers) and historical books. Its usage is concentrated in legal texts concerning restitution for sacrilege or deception (Leviticus 5:15-16; Numbers 5:6-7) and in narratives recounting covenant unfaithfulness. It often describes sins against God that also harm the community, requiring confession and atonement (Leviticus 26:40). The word is used in contexts of oath-breaking, misappropriation of devoted things, and secret treachery.

Etymology

A primitive root meaning 'to cover up.' This basic sense evolved to signify acting covertly or under cover, hence 'to act treacherously.' The semantic development moved from a physical act of covering to the figurative idea of concealed, faithless behavior. Cognates in other Semitic languages support the sense of 'to be unfaithful' or 'to betray.'

Semantic Range

מָעַל is theologically significant as it defines sin not merely as a mistake but as a breach of covenant trust—a betrayal of a sacred relationship with God. It underscores that sin against God is often hidden or deceitful, requiring full disclosure and restitution (as in Leviticus 5–6). Understanding this term enriches reading by highlighting the gravity of unfaithfulness in Israel's covenant life and the necessity of honest repentance for restoration.

In ancient Israel's covenant-based society, מָעַל described a severe social and religious offense. It often involved misusing property dedicated to God (like tithes or war spoils), which was viewed as stealing from God Himself and jeopardizing the community's standing. This concept of sacred trespass, requiring guilt offerings, reflects a culture where the boundary between the holy and the common was rigorously maintained, and communal welfare was tied to collective faithfulness.

פָּשַׁע (pāšaʿ, H6588) — emphasizes rebellion or transgression against authority. חָטָא (ḥāṭāʾ, H2398) — the general term for missing the mark or sinning. בָּגַד (bāḡaḏ, H898) — focuses on treachery or deceit, often in interpersonal covenants.

Word Details

Scripture References