מָזוֹר
treachery, i.e. a plot
Definition
The Hebrew noun מָזוֹר (mâzôwr) primarily denotes 'treachery' or a 'plot'—specifically, a deceptive scheme or act of betrayal. In its sole biblical occurrence in Obadiah 1:7, it describes the treacherous betrayal that Edom will experience from its allies, who will 'set a trap' for them. The word carries a sense of cunning deception and a deliberate turning away from faithfulness. While the KJV translates it as 'wound,' this reflects an older understanding; modern lexicons and translations (like ESV, NIV) consistently render it as 'treachery' or 'plot' in this context, emphasizing the relational betrayal rather than a physical injury.
Biblical Usage
מָזוֹר is used only once in the Old Testament, in Obadiah 1:7. It appears in a prophetic oracle against Edom, describing how its trusted allies will deceive and betray it. The context is one of international relations and covenant betrayal, where supposed friends become enemies. The usage is poetic and prophetic, highlighting the theme of divine retribution—Edom's own treachery against Judah (Obadiah 1:10-14) is met with reciprocal treachery from its partners.
Etymology
מָזוֹר derives from the root זוּר (zûr, H2114), which means 'to be strange, to turn aside.' The noun form develops the sense of 'turning aside' from truth or faithfulness, hence 'treachery' or a 'devious plot.' Cognates in other Semitic languages support meanings related to 'enmity' or 'hostility.' The etymological connection underscores that treachery involves a fundamental deviation from right relationship.
Semantic Range
This word is theologically significant as it illustrates the biblical principle of divine justice, often summarized as 'you reap what you sow' (Galatians 6:7). In Obadiah, Edom's historical treachery against Judah (Psalm 137:7; Obadiah 1:10-14) is met with God-ordained treachery from its own allies. Understanding מָזוֹר enriches reading by highlighting how God administers justice in the realm of human relationships and international affairs, showing that betrayal ultimately returns upon the betrayer.
In ancient Near Eastern culture, alliances and treaties were solemn agreements, often sealed with oaths before deities. Treachery against an ally was not merely a political act but a grave moral and religious violation, inviting divine retribution. The concept in Obadiah would resonate with audiences familiar with the catastrophic consequences of broken covenants. The modern idea of 'treachery' captures the deceit but may lack this weighty covenantal dimension.
בָּגַד (bāgad, H898) — a more common verb for 'to deal treacherously,' often in covenant contexts; מִרְמָה (mirmâ, H4820) — 'deceit' or 'guile,' focusing on cunning deception; שֶׁקֶר (sheqer, H8267) — 'falsehood' or 'lie,' a broader term for untruth.
Word Details
How this works
Hebrew definitions are from Brown-Driver-Briggs (1906) and Strong's Exhaustive Concordance (1890), both public domain. BDB was groundbreaking for its era but reflects 19th-century assumptions about Semitic etymology. Modern scholarship (HALOT, DCH) has revised many entries. Use these definitions as a starting point for exploration, not as the final word on a term's meaning in context.
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