לוּץ

לוּץ

properly, to make mouths at, i.e. to scoff; hence (from the effort to pronounce a foreign language) to interpret

Definition

The Hebrew word לוּץ (lûwts) primarily means 'to scoff' or 'to mock,' describing a scornful, arrogant attitude that rejects wisdom and correction, as seen in the description of the wicked in Psalm 1:1 and Proverbs 1:22. A secondary, derived meaning is 'to interpret' or 'to mediate,' referring to someone who translates or explains between parties, such as the interpreter in Genesis 42:23 between Joseph and his brothers, or a heavenly mediator in Job 33:23. This range connects the idea of contemptuous speech with the act of bridging a communication gap.

Biblical Usage

It is used most frequently in the Wisdom Literature (Proverbs, Psalms, Job) to describe the 'mocker' or 'scoffer' who is morally foolish and opposed to God's wisdom (Proverbs 3:34, Proverbs 21:24). The rarer meaning of 'interpreter' or 'mediator' appears in narrative (Genesis 42:23) and poetic contexts (Job 16:20, Job 33:23), and the related sense of 'ambassador' occurs in 2 Chronicles 32:31.

Etymology

A primitive root. Its core meaning relates to 'making mouths at' or speaking derisively. The development to 'interpret' likely stems from the physical effort or facial contortions involved in speaking a foreign language, thus one who 'makes mouths' to translate.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it sharply contrasts the way of the wicked with the way of the righteous. The 'scoffer' (לֵץ) represents the archetypal fool who actively despises wisdom and God's correction, a central theme in biblical wisdom. Conversely, its use for 'interpreter' or 'mediator' (Job 33:23) points to the need for a go-between, foreshadowing the concept of divine mediation and, ultimately, Christ's intercessory role. In ancient Near Eastern culture, mocking was not merely rude speech but a serious social and moral transgression, indicating deep arrogance and a rejection of communal wisdom and divine order. An interpreter was a vital figure in diplomacy and commerce, bridging cultures where no common language existed. לָעַג (lāʿag, H3932) — to mock or deride, often with a focus on open scorn and ridicule. בּוּז (bûz, H936) — to despise or hold in contempt, a broader term for disdain. יָרַב (yārab, H7378) — to contend or dispute, related to legal mediation, differing from לוץ's linguistic mediation.

Word Details