מוֹקֵשׁ

מוֹקֵשׁ

a noose (for catching animals) (literally or figuratively); by implication, a hook (for the nose)

Definition

The Hebrew noun מוֹקֵשׁ (môwqêsh) primarily refers to a 'snare' or 'trap' used for catching animals, such as a noose or a hidden device that springs shut. This literal meaning is extended figuratively throughout the Old Testament to describe anything that entraps or leads people into sin, ruin, or idolatry, often representing the influence of foreign nations or false gods (e.g., Exodus 23:33, Deuteronomy 7:16). In a vivid metaphorical extension, the word is also used for a 'hook' put in the nose, symbolizing complete control and subjugation (2 Kings 19:28, Ezekiel 19:4). Thus, the term powerfully conveys the ideas of hidden danger, enticement to sin, and total domination.

Biblical Usage

The word is used 27 times, predominantly in the historical books (Exodus, Deuteronomy, Joshua, Judges, Samuel, Kings) and the Prophets. Its usage consistently warns against the spiritual and political dangers of alliances with foreign nations and their gods, which are described as a 'snare' to Israel (Judges 2:3, Psalm 106:36). It describes both literal traps for animals (Amos 3:5) and the figurative entrapment caused by personal sin or idolatry, as with Gideon's ephod (Judges 8:27) or Saul's desire to use his daughter Michal as a 'snare' for David (1 Samuel 18:21).

Etymology

The noun מוֹקֵשׁ derives from the root verb יָקֹשׁ (yāqōsh, H3369), which means 'to lay a bait or snare,' 'to lure,' or 'to ensnare.' This root conveys the action of setting a trap. The noun form, therefore, denotes the trap or snare itself. Cognates exist in other Semitic languages, reinforcing the core idea of a concealed device for capture.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as a key metaphor for sin and idolatry in the Old Testament. It underscores the deceptive and entrapping nature of turning from Yahweh, warning that what may seem attractive or politically expedient (like foreign alliances) can become a spiritual trap leading to judgment. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches the reading of passages about God's commands for separation and holiness, highlighting His protective intent for His people. It connects to the doctrine of sin's deceitfulness and the need for divine wisdom to avoid spiritual pitfalls. In the ancient Near East, animal snares and traps were common hunting tools, making this a very tangible metaphor for the original audience. The image of a 'hook in the nose' was a known symbol of conquest and humiliation, used by Assyrian and Egyptian rulers to depict their control over vanquished enemies. This cultural context makes the biblical warnings against becoming a 'snare' or having a 'hook' put in one's nose powerfully immediate, relating spiritual compromise to well-understood images of capture and subjugation. פַּח (pach, H6341) — a bird-trap or net, often used in parallel with מוֹקֵשׁ, emphasizing sudden capture. רֶשֶׁת (resheth, H7568) — a net, often for fishing or hunting birds, suggesting being surrounded or enveloped. מִכְמָר (mikhmār, H4685) — a fishing net, used in a few places for entrapment.

Word Details