קַלָּסָה

קַלָּסָה

ridicule

Definition

קַלָּסָה (qallâçâh) refers to a specific form of severe, public ridicule or mocking. It denotes not just light teasing, but a contemptuous scorn that aims to shame and belittle its target. The word carries an intensive force, implying a deliberate and malicious act of derision. In its sole biblical occurrence, it describes the mockery a nation brings upon itself through its own sinful actions, as seen in Ezekiel 22:4.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the Old Testament, in Ezekiel 22:4. The prophet Ezekiel uses it in a judicial context, declaring that Judah's persistent idolatry, violence, and social injustice have made the nation an object of intense 'ridicule' (qallâçâh) among the surrounding nations. The usage is prophetic and corporate, describing the shameful consequence of national sin.

Etymology

Derived from the root קָלַס (qālaç, H7046), which means 'to scoff' or 'to mock.' The form קַלָּסָה is an intensive noun, indicating a heightened or repeated action. It is related to the concept of 'lightness' or 'trifling' found in the root קָלַל (qālal, H7043), suggesting that mocking treats its target as something of little worth or weight.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it connects human sin with tangible, social consequences. In Ezekiel 22:4, ridicule (qallâçâh) is not merely an emotional reaction from others, but a divinely orchestrated judgment where a nation's covenant rebellion results in public disgrace. It underscores that sin ultimately brings shame and dishonor, damaging a community's witness and standing. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches the reading of Ezekiel by highlighting how seriously God views the corporate sin that profanes His holy name. In the ancient Near Eastern honor-shame culture, public ridicule was a powerful social sanction. To be an object of qallâçâh meant a severe loss of honor and reputation, making a person or nation a byword and a laughingstock. This cultural reality amplifies the prophetic warning in Ezekiel—sin would strip Judah of its dignity and respected status among the nations. לָעַג (lāʿaḡ, H3932) — a broader term for mocking or deriding, often with speech. בּוּז (bûz, H936) — emphasizes contempt or despising, often with an attitude of rejection.

Word Details