בֹּגְדוֹת (bo.ge.dot)
bo.ge.dot
treachery
H:N-FQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-F
Word Overview
The noun bogdot refers to the quality of treachery or acts of betrayal. It describes a breach of trust that undermines social and religious bonds. The term captures the essence of disloyalty, where one party violates the expectations of fidelity owed to another.
In Scripture, this word appears only once, in Zephaniah 3:4. There it characterizes the priests of Jerusalem as "men of treachery." This usage highlights how religious leaders failed their covenantal duties, turning from faithful service to deceitful behavior that harmed the community they were meant to guide.
The form is a plural abstract noun, emphasizing the pervasive nature of this sin rather than a single incident. It points to a pattern of conduct where loyalty is replaced by cunning and deception. The text uses it to condemn those who should have been pillars of integrity but instead became sources of corruption within the worship community.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word bogdot describes a deep breach of trust, specifically treachery that harms community bonds. It appears only once in the Bible, in Zephaniah 3:4, where it condemns religious leaders for their disloyalty. This rare usage reminds us that spiritual authority carries heavy responsibility. When those meant to guide others act with deceit, the damage extends far beyond personal failure.
For your faith, this word highlights the importance of integrity in leadership and community. It warns against the subtle corruption that can creep into positions of influence. We are called to be people of trust, reflecting God's faithfulness in our own relationships. This passage invites us to examine our own hearts for any hidden disloyalty.
Ultimately, bogdot points to the need for genuine covenant loyalty. It challenges us to build communities where trust is preserved and honesty is valued. By avoiding treachery, we honor God and protect the bonds that hold us together. May we strive to be reliable friends and faithful followers.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- treacheri<es>1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- בֹּֽגְד֑וֹת1×
Key Verses
-
Zephaniah 3:4
Her prophets are arrogant and treacherous people. Her priests have profaned the sanctuary. They have done violence to the law.
This verse uniquely applies the term to priests who profaned the sanctuary, showing how religious leaders can betray their sacred duties.