בּוּז (buz)

The Hebrew noun buz denotes a deep sense of contempt or scorn. It appears ten times in the Old Testament, primarily within the poetic books of Psalms, Job, and Proverbs. The word captures an attitude of disdain that arises from various human conditions: it can stem from perceived evil, as seen when the wicked look down on the righteous; it may emerge from personal prosperity, leading to arrogance; or it can result from experiencing divine judgment, where one feels despised by others.

This term is not merely mild disrespect but a profound rejection of value. In Job 30:9, for instance, those who are marginalized describe themselves as objects of buz, treated with open ridicule by the community. The sources highlight that this contempt often reflects a broken social or spiritual order, where dignity is stripped away. Translators typically render it as "contempt," "scorn," or "derision," depending on the context. The word underscores how human relationships can fracture under pride or suffering, leaving individuals feeling utterly worthless in the eyes of their peers.

Understanding buz helps readers grasp the emotional weight behind many lament psalms and Job’s complaints. It reveals a reality where social standing is fragile and often abused by those in power. The consistent use of this term across wisdom literature suggests that dealing with scorn is a universal human struggle, one that invites reflection on justice, humility, and the true source of human worth.