לֶ֫קַח (le.qach)
le.qach
teaching
H:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 9 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-M
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun leqach refers to something that has been taken or received, specifically in the context of instruction and wisdom. In the Old Testament, it denotes the act of learning as well as the material taught itself. This word appears primarily in poetic and wisdom literature, such as Proverbs, Job, and Isaiah, where it highlights the value of absorbing divine insight.
Its meaning extends beyond simple data retention to include practical understanding and persuasive power. The sources note that leqach can describe the "teaching-power" or effectiveness of wise words, suggesting that true instruction carries weight and influence. For instance, in Proverbs 1:5, it is associated with the growth of wisdom for those who listen, while Isaiah 28:9 uses it to mock those who treat serious teaching as mere childish babble.
Etymologically, leqach derives from a root meaning "to take," implying that wisdom is not passively observed but actively acquired. It requires the learner to seize hold of truth and make it their own. This active dimension distinguishes it from passive knowledge, framing learning as a deliberate choice to accept guidance and apply it to life.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Hebrew word leqach reminds us that wisdom is not a passive receipt but an active pursuit. Derived from a root meaning 'to take,' it suggests that true understanding requires us to seize hold of truth and make it our own. It is the difference between hearing noise and receiving guidance that shapes how we live.
In Proverbs 4:2, this concept appears as sound learning given with care. The text invites us to value instruction not merely as information, but as a practical tool for navigating life. When we approach teaching with humility, we allow these words to influence our decisions and character.
Consider the promise in Proverbs 9:9: instructing a wise person leads them to be even wiser. This growth happens when we remain open to correction and insight. May you find joy in receiving guidance that helps you walk more steadily in faith each day.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 9 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- teaching/ my2×
- teaching2×
- instruction2×
- insight2×
- persuasiveness/ her1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- לֶֽקַח\׃3×
- לֶֽקַח\׃\ \פ1×
- לֶ֣קַח1×
- לֶ֑קַח1×
- לִקְחָ֑/הּ1×
- לִקְחִ֔/י1×
- לִקְחִ֑/י1×
Key Verses
-
Proverbs 4:2
for I give you sound learning. Don’t forsake my law.
This verse identifies the teaching as 'sound learning,' emphasizing its reliability and value for daily living rather than abstract theory.
-
Proverbs 9:9
Instruct a wise person, and he will be still wiser. Teach a righteous person, and he will increase in learning.
Here the word describes the result of instruction, showing that wisdom is dynamic and grows when we remain teachable.
-
Isaiah 29:24
They also who err in spirit will come to understanding, and those who grumble will receive instruction.”
The text links receiving this teaching with the removal of error and grumbling, highlighting its power to correct a troubled spirit.