מַלְכֹּ֫דֶת (mal.ko.det)
mal.ko.det
snare
H:N-FQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-F
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun malakodet refers to a physical device used for capturing animals, specifically a snare or trap. Its root concept involves catching or seizing something that has been ensnared. In the biblical text, this word appears only once, in Job 18:10, where it describes a tangible danger set within the ground.
While the term denotes a literal hunting tool, its usage here is figurative. Bildad employs the image of a snare to illustrate the sudden and inescapable peril facing the wicked. The trap lies hidden in the dust, representing threats that are not immediately visible but are ready to seize their victim. This single occurrence anchors the word’s meaning in the context of unexpected judgment or disaster.
The rarity of malakodet highlights its specific function as a vivid metaphor for entrapment. By using a concrete image from daily life, the text conveys the helplessness of one caught in such a device. The word serves to emphasize the suddenness and certainty of the danger described, leaving no room for escape once the mechanism is triggered.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word malakodet describes a snare or trap set in the dust to catch prey. In Job 18:10, Bildad uses this image to show how sudden and hidden dangers can be for those who walk in wickedness. It is not just a physical device but a vivid picture of unexpected peril that leaves no room for escape once triggered.
For your faith, this word reminds us of the importance of walking in wisdom and integrity. Life often holds unseen risks, but trusting in God provides a refuge from these hidden snares. We are invited to seek His guidance daily, so we might avoid the pitfalls that ensnare the careless heart.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ trap/ his1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וּ֝/מַלְכֻּדְתּ֗/וֹ1×
Key Verses
-
Job 18:10
A noose is hidden for him in the ground, a trap for him on the path.
This verse uses the snare as a concrete metaphor for the inescapable and sudden judgment awaiting the wicked.