מַפֶּ֫לֶת (map.pe.let)
map.pe.let
carcass
H:N-FQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-F
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun mappelet primarily denotes a carcass or the remains of a dead animal. It appears in only two verses in the Old Testament, carrying a stark, physical image of lifelessness. In Judges 14:8, it describes the body of the lion that Samson killed, which later served as the source of honey for his riddle.
Beyond its literal sense of a dead body, the word extends metaphorically to mean ruin or overthrow. This figurative usage suggests a complete collapse, whether of structures or fortunes. The term conveys not just death, but the aftermath of destruction, leaving behind what remains after the event has passed.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word mappelet paints a stark picture of what remains after life has departed. It refers to the carcass of an animal, leaving behind only the physical remains. In Judges 14:8, this image is striking because Samson finds honey swarming within the dead lion’s body. This unexpected detail shows that even in places of death and decay, God can provide sweetness and life.
While the term often signifies ruin or destruction, as seen in Proverbs 29:16 where it describes the downfall of the wicked, it also points to a deeper reality. The righteous observe these events not with gloom, but with a clear understanding of justice. The word reminds us that earthly power is temporary, and true stability comes from aligning with God’s ways.
When we face seasons where things seem broken or lost, this imagery offers a quiet hope. Just as honey appeared in the lion’s carcass, God often brings provision out of unexpected places. We are invited to look past the surface of destruction and trust that life can emerge from what seems final.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- on/ overthrow/ their1×
- [the] carcass of1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- מַפֶּ֣לֶת1×
- בְּֽ/מַפַּלְתָּ֥/ם1×
Key Verses
-
Judges 14:8
After a while he returned to take her, and he went over to see the carcass of the lion; and behold, there was a swarm of bees in the body of the lion, and honey.
This verse highlights the surprising presence of honey within the carcass, showing God’s provision in a place of death.
-
Proverbs 29:16
When the wicked increase, sin increases; but the righteous will see their downfall.
Here the word signifies the downfall of the wicked, illustrating the contrast between temporary power and lasting righteousness.