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Lashon

hebrew_lexical_term theological_term standard

Hebrew lashon means “tongue,” and by extension may refer to speech or language.

At a Glance

Hebrew lexical term meaning “tongue,” sometimes extended to speech or language.

Key Points

Description

Lashon is a Hebrew term ordinarily rendered “tongue,” and Scripture uses the idea both literally and figuratively. Depending on context, it may refer to the bodily organ, to speech itself, or to a language. Because of that range, it contributes to wider biblical teaching about speech, truthfulness, praise, restraint, and the moral use of words. It is better understood as a lexical term than as a distinct theological headword.

Biblical Context

In the Old Testament, “tongue” language often appears in wisdom, worship, lament, and ethical instruction. The term can describe both the physical tongue and the words a person speaks.

Historical Context

As a Hebrew word, lashon belongs to the ordinary vocabulary of biblical Hebrew rather than to a later doctrinal category. English Bible dictionaries usually discuss its ideas under “tongue,” “speech,” or related topics.

Jewish and Ancient Context

In ancient Jewish usage, language about the tongue could include both literal speech and figurative moral speech. The term itself is primarily lexical, not a separate doctrine.

Primary Key Texts

Secondary Key Texts

Original Language Note

Hebrew לָשׁוֹן (lashon) commonly means “tongue,” and by extension may mean speech or language.

Theological Significance

Lashon helps illuminate the Bible’s teaching on the power and accountability of speech. The tongue may be used for blessing or sin, so Scripture repeatedly calls God’s people to truthful, wise, and reverent speech.

Philosophical Explanation

The term shows how Scripture moves from concrete bodily language to moral and relational meaning. A physical organ becomes a metaphor for communication, character, and responsibility.

Interpretive Cautions

Do not treat lashon as a standalone doctrine. Its meaning must be determined by context, and it should not be overextended beyond its actual Hebrew usage.

Major Views

There is no major doctrinal dispute over the lexical meaning of lashon; differences arise only in how a given context should be translated or applied.

Doctrinal Boundaries

This term belongs under biblical language and speech ethics, not as an independent theological category. It supports doctrine about speech but does not define one on its own.

Practical Significance

Believers should use their words carefully, truthfully, and for blessing rather than harm.

Related Entries

See Also

Data

Machine-readable JSON for Lashon

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