Short Answer
Complete Explanation
The term “confounded” in Scripture conveys the idea of being mixed up, bewildered, or rendered ineffective. In the Hebrew Bible it derives from the root בָּלַל (balal), which means “to mix, confuse, or cause disorder.” In the Greek New Testament the equivalent word is συγχυσίς (synchysis), also signifying confusion or mingling. The word is used in several contexts, ranging from God confusing the language at Babel (Genesis 11:7) to describing the moral and spiritual bewilderment of people who reject divine truth (Romans 1:18). While some English translations render the word as “shamed,” the primary nuance is that of confusion or loss of proper order rather than personal embarrassment.
- Original language roots:
Hebrew בָּלַל (balal) – to mix, confuse; Greek συγχυσίς (synchysis) – confusion, mingling. - Key biblical passages:
Genesis 11:7 (Babel), Psalm 9:7, Isaiah 53:6, Romans 1:18, Galatians 5:11. - Theological nuance:
Confounded often signals divine judgment that disrupts human plans or highlights the chaotic result of rejecting God’s order.
Common Misconceptions
Confounded always means “ashamed.”
The primary meaning is confusion or disorder; “ashamed” is a secondary sense in a few translations.
The word appears only in the Old Testament.
It also occurs in the New Testament, derived from the Greek term for confusion.
FAQ
Is “confounded” used as a punishment in the Bible?
Yes, it often denotes a divine act that disrupts human plans, such as the confusion of languages at Babel, reflecting judgment.
Does “confounded” always carry a negative connotation?
Generally it indicates a negative state of disorder or bewilderment, though the term can simply describe confusion without moral judgment.
How do modern translations handle the word “confounded”?
Many modern versions translate it as “confused,” “perplexed,” or “shamed” depending on context, aiming to reflect the original nuance of disorder.
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