מַדּוּעַ

From the study of 2 Samuel 11:10

Range of meaning

'Why?' It is often used when the speaker finds something surprising, improper or blameworthy and wants the reason. It can sound like a complaint.

Against the English

English 'why' covers it well. The edge of reproach is carried by the tone, which English readers may not hear.

Used elsewhere in the period

Compare Exod 3:3 ('why is the bush not burnt?') and 2 Sam 12:9, where Nathan asks David, 'Why have you despised the word of YHWH?'

From the study of Exodus 1:18

Range of meaning

'Why? For what reason?' It is formed from mah ('what') and a form related to yada‘ ('know'), roughly 'what is known?'. It often carries reproach or a demand for justification, especially from a superior (Gen 26:27; Exod 2:18; Exod 3:3; Exod 5:14, where Egyptian taskmasters ask the Israelite foremen 'Why have you not completed your quota?').

Against the English

English 'why' is neutral. In this setting maddua‘ is an accusation that requires a defense.

Used elsewhere in the period

Exod 5:14 is a close parallel in the same book: Egyptian officials using maddua‘ to accuse subordinates of failing to carry out royal policy.

From the study of Exodus 2:18

Range of meaning

"Why? For what reason?" It is probably a contraction of mah ("what") + yadua' ("known"), roughly "what is known (about this)?" It asks for an explanation, often of something surprising, troubling or out of the ordinary.

Against the English

KJV, WEB and ESV soften it to "How is it that..."; BSB and YLT keep "Why...". Both carry the meaning. "How is it that" brings out the father's surprise, and "why" brings out that he is asking for a reason.

Used elsewhere in the period

It is used throughout the Hebrew Bible where a speaker is struck by something unexpected. Moses asks "Why is the bush not burned up?" (Exodus 3:3), and Pharaoh's officials are asked "Why are your faces sad today?" (Genesis 40:7, also with hayyom).