### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kopḗ**, represented by `{{G2871}}`, is a term for **slaughter**. It appears **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Derived from a word meaning "cutting," it specifically denotes carnage.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G2871}}` is in the book of Hebrews, describing the encounter between Melchisedec and Abraham. The text states that Melchisedec, the king of Salem and a priest of God, met Abraham as he was "returning from the **slaughter** of the kings" and offered him a blessing [[Hebrews 7:1]]. This usage firmly places the word in a context of violent, definitive military conflict.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only biblical context in [[Hebrews 7:1]] help define the scene:
* `{{G935}}` **basileús** (a sovereign (abstractly, relatively, or figuratively):--king): This word identifies the royal status of those defeated by Abraham, referring to them as "the **kings**" [[Hebrews 7:1]]. Melchisedec is also identified as a **king**.
* `{{G5290}}` **hypostréphō** (to turn under (behind), i.e. to return (literally or figuratively):--come again, return (again, back again), turn back (again)): This verb describes Abraham’s action immediately following the carnage, as he was **returning** from the slaughter [[Hebrews 7:1]].
* `{{G4876}}` **synantáō** (to meet with; figuratively, to occur:--befall, meet): This term marks the pivotal encounter, specifying that Melchisedec **met** Abraham after the battle [[Hebrews 7:1]].
* `{{G2127}}` **eulogéō** (to speak well of, i.e. (religiously) to bless (thank or invoke a benediction upon, prosper):--bless, praise.): This action immediately follows the meeting, where Melchisedec **blessed** Abraham, providing a stark contrast to the preceding slaughter [[Hebrews 7:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2871}}` is derived entirely from its singular, impactful context.
* **A Prelude to Blessing:** The use of **slaughter** sets a scene of violent conflict, which is immediately followed by a powerful priestly blessing from Melchisedec. This contrast highlights the transition from war to divine favor [[Hebrews 7:1]].
* **Victory as Context:** The term establishes the significance of Abraham's victory. His return from the **slaughter** is not just a detail but the backdrop for his encounter with the priest-king Melchisedec, who validates the event with a blessing [[Hebrews 7:1]].
* **Framing the Priesthood:** The event, framed by the **slaughter** on one side and the blessing on the other, is used in Hebrews to establish the unique nature of Melchisedec's priesthood, which Abraham acknowledged after this great military achievement [[Hebrews 7:1]].
### Summary
In summary, while `{{G2871}}` appears only once, its role is pivotal. It establishes the violent, decisive victory from which Abraham returns, setting the stage for his significant encounter with Melchisedec. This act of **slaughter** serves as the necessary prelude, where a scene of carnage gives way to a moment of high priestly blessing. Therefore, **kopḗ** functions as a crucial narrative marker, providing the context of conflict that elevates the importance of the peace and divine authority that follow.
TRV