### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **'abdân**, represented by `{{H12}}`, fundamentally means **a perishing** or **destruction**. It is derived from a root indicating a state of being lost or destroyed. This term appears **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible, signifying its specific and impactful usage.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
`{{H12}}` is used in a context of decisive victory and judgment. Its single occurrence is in [[Esther 9:5]], where it describes the actions of the Jews against their adversaries: "Thus the Jews `{{H3064}}` smote `{{H5221}}` all their enemies `{{H341}}` with the stroke `{{H4347}}` of the sword `{{H2719}}`, and slaughter `{{H2027}}`, and destruction `{{H12}}`, and did `{{H6213}}` what they would `{{H7522}}` unto those that hated `{{H8130}}` them." In this verse, **destruction** `{{H12}}` signifies a complete and forceful outcome, occurring alongside **slaughter** `{{H2027}}` and the **stroke of the sword** (`{{H4347}}`, `{{H2719}}`), to underscore the definitive defeat of their **enemies** `{{H341}}` who **hated** `{{H8130}}` them.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{H12}}` reveals several related terms that illuminate its meaning of decisive eradication:
* `{{H2027}}` **hereg** (slaughter): This term frequently appears alongside `{{H12}}` in [[Esther 9:5]], emphasizing the deadly aspect of the event. It is also used in phrases like "great slaughter" [[Isaiah 30:25]] or when "the slaughter is made" [[Ezekiel 26:15]].
* `{{H2719}}` **chereb** (sword): Mentioned as an instrument of **destruction** `{{H12}}` in [[Esther 9:5]], the **sword** `{{H2719}}` signifies a cutting instrument used for destructive effect, highlighting physical conflict. Examples include the "sword against my shepherd" [[Zechariah 13:7]] and beating "swords into plowshares" [[Micah 4:3]].
* `{{H5221}}` **nâkâh** (to strike/smite): This verb describes the action that results in **destruction** `{{H12}}`, as seen in [[Esther 9:5]] where the Jews "smote" their enemies. This verb can denote inflicting a wound [[Jeremiah 30:14]] or a general act of striking [[Exodus 17:6]].
* `{{H341}}` **ʼôyêb** (enemy/adversary): `{{H12}}` is the fate of the **enemies** `{{H341}}` of the Jews, defining the target of the destruction. God causes enemies to be "smitten before thy face" [[Deuteronomy 28:7]].
* `{{H8130}}` **sânêʼ** (to hate): The **destruction** `{{H12}}` in [[Esther 9:5]] is directed towards those who **hated** `{{H8130}}` the Jews, associating the outcome with retribution against animosity. This term can refer to hating evil [[Proverbs 8:13]] or hating one's son [[Proverbs 13:24]].
* `{{H4347}}` **makkâh** (a blow/wound/carnage): This word describes the physical impact, such as the "stroke" of the sword, that leads to **destruction** `{{H12}}`. It is associated with grievous wounds [[Jeremiah 14:17]] and great slaughter [[Joshua 10:10]].
### Theological Significance
Though rare in occurrence, `{{H12}}` carries significant theological implications within its singular context:
* **Divine Retribution and Justice:** The **destruction** `{{H12}}` in [[Esther 9:5]] is an act of judgment carried out against those who actively **hated** `{{H8130}}` God's people. This points to a concept of justice where those who oppose the righteous face severe consequences.
* **Complete Overthrow:** The term signifies a total and utter perishing of enemies, indicating the finality and decisiveness of their defeat. Its use alongside other terms like "slaughter" `{{H2027}}` and "stroke of the sword" (`{{H4347}}`, `{{H2719}}`) reinforces this aspect of comprehensive eradication.
* **Deliverance and Security for God's People:** The **destruction** `{{H12}}` of adversaries directly results in the deliverance and security of the Jews `{{H3064}}`. This highlights God's protective hand, allowing His people to achieve their desired outcome against their oppressors.
### Summary
In summary, the Hebrew word **'abdân** `{{H12}}`, meaning **perishing** or **destruction**, appears uniquely in [[Esther 9:5]]. In this singular usage, it powerfully conveys the comprehensive and decisive defeat of the enemies of the Jews, achieved through violent means such as the sword and slaughter. The context underscores themes of divine judgment, the complete overthrow of adversaries, and the secure deliverance of God's people from those who hated them. Despite its limited appearance, `{{H12}}` emphasizes the severe and definitive nature of destruction within a specific historical narrative of retribution and liberation.
TRV