### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **'obdan**, represented by `{{H13}}`, signifies **a perishing** or **destruction**. It appears only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible, indicating its specific and impactful usage.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical occurrence, `{{H13}}` appears in Esther's heartfelt plea. Queen Esther expresses her deep distress over the impending fate of her people, stating, "For how `{{H349}}` can I endure `{{H3201}}` to see `{{H7200}}` the evil `{{H7451}}` that shall come `{{H4672}}` unto my people `{{H5971}}`? or how `{{H349}}` can I endure `{{H3201}}` to see `{{H7200}}` the **destruction** `{{H13}}` of my kindred `{{H4138}}`?" [[Esther 8:6]]. This usage directly conveys the profound horror and inability to cope with the utter ruin and demise of one's community and family.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words highlight the gravity and context of `{{H13}}`:
* `{{H3201}}` **yâkôl** (to be able): This term, frequently appearing alongside `{{H13}}` in [[Esther 8:6]], emphasizes the capacity or, in this case, the *inability* to endure or withstand such a calamitous event as destruction. Its contextual occurrences often relate to power, overcoming, or the limits of one's ability, further underscoring the overwhelming nature of `{{H13}}` [[Job 42:2]].
* `{{H7451}}` **raʻ** (bad or evil): Directly linked to `{{H13}}` in [[Esther 8:6]] ("the evil... the destruction"), this word describes the inherent wickedness or calamity that precedes or embodies perishing. Its broader usage often refers to adversity, harm, or moral wrongdoing, establishing `{{H13}}` as a dire consequence or manifestation of `{{H7451}}` [[Genesis 6:5]].
* `{{H4138}}` **môwledeth** (nativity, kindred): This term specifies the target of the `{{H13}}`, highlighting the profound personal and communal impact. It signifies one's family, lineage, or native people, making the threat of `{{H13}}` profoundly intimate and devastating when applied to one's "kindred" [[Genesis 12:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H13}}` is significant despite its singular appearance. It underscores the ultimate peril faced by a people when threatened by **destruction**.
* **Communal Catastrophe:** The word points to a complete and utter end for a collective group, emphasizing the existential threat and the deep sorrow associated with such a loss.
* **Response to Evil:** Being directly tied to "evil" `{{H7451}}`, `{{H13}}` represents the dire consequences that can result from wicked intentions or decrees against a people.
* **Profound Distress:** Esther's rhetorical question, "how can I endure to see the destruction," articulates the immense personal anguish and the human inability to bear witness to the obliteration of one's own, a feeling of deep despair in the face of absolute perishing.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H13}}` **'obdan** encapsulates the complete **perishing** or **destruction** of a people. Though appearing only once, its context in [[Esther 8:6]] powerfully conveys the extreme horror and profound emotional anguish associated with such a fate, linking it inexorably with the concept of "evil" and the deep distress felt by those facing the annihilation of their "kindred."
TRV