### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term דַּלֶּקֶת (dalleqeth), Strong's number `{{H1816}}`, denotes a severe physical affliction, specifically "a burning fever" or "inflammation." This noun derives from the verb דָּלַק (dalaq), Strong's number `{{H1814}}`, which carries the primary meaning "to burn," "to kindle," or "to pursue hotly." The etymological connection to "burning" is crucial, as it emphasizes the intense, consuming nature of the illness. Thus, דַּלֶּקֶת describes a pathological condition characterized by internal heat and a destructive process, akin to a fire consuming its fuel. Its semantic range is narrow, focused specifically on this type of fiery bodily ailment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term דַּלֶּקֶת (dalleqeth) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in [[Deuteronomy 28:22]]. This verse is part of a lengthy passage detailing the curses that will befall Israel if they disobey the covenant stipulations given by Yahweh.
In [[Deuteronomy 28:22]], the text reads: "The Lord will strike you with consumption (שַׁחֶפֶת), with fever (קַדַּחַת), with inflammation (דַּלֶּקֶת), with scorching heat (חַרְחֻר), with drought (חֶרֶב), with blight (שִׁדָּפוֹן), and with mildew (יֵרָקוֹן), and they will pursue you until you perish."
Within this context, דַּלֶּקֶת is listed among a series of physical diseases and agricultural disasters that serve as divine judgments. It represents a specific form of illness, characterized by its burning intensity, distinguishing it from other afflictions like consumption (a wasting disease) or general fever. The inclusion of "inflammation" alongside other forms of sickness underscores the comprehensive nature of the curses, indicating that various debilitating physical conditions would be sent upon a disobedient people. This singular occurrence, therefore, places דַּלֶּקֶת firmly within the theological framework of covenantal consequences, functioning as a tangible sign of divine displeasure and a means of discipline.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic connection for דַּלֶּקֶת (dalleqeth) is its root verb, דָּלַק (dalaq) `{{H1814}}`. This verb is used in various contexts to describe burning, such as the kindling of fire (e.g., [[Isaiah 5:24]]) or the hot pursuit of enemies (e.g., [[Lamentations 4:19]]). The noun form, דַּלֶּקֶת, concretizes this sense of "burning" into a specific physical malady, highlighting the internal, consuming heat of inflammation or fever.
Other related terms in [[Deuteronomy 28:22]] that describe forms of disease or affliction include:
* שַׁחֶפֶת (shakhepheth) `{{H7829}}`: "consumption" or "wasting disease."
* קַדַּחַת (qaddachath) `{{H6920}}`: "fever," a more general term for feverishness.
* חַרְחֻר (charḥur) `{{H2746}}`: "scorching heat" or "fiery heat," often associated with fever or drought.
These terms, together with דַּלֶּקֶת, form a lexical field of severe physical ailments, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of the divine curses. The repetition of terms related to heat (דַּלֶּקֶת, קַדַּחַת, חַרְחֻר) underscores the intense suffering implied by these judgments. The concept of disease as a consequence of sin or disobedience is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, connecting דַּלֶּקֶת to a broader theological understanding of divine justice.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of דַּלֶּקֶת (dalleqeth) is deeply embedded in its sole biblical appearance within the covenantal curses of [[Deuteronomy 28]]. It functions as a potent symbol of divine judgment and the severe consequences of covenantal disobedience.
1. **Divine Retribution:** As one of the plagues threatened by Yahweh, דַּלֶּקֶת signifies God's active involvement in bringing about judgment upon a rebellious people. It is not merely a natural occurrence but a divinely ordained affliction, demonstrating God's sovereignty over health and disease.
2. **Covenantal Consequences:** The presence of דַּלֶּקֶת in this list underscores the conditional nature of the Mosaic covenant. Blessings were promised for obedience, but severe curses, including debilitating illnesses, were stipulated for apostasy. This serves as a stark warning about the gravity of breaking faith with God.
3. **Physical Manifestation of Spiritual State:** In a broader Old Testament theological framework, physical illness can sometimes be seen as a tangible manifestation of an underlying spiritual condition or a departure from God's intended order. The "burning" nature of דַּלֶּקֶת metaphorically reflects the consuming nature of divine wrath against sin.
4. **A Call to Repentance:** While a curse, the purpose of such judgments was ultimately redemptive. The experience of debilitating illness like דַּלֶּקֶת was intended to drive the people to repentance, reminding them of their dependence on God and the sanctity of the covenant.
### Summary
דַּלֶּקֶת (dalleqeth) `{{H1816}}` is a Hebrew noun meaning "a burning fever" or "inflammation," derived from the root verb דָּלַק (dalaq) `{{H1814}}`, "to burn." Its singular occurrence in [[Deuteronomy 28:22]] places it firmly within the context of divine curses for covenantal disobedience. As one of several physical afflictions threatened by Yahweh, דַּלֶּקֶת signifies a severe, consuming illness that serves as a tangible manifestation of God's judgment. Theologically, it highlights the consequences of rebellion against God, underscoring the conditional nature of the covenant and God's sovereignty over health and disease as a means of discipline and a call to repentance.
TRV