### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **châgâʼ**, represented by `{{H2283}}`, means **terror**. Derived from a root meaning to revolve, it properly suggests vertigo and figuratively, fear. This specific term is used only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, making its sole appearance highly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{H2283}}` is found in Isaiah's prophecy against Egypt. The verse states, "And the land of Judah shall be a **terror** unto Egypt" [[Isaiah 19:17]]. In this context, the terror is not a baseless panic but a direct result of divine action. The fear experienced by Egypt `{{H4714}}` is explicitly linked to "the counsel `{{H6098}}` of the LORD `{{H3068}}` of hosts `{{H6635}}`, which he hath determined `{{H3289}}` against it." The land of Judah `{{H3063}}` becomes the very symbol of this impending judgment, to the point where anyone who even makes mention `{{H2142}}` of it will be afraid `{{H6342}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context clarify the nature of this terror:
* `{{H6342}}` **pâchad** (to be afraid): This word is used in parallel with `{{H2283}}` in its only verse, emphasizing the emotional response to God's plan. It describes being startled or filled with fear [[Isaiah 19:17]]. This type of fear is elsewhere contrasted with the security found in the Lord, as in the question, "of whom shall I be **afraid**?" [[Psalms 27:1]].
* `{{H6098}}` **ʻêtsâh** (counsel): This term identifies the source of the terror. It is not an earthly threat but the divine **counsel** or plan of the LORD [[Isaiah 19:17]]. The dossier shows this word is used to describe God's sovereign and effective plans, which stand firm while human devices fail [[Proverbs 19:21]].
* `{{H3063}}` **Yᵉhûwdâh** (Judah): This word names the agent of the terror. God uses the land of **Judah** as the instrument of His judgment against Egypt. The very name, which means "celebrated," becomes a cause for fear because of God's determined purpose [[Isaiah 19:17]]. The authority of Judah is a theme rooted in promises like the sceptre not departing from it [[Genesis 49:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2283}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful usage.
* **Terror as Divine Judgment:** The word does not describe a generic fear, but a specific terror that originates from God's determined will. It is a reaction to the unshakeable "counsel of the LORD of hosts" [[Isaiah 19:17]].
* **God's Sovereignty Over Nations:** The prophecy demonstrates that God uses nations as instruments in His divine plan. Here, Judah `{{H3063}}` is the catalyst for fear in Egypt `{{H4714}}`, showing that the fates of world powers are subject to God's purpose.
* **The Power of God's Word and Name:** The terror is so profound that the mere "mention" `{{H2142}}` of Judah is enough to cause fear. This illustrates how God's active counsel can be invested in a name or a people, turning it into a source of dread for His enemies.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H2283}}` **châgâʼ** is an exceedingly rare term, its lone appearance in Scripture is impactful. It defines **terror** not as a random emotion, but as a specific and justified fear in response to the sovereign and determined counsel of the LORD of hosts. It illustrates how a nation can become a symbol of divine judgment, demonstrating that God's plans are the ultimate source of both security for His people and terror for those who stand in opposition to His will.
TRV