### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chaṭṭâʼ**, represented by `{{H2400}}`, is an intensive term for a **sinner**, a criminal, or one accounted guilty. It appears 18 times across 18 unique verses, identifying individuals or groups who are in a state of guilt or opposition to divine standards. The word carries the weight of being not just an offender, but one defined by their sinful state.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H2400}}` is used to define those who stand in contrast to the righteous and are subject to judgment. In Psalms, the path of **sinners** is one the blessed man avoids [[Psalms 1:1]], and they are ultimately excluded from the congregation of the righteous [[Psalms 1:5]]. The term describes those facing divine wrath, as God promises to destroy **sinners** from the land in his fierce anger [[Isaiah 13:9]] and that the **sinners** of his people will die by the sword [[Amos 9:10]]. It is applied to specific groups, such as the men of Sodom, who were "wicked and **sinners** before the LORD exceedingly" [[Genesis 13:13]]. The word can also describe a state of being, as when Bathsheba fears she and Solomon will be counted as **offenders** [[1 Kings 1:21]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of a sinner by contrast or association:
* `{{H7563}}` **râshâʻ** (ungodly, wicked): This word for a morally wrong person is often paired with **sinners**. Both the ungodly and **sinners** are depicted as unable to stand in the judgment [[Psalms 1:5]] and destined to be consumed [[Psalms 104:35]].
* `{{H6662}}` **tsaddîyq** (righteous): This term serves as the direct opposite of a **sinner**. While evil pursues **sinners**, good is repayed to the righteous [[Proverbs 13:21]], and the final judgment separates them.
* `{{H7451}}` **raʻ** (evil, bad): This describes the nature and fate associated with **sinners**. The men of Sodom were both wicked and **sinners** [[Genesis 13:13]], and evil is said to pursue **sinners** as a consequence of their path [[Proverbs 13:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2400}}` is significant, defining a key aspect of the human condition in relation to God.
* **A State of Separation:** A **sinner** is one who walks a different path. The blessed man does not stand in the "way of **sinners**" [[Psalms 1:1]], indicating a fundamental separation from the way of the righteous.
* **Subject to Divine Judgment:** A consistent biblical theme is that **sinners** will face judgment. They are warned of destruction [[Isaiah 13:9]], being consumed from the earth [[Psalms 104:35]], and being afraid in Zion [[Isaiah 33:14]].
* **The Possibility of Instruction:** Despite the severe consequences, there is hope for change. The LORD, being "good and upright," will "teach **sinners** in the way" [[Psalms 25:8]]. This divine instruction creates the opportunity for conversion, as David expresses hope that "**sinners** shall be converted unto thee" [[Psalms 51:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2400}}` **chaṭṭâʼ** is a powerful term that goes beyond a simple act of wrongdoing to describe a state of being guilty and separated from God. It identifies those who follow a path leading to judgment and destruction ([[Amos 9:10]], [[Isaiah 13:9]]). Yet, the use of the word also carries with it the profound theological truth that even those identified as **sinners** can be the subject of divine teaching and conversion [[Psalms 25:8]].
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