lemma חָעָה ayin, corrected to חָצָה; a primitive root (compare זֵד)); to cut or split in two; to halve; divide, [idiom] live out half, reach to the midst, participle
Transliteration:châtsâh
Pronunciation:khaw-tsaw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew root חָצָה (châtsâh) fundamentally conveys the action of "to cut in two," "to split," or "to halve." Its core meaning denotes a precise bisection, creating two distinct parts from a single entity. The semantic range extends beyond mere physical division to include the apportionment of shares, the establishment of boundaries, and even the temporal concept of reaching the midpoint of a period, such as "half of one's days." The participle form would thus signify something "divided," "halved," or "separated." The underlying notion is one of clear demarcation and distribution.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The occurrences of חָצָה (châtsâh) in the biblical text illustrate its diverse applications. A prominent use is in the context of dividing spoils or plunder, as seen after military victories. For instance, in [[Numbers 31:27]], Moses instructs the division of the captured goods between the warriors and the rest of the congregation, ensuring an equitable distribution. Similarly, in [[Joshua 8:16]], the word describes the tactical division of Israelite forces to draw the men of Ai out of their city.
Another significant application is in the division of land or territory. In [[Numbers 34:15]], the Transjordanian tribes are said to have "received their inheritance" (lit. "halved their inheritance"), indicating the completed apportionment of their land. This usage is crucial for understanding the tribal allotments in the Promised Land, where precise boundaries were established by divine command.
Beyond physical division, חָצָה (châtsâh) also appears in a temporal sense. In [[Psalm 102:24]], the psalmist laments, "O my God, do not take me away in the midst of my days" (lit. "do not take me away in half of my days"). Here, the word signifies reaching only a portion of an expected lifespan, highlighting human frailty and the brevity of life. The context invariably shapes the nuance of חָצָה (châtsâh), whether it implies strategic action, just apportionment, or a lamentable curtailment.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of division and separation is rich in the Hebrew Bible, and חָצָה (châtsâh) interacts with several related terms. The verb `{{H2505}}` (chalaq) also means "to divide" or "to apportion," often used interchangeably with חָצָה (châtsâh) in the context of inheritance or shares, though `{{H2505}}` might emphasize the *portion* received more than the act of *cutting*. `{{H6504}}` (parash) denotes "to separate" or "to make distinct," often implying a clear differentiation between categories. `{{H914}}` (badal) carries the sense of "to divide" or "to separate," frequently used in theological contexts such as God separating light from darkness in creation ([[Genesis 1:4]]) or setting apart a people for Himself. While חָצָה (châtsâh) is not typically used for "cutting a covenant" (which is `{{H3772}}` karath), the idea of establishing distinct parties through a demarcating act resonates with the core meaning of bisection. Concepts such as inheritance, apportionment, justice, and strategic planning are all closely related to the various applications of חָצָה (châtsâh).
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of חָצָה (châtsâh) lies in several key areas. Firstly, it underscores divine sovereignty and order. God is often the ultimate agent behind the divisions described in Scripture, particularly in the allocation of land to the tribes of Israel. This demonstrates His meticulous planning and control over the destiny of His people, providing each their designated inheritance. The division of the Red Sea ([[Exodus 14]]) or the Jordan River ([[Joshua 3]]) by divine power, though not explicitly using חָצָה (châtsâh), embodies the miraculous act of bisection, revealing God's power to create a path where none exists.
Secondly, the concept of "halving" often relates to justice and equitable distribution. Whether it's the division of spoils or land, the act implies a fair and measured apportionment, reflecting God's character as a just dispenser of blessings and responsibilities.
Thirdly, in the context of "half of one's days," חָצָה (châtsâh) speaks to the human condition of mortality and the brevity of life. It serves as a poignant reminder of human finitude in contrast to God's eternal nature, prompting reflection on the transient nature of earthly existence and the need for divine mercy. The lament of a life cut short emphasizes the impact of sin on the human lifespan and the longing for enduring life.
### Summary
The Hebrew root חָצָה (châtsâh) fundamentally means "to cut or split in two" or "to halve." This core meaning extends to various applications in the biblical text, including the literal division of physical entities like spoils of war or land, and metaphorically to the temporal concept of reaching "half of one's days." The word highlights themes of divine order, equitable distribution, and the transient nature of human life. Through its usage, חָצָה (châtsâh) provides insight into God's sovereign control over creation, His just apportionment, and the human experience of life and mortality within the divine narrative.
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