### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chath**, represented by `{{H2844}}`, conveys a state of being crushed or terrified. It is derived from the root חָתַת and its meaning encompasses being broken, dismayed, or filled with dread and fear. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses**, illustrating its use in contexts of both physical collapse and abstract terror.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical applications, `{{H2844}}` describes a range of overwhelming conditions. It is used to establish the post-flood relationship between humanity and the animal kingdom, where God places the **dread** of man upon every creature [[Genesis 9:2]]. The word also signifies a state of complete powerlessness, as when the bows of **mighty men** `{{H1368}}` are **broken** [[1 Samuel 2:4]]. In a scene of military defeat, warriors are seen **dismayed** `{{H2844}}` and fleeing because of a divinely induced fear [[Jeremiah 46:5]]. Finally, its meaning is highlighted by its absence in the description of a powerful creature on earth made without **fear** [[Job 41:33]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the scope of `{{H2844}}`:
* `{{H4172}}` **môwrâʼ** (fear, dread): This term is used in parallel with **chath** to emphasize the profound dread instilled in all living creatures by God's decree [[Genesis 9:2]].
* `{{H1368}}` **gibbôwr** (mighty men): The subjects who experience the effects of `{{H2844}}`, whether having their weapons **broken** [[1 Samuel 2:4]] or being utterly **dismayed** in battle [[Jeremiah 46:5]].
* `{{H3807}}` **kâthath** (beaten down, smite): This verb provides the action that leads to the state of **chath**. The mighty ones are **dismayed** `{{H2844}}` precisely because they are **beaten down** `{{H3807}}` by a superior force [[Jeremiah 46:5]].
* `{{H4032}}` **mâgôwr** (fear, terror): This word describes the atmosphere of terror surrounding the soldiers who are **dismayed** `{{H2844}}`, linking the internal state to an external overwhelming presence of fear [[Jeremiah 46:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2844}}` is demonstrated in its connection to divine sovereignty and judgment.
* **Divine Order and Authority:** God himself institutes **dread** `{{H2844}}` as a fundamental principle of the created order, establishing humanity's relationship with animals after the flood [[Genesis 9:2]].
* **The Humbling of the Mighty:** The state of being **broken** `{{H2844}}` is used to illustrate God's power to overturn human strength and pride, showing that the might of warriors is subject to His will [[1 Samuel 2:4]].
* **Consequence of Judgment:** The feeling of being **dismayed** `{{H2844}}` is a direct consequence of divine judgment, where the Lord brings fear and panic upon armies to cause their defeat [[Jeremiah 46:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2844}}` is more than just a word for fear; it represents a state of being shattered, either physically or emotionally, often by a divine power. From the foundational **dread** instilled in creation to the **dismay** of defeated armies and the **broken** strength of the proud, **chath** consistently points to a condition that is absolute and overwhelming. It powerfully illustrates the effects of God's sovereignty, whether in establishing order or executing judgment.
TRV