from חָתַת; concretely, crushed; also afraid; abstractly, terror; broken, dismayed, dread, fear.
Transliteration:chath
Pronunciation:khath
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word חַת (chath, `{{H2844}}`) is derived from the verbal root חָתַת (chatat, `{{H2865}}`), which signifies "to be broken," "to be shattered," "to be dismayed," or "to be terrified." As a noun or adjective, חַת (chath, `{{H2844}}`) concretely expresses the *result* or *state* of being thus affected. Its semantic range primarily encompasses:
1. **Emotional/Psychological State:** The most prominent meaning is a profound, overwhelming fear, terror, dread, or dismay. It describes a state of being utterly disheartened, panicked, or paralyzed by fear, often to the point of spiritual or psychological brokenness.
2. **Physical Consequence (less common for this specific form):** Though less frequent for חַת (chath, `{{H2844}}`) itself, the underlying root חָתַת (chatat, `{{H2865}}`) can imply a physical shattering or crushing, thus חַת (chath, `{{H2844}}`) can conceptually link to a "broken" or "crushed" state, even if primarily applied to the spirit.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
חַת (chath, `{{H2844}}`) appears in various prophetic and poetic texts, consistently conveying a sense of overwhelming terror or dismay, often in response to divine power or a formidable threat.
* In [[Job 41:25]], describing the majestic and terrifying Leviathan, the text states, "When he raises himself up, the mighty are afraid; because of the crashing they are beside themselves." Here, חַת is translated as "terror" or "dread," indicating the profound fear inspired by this creature's power, a fear so great that it utterly breaks the spirit of the mighty.
* [[Jeremiah 30:5]] speaks of a future time of distress for Israel: "For thus says the LORD: We have heard a cry of panic, of terror, and no peace." חַת here is paired with "panic" (חֲרָדָה, charadah, `{{H2731}}`), emphasizing a state of extreme distress and fear, a chaotic and unsettling absence of peace.
* In prophetic judgments, חַת (chath, `{{H2844}}`) is used to describe the terror that will seize nations opposing God. For instance, in [[Isaiah 30:31]], concerning Assyria's downfall, it is declared, "For at the voice of the LORD the Assyrian will be dismayed; with his rod he will strike him." The "dismay" (חַת) here is a direct consequence of Yahweh's powerful voice, signifying their utter helplessness and terror in the face of divine judgment.
* Similarly, [[Ezekiel 32:10]] describes the terror that will befall kings when God brandishes His sword against Egypt: "I will make many peoples appalled at you, and their kings shall be horribly afraid of you..." The "horribly afraid" renders חַת, highlighting a paralyzing, life-threatening fear that causes them to tremble for their very existence.
* [[Jeremiah 49:24]] depicts the state of Damascus: "Damascus has become feeble, she has turned to flee, and panic has seized her; anguish and pains have gripped her, like a woman in labor." The "panic" (חַת) here is a visceral, overwhelming fear that leads to flight and is compared to the inescapable pains of childbirth.
Across these contexts, חַת (chath, `{{H2844}}`) consistently describes a profound, often debilitating, fear or terror that breaks the spirit, whether in response to a creature of immense power, a time of national crisis, or, most significantly, the direct intervention and judgment of God.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the verbal root חָתַת (chatat, `{{H2865}}`), from which חַת (chath, `{{H2844}}`) is directly derived. Understanding the root's meaning of "to be shattered, broken, dismayed, or terrified" is crucial for grasping the full force of חַת (chath, `{{H2844}}`).
Other Hebrew words conveying fear or dread, though with nuanced differences, include:
* יָרֵא (yare, `{{H3372}}`): "to fear," often encompassing awe, reverence, and respect, in addition to apprehension. Unlike חַת (chath, `{{H2844}}`), it does not inherently imply a state of brokenness or panic.
* פַּחַד (pachad, `{{H6343}}`): "dread," "terror," "fear." This word often overlaps with חַת (chath, `{{H2844}}`) in meaning, both describing intense fear. However, חַת (chath, `{{H2844}}`) often emphasizes the *state* of being overwhelmed or broken by that fear.
* בָּהַל (bahal, `{{H926}}`): "to be dismayed," "terrified," "hastened in alarm." Similar to חַת (chath, `{{H2844}}`) in conveying a sense of being thrown into confusion or alarm by fear.
The concept of "brokenness" (physical or spiritual), "dismay," and "panic" are intrinsically linked to חַת (chath, `{{H2844}}`), highlighting the vulnerability of humanity and nations before overwhelming power.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of חַת (chath, `{{H2844}}`) is profound, primarily serving to underscore God's absolute sovereignty and irresistible power.
1. **Manifestation of Divine Power and Judgment:** Most often, חַת (chath, `{{H2844}}`) describes the terror that seizes those who stand in opposition to Yahweh or are subject to His righteous judgment. It illustrates that no creature, no nation, no human power can withstand the might of the Almighty. The "dismay" of Assyria ([[Isaiah 30:31]]) or the "terror" of kings ([[Ezekiel 32:10]]) serves as a stark reminder that God's word and actions evoke a fear that breaks the strongest wills.
2. **Consequence of Rebellion and Disobedience:** For those in rebellion against God, חַת (chath, `{{H2844}}`) represents the inevitable and often overwhelming consequence. It is the terror that arises from facing divine wrath, highlighting the futility of resisting the Creator.
3. **Human Frailty and Dependence:** The word also speaks to the inherent weakness and vulnerability of humanity. When confronted with forces beyond their control—be it a formidable beast or, more significantly, the divine—humans are reduced to a state of panic and dismay. This underscores the need for reliance on a power greater than oneself.
4. **Contrast with Divine Peace:** Implicitly, חַת (chath, `{{H2844}}`) stands in stark contrast to the peace and security promised to those who trust in the Lord. While enemies are consumed by terror, those who walk in obedience and faith are promised freedom from such overwhelming dread, finding their refuge and strength in God ([[Psalm 27:1]], [[Isaiah 26:3]]).
### Summary
חַת (chath, `{{H2844}}`) is a potent Hebrew term derived from חָתַת (chatat, `{{H2865}}`), signifying a state of deep, paralyzing fear, terror, or dismay. It describes a profound spiritual or psychological brokenness induced by overwhelming dread. Biblically, it frequently appears in contexts depicting the terror that seizes individuals, nations, or powerful entities in the face of formidable power, most notably the irresistible might and impending judgment of Yahweh. Theologically, חַת (chath, `{{H2844}}`) powerfully articulates God's absolute sovereignty, the grim consequences of rebellion against Him, and the inherent frailty of humanity when confronted with divine power. It serves as a stark reminder of the terror that awaits the unrepentant, while implicitly highlighting the peace and security found in faithful reliance upon the Lord.
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