The Hebrew word chittâh, represented by H2847, means fear or terror. It is derived from the root word חָתַת. Despite its powerful meaning, it appears only 1 time in a single verse in the entire Bible, highlighting a very specific application of the concept.
The sole occurrence of H2847 is in Genesis 35:5. The verse describes a moment when Jacob and his family were vulnerable while on a journey. As they journeyed, the "terror of God was upon the cities that were round about them." This divine influence had a direct, protective effect: the people of the surrounding cities "did not pursue after the sons of Jacob." The fear instilled by God served as a shield, ensuring their safe passage.
Several words in the surrounding text of Genesis 35:5 illuminate the context of H2847:
- H430 ʼĕlôhîym (God): This specifies the source of the terror. It is used to refer to the supreme God, indicating that the fear was a direct, divine act.
- H7291 râdaph (pursue): This word, meaning to run after often with hostile intent, describes the action that was prevented. The terror of God stopped a potential pursuit of Jacob's family.
- H5892 ʻîyr (city): This identifies the recipients of the terror. The fear fell upon the surrounding cities, neutralizing the threat they posed to the "sons of Jacob" H1121.
The theological significance of H2847 is focused on God's active protection of His people.
- Divine Protection: The "terror of God" is a clear example of divine intervention. God uses this overwhelming fear as a tool to safeguard the "sons of Jacob" H3290 on their journey Genesis 35:5.
- Sovereignty Over Nations: The event shows God's authority extends beyond His chosen people to the surrounding cities (H5892). He is able to influence the emotions and actions of all people to fulfill His divine purpose.
- Fear as a Divine Instrument: The use of chittâh demonstrates that God can employ fear not as a punishment for the wicked, but as a means of defense for the righteous, creating a zone of safety around them.
In summary, chittâh H2847 is a concise but potent term for a divinely induced terror. Its single use in scripture is not incidental but serves as a powerful illustration of God's providence. The account in Genesis 35:5 shows how God can deploy fear as a protective shield for His people, demonstrating His sovereignty over all nations and His direct intervention in the lives of those He has chosen.
TRV