### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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}}`.
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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