### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ṭâbach**, represented by `{{H2873}}`, is a primitive root that means **to slaughter** animals or men. It is a potent verb used to describe the act of killing, slaying, or making slaughter. It appears 11 times across 11 unique verses, indicating its specific and impactful usage within the biblical text.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its scriptural application, `{{H2873}}` is used in both literal and figurative contexts. Literally, it refers to the butchering of animals for food, as when Joseph commands his steward to **slay** beasts for a meal [[Genesis 43:16]] or when Nabal speaks of the flesh he has **killed** for his shearers [[1 Samuel 25:11]]. It also appears in a legal setting, establishing the penalty for one who steals an ox and **kill**s it [[Exodus 22:1]]. Figuratively, the term is used to depict violent death and divine judgment. In Lamentations, God is described as the one who has **killed** the people in his anger [[Lamentations 2:21]], while Jeremiah prophesies a time for the "slaughter" of the corrupt leaders of the flock [[Jeremiah 25:34]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller picture of the act of slaughter:
* `{{H2874}}` **ṭebach** (something slaughtered): This noun is derived directly from the verb and refers to the butchered beast, meat, or the act of butchery itself. Wisdom personified is said to have **killed** her **beasts** in preparation for a feast [[Proverbs 9:2]].
* `{{H2026}}` **hârag** (to smite with deadly intent): A broader term for killing or slaying, it is used alongside `{{H2873}}` to emphasize the totality of destruction in God's judgment [[Lamentations 2:21]].
* `{{H2719}}` **chereb** (sword): This word for a cutting instrument is often the means by which slaughter is carried out. The wicked are depicted as drawing out the **sword** in order to **slay** the upright [[Psalms 37:14]].
* `{{H7843}}` **shâchath** (to destroy, ruin): This term for destruction appears in the plot against Jeremiah, who sees himself as being led to the **slaughter** while his enemies conspire to **destroy** him [[Jeremiah 11:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2873}}` is significant, often illustrating themes of judgment and persecution.
* **Covenant Curses:** The act of slaughter is presented as a consequence of disobedience. As part of the curses for breaking the covenant, an Israelite's ox would be **slain** before his eyes, but he would not be able to eat it [[Deuteronomy 28:31]].
* **The Innocent Sufferer:** The image of an animal being led to slaughter is a powerful prophetic metaphor for the suffering of the righteous. Jeremiah describes himself as "a lamb or an ox that is brought to the **slaughter**," unaware of the plots against him [[Jeremiah 11:19]].
* **Divine Judgment:** The word is used to describe God's active judgment against sin. The sword of the Lord is "sharpened to make a sore **slaughter**" [[Ezekiel 21:10]], portraying God's wrath as a deliberate and precise act of destruction.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2873}}` is more than a simple term for butchering. While it has a literal application in preparing food and in legal codes, its primary impact comes from its use as a metaphor. It powerfully conveys the severity of divine judgment, the tragic fate of the persecuted righteous, and the violent consequences of sin, making it a stark and memorable word in the biblical vocabulary.
TRV