apparently a contraction for כִּסֵּא, but probably by erroneous transcription for נֵס; {a flag; also a sail; by implication, a flagstaff; generally a signal; figuratively, a token}; sworn.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **kêç**, represented by `{{H3676}}`, is a unique term translated as **sworn**. It appears only **1 time** in the entire Bible. The word's origin is complex, possibly a contraction or an erroneous transcription for a word meaning a flag or signal, but it is used in its single biblical context to signify an oath.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H3676}}` is in [[Exodus 17:16]], where it forms part of a solemn declaration. The verse states, "Because the LORD{H3050} hath **sworn**{H3027}{H3676} that the LORD{H3068} will have war{H4421} with Amalek{H6002} from generation{H1755} to generation{H1755}." In this passage, the word is paired with `{{H3027}}`, meaning "hand," to convey the act of taking a binding oath, establishing a perpetual state of war against Amalek.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in its only context illuminate the gravity of the oath:
* `{{H3027}}` **yâd** (a hand): Used alongside `{{H3676}}` to signify the swearing of the oath. It frequently represents divine power, intervention, and strength, as when Jabez prayed that God's **hand** might be with him [[1 Chronicles 4:10]].
* `{{H4421}}` **milchâmâh** (battle, war): This is the subject of the divine oath. The term is used elsewhere to affirm that the **battle** is not man's, but God's [[2 Chronicles 20:15]].
* `{{H1755}}` **dôwr** (generation): This word establishes the unending nature of the conflict. It is often used to describe the eternal nature of God's covenant and truth through all **generations** [[Genesis 17:7]].
* `{{H6002}}` **ʻĂmâlêq** (Amalek): The specific enemy against whom the LORD swears this perpetual war. God commands Israel to blot out the remembrance of **Amalek** from under heaven [[Deuteronomy 25:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3676}}` is concentrated entirely within its single use, highlighting several key concepts:
* **Irrevocable Divine Judgment:** The oath, taken by **Yahh** `{{H3050}}` himself, declares an unending **war** `{{H4421}}` against **Amalek** `{{H6002}}`. This demonstrates God's immutable decree against those who stand in opposition to His purposes [[Exodus 17:16]].
* **Perpetual Conflict:** The promise of war "from **generation** to **generation**" `{{H1755}}` signifies a permanent and divinely-mandated hostility, underscoring the severity of Amalek's offense against Israel [[1 Samuel 15:2]].
* **The Solemnity of a Divine Oath:** The use of `{{H3676}}` marks a moment of ultimate commitment from God. It transforms the conflict from a historical event into a standing principle of divine justice that will endure through all ages [[Exodus 17:16]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3676}}` is a word of profound significance despite its single appearance. Found only in [[Exodus 17:16]], **kêç** serves to formalize God's declaration of perpetual war against Amalek. It transforms a historical conflict into an eternal decree, encapsulating a moment of irrevocable divine judgment and establishing a conflict that will last from generation to generation.
TRV