The Hebrew word kᵉrîythûwth, represented by H3748, signifies divorce or divorcement. Derived from a root meaning "to cut," its definition as "a cutting (of the matrimonial bond)" emphasizes the finality of severing a marriage. It appears 4 times across 4 unique verses in the Bible.
The term H3748 is consistently associated with a formal, written document. In Deuteronomy, it is part of the legal instruction for a man to divorce his wife, requiring him to write a "bill H5612 of divorcement H3748" and deliver it to her (Deuteronomy 24:1, Deuteronomy 24:3). The prophets use this legal concept as a powerful metaphor for God's relationship with Israel. God asks where the "bill of your mother's divorcement" is, linking Israel's separation to their own iniquities Isaiah 50:1. Similarly, God speaks of giving a "bill of divorce" to backsliding Israel for her spiritual adultery Jeremiah 3:8.
Several related words clarify the process and context of H3748:
- H5612 çêpher (bill, book, scroll): This word for a written document is essential to H3748, appearing in every instance as the "bill" of divorce. It signifies a formal, legal record Deuteronomy 24:1.
- H5414 nâthan (to give, put, make): This verb describes the action of delivering the bill of divorcement (Deuteronomy 24:1, Jeremiah 3:8). Its broader usage includes God giving a new heart Ezekiel 36:26 and putting His law in people's inward parts Jeremiah 31:33.
- H7971 shâlach (to send away, for, or out): This describes the act of separation that follows the divorce. A husband would "send her out of his house" Deuteronomy 24:1, and God speaks of having "put her away" (Isaiah 50:1, Jeremiah 3:8).
The theological weight of H3748 is revealed in its metaphorical usage.
- Legal Formality: The term's connection to a "bill" H5612 underscores that divorce was a formal, documented action, not a casual dismissal. This legal framework provides the basis for its theological application Deuteronomy 24:1.
- Covenantal Breach: Prophets use H3748 as a powerful metaphor to describe the broken covenant between God and His people. God portrays Himself as the husband who has put away unfaithful Israel (Isaiah 50:1, Jeremiah 3:8).
- Consequence of Sin: The act of divorcement is presented as a direct result of Israel's sin. In Isaiah, God states the separation is due to their "iniquities" and "transgressions" Isaiah 50:1. Similarly, Jeremiah cites Israel's spiritual "adultery" as the cause for being put away Jeremiah 3:8.
In summary, kᵉrîythûwth H3748 denotes a formal "cutting" or separation. Though it appears only four times, its meaning is significant. It provides the legal basis for divorce in the Law through a written "bill" and serves as a profound theological metaphor for the consequences of Israel's covenant unfaithfulness to God. The term powerfully illustrates the gravity of a broken bond, whether between a husband and wife or between God and His people.
TRV