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