from כָּתַב; a letter or other mark branded on the skin; [idiom] any (mark).
Transliteration:kᵉthôbeth
Pronunciation:keth-o'-beth
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H3793}}` (kᵉthôbeth) is a feminine noun derived from the verb `{{H3789}}` (kātav), meaning "to write," "inscribe," or "record." While the root `{{H3789}}` broadly refers to the act of writing, `{{H3793}}` specifically denotes "a writing" or "an inscription" that is made *on the skin*. Its semantic range is therefore quite narrow, pointing to a permanent mark, such as a tattoo or branding, affixed to the body. This implies a deliberate and lasting alteration of the physical form, often with cultic, social, or personal significance in ancient Near Eastern contexts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H3793}}` appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in [[Leviticus 19:28]]. The verse reads: "You shall not make any cuts in your body for the dead or tattoo yourselves with kᵉthôbeth." This prohibition is situated within the Holiness Code (Leviticus 17-26), a section of the Torah that outlines God's expectations for Israel's conduct, emphasizing their distinctiveness and holiness among the nations.
In its context, the prohibition against kᵉthôbeth is closely linked with "cuts in your body for the dead." Both practices were common in ancient pagan religions, particularly among the Canaanites and other surrounding peoples. Ritualistic self-mutilation and tattooing were often expressions of mourning, devotion to deities (such as Baal, cf. [[1 Kings 18:28]]), or attempts to appease spirits of the dead. By forbidding these practices, God commanded Israel to separate themselves from the idolatrous and superstitious customs of their neighbors. The mark of kᵉthôbeth was thus viewed as a defilement of the body, which was to be consecrated to Yahweh, and an adoption of practices antithetical to true worship.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic connection for `{{H3793}}` is its root, `{{H3789}}` (kātav), "to write." Other derivatives from this root include `{{H3791}}` (kᵉtav), referring to a general "writing" or "document" (e.g., [[Esther 1:19]]), highlighting the broader concept of inscription. However, `{{H3793}}` is unique in its specific application to marks on the body.
The concept of "marking" or "branding" is also present in other biblical contexts, though not always with this specific Hebrew term. For instance, slave marks were known in the ancient world, indicating ownership. Similarly, God himself "marks" individuals, such as Cain ([[Genesis 4:15]]) for protection, or the righteous in Jerusalem ([[Ezekiel 9:4]]) for preservation. These divine marks stand in stark contrast to the humanly applied kᵉthôbeth, which is forbidden. The prohibition also aligns with other laws against defiling the body or engaging in pagan mourning rituals, such as shaving the head ([[Deuteronomy 14:1]]) or making bald spots ([[Leviticus 21:5]]).
### Theological Significance
The singular prohibition of `{{H3793}}` in [[Leviticus 19:28]] carries profound theological weight. It underscores the sanctity of the human body as created by God and belonging to Him. The command for Israel to be "holy, for I am holy" ([[Leviticus 19:2]]) extends to every aspect of life, including bodily integrity and appearance. To mark the body with kᵉthôbeth was not merely a cosmetic choice but an act laden with religious significance, often signifying allegiance to other gods or participation in pagan mourning rites.
The prohibition serves as a powerful statement against syncretism, demanding exclusive devotion to Yahweh. It teaches that true worship and identity are not to be expressed through external, pagan-influenced rituals, but through internal commitment and obedience to God's covenant. The body, as a temple of the Holy Spirit (cf. [[1 Corinthians 6:19-20]]), is to be preserved from defilement, reflecting God's unique ownership and the call to live a life set apart for Him. This principle extends beyond the specific practice of tattooing to encompass any act that compromises one's identity as a worshiper of the one true God.
### Summary
The Hebrew word `{{H3793}}` (kᵉthôbeth) refers to a permanent inscription or mark branded onto the skin, derived from the root "to write." Its sole appearance in [[Leviticus 19:28]] prohibits such practices, linking them directly to pagan mourning rituals and idolatrous devotion. This prohibition is a crucial element within the Holiness Code, emphasizing Israel's call to be distinct and consecrated to Yahweh. The theological significance of kᵉthôbeth lies in its reinforcement of the sanctity of the human body as belonging to God, and the imperative for His people to avoid syncretism and express their faith through exclusive devotion rather than through defiling, pagan-influenced practices.
TRV