### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qâdôwsh**, represented by `{{H6918}}`, is a core biblical term for what is **sacred**, ceremonially or morally. It appears **116 times** across **106 unique verses**, and is used to describe God, angels, saints, and sanctuaries. Its essential meaning conveys a state of being set apart, consecrated, and holy.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6918}}` is used first and foremost to describe the very nature of God. The seraphim cry, "**Holy**, **holy**, **holy**, is the LORD of hosts" [[Isaiah 6:3]], and Hannah declares, "There is none **holy** as the LORD" [[1 Samuel 2:2]]. This divine attribute is the basis for God's commands to His people. God calls Israel to be a "**holy** nation" [[Exodus 19:6]] and commands them, "Ye shall be **holy**: for I the LORD your God am **holy**" [[Leviticus 19:2]]. The term is frequently used as a title for God, "the **Holy One** of Israel" [[Isaiah 48:17]], linking His sacred nature to His covenant relationship with His people. It also designates sacred times, such as a "**holy** day" [[Nehemiah 8:10]], and sacred places [[Psalms 46:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand on the concept of holiness:
* `{{H6942}}` **qâdash**: This is the root verb, meaning to be clean, consecrate, dedicate, or sanctify. It represents the act of making something holy, as when God **sanctified** his name in righteousness [[Isaiah 5:16]].
* `{{H6944}}` **qôdesh**: This noun refers to a sacred place or thing, or holiness itself. It is used to describe the "**holy** ark" [[2 Chronicles 35:3]] and God's "**holy** name" [[Ezekiel 39:7]].
* `{{H3478}}` **Yisrâʼêl**: Meaning Israel, this word is intrinsically linked to `{{H6918}}`. God's identity as "the **Holy One** of Israel" appears repeatedly, defining His unique relationship with the nation [[Isaiah 54:5]].
* `{{H3068}}` **Yᵉhôvâh**: The personal name of God, the LORD, is the subject to whom holiness is most often ascribed. The very concept of being **holy** is defined by His character [[Leviticus 19:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6918}}` is foundational to understanding God's character and requirements.
* **God's Essential Nature:** Holiness is not just an attribute of God; it is His essence. He is the high and lofty one whose name is **Holy** [[Isaiah 57:15]]. This separateness from all that is profane is absolute [[1 Samuel 2:2]].
* **The Standard for God's People:** Because God is **holy**, His people are commanded to be **holy** [[Leviticus 11:44]]. This status is a gift and a calling, establishing them as a special people unto Him [[Deuteronomy 7:6]].
* **The Basis for Reverence:** God's holiness inspires awe and reverential fear. The psalmist exhorts God's **saints** to "fear the LORD" [[Psalms 34:9]], and wisdom begins with the "knowledge of the **holy**" [[Proverbs 9:10]].
* **A Title of Redemption:** The title "the **Holy One** of Israel" is consistently tied to God's role as Redeemer and Savior, demonstrating that His sacred power is exercised to save His people ([[Isaiah 43:3]], [[Isaiah 48:17]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6918}}` defines the divine nature as fundamentally separate, pure, and sacred. It is the defining characteristic of God, establishing the moral and spiritual standard for His creation. The term extends from God to His people, places, and times, marking them as consecrated for His purpose. Ultimately, **qâdôwsh** is the measure of all things sacred in scripture, rooted in the very being of "the **Holy One** of Israel."
TRV