### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qaddachath**, represented by `{{H6920}}`, refers to a **burning ague** or **fever**. Its base definition is inflammation or febrile disease. This term appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, consistently used to describe a severe malady inflicted as a form of divine punishment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H6920}}` is presented as a direct consequence of disobedience. In Leviticus, it is part of a list of calamities that God will appoint over the people, described as a "burning ague" that will "consume the eyes, and cause sorrow of heart" [[Leviticus 26:16]]. Similarly, in Deuteronomy, it is one of the curses the LORD will use to smite the Israelites, where a **fever** is listed alongside other afflictions that will pursue them until they perish [[Deuteronomy 28:22]]. In both instances, it is a tool of divine judgment.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words appear alongside `{{H6920}}` to describe a collection of severe afflictions:
* `{{H7829}}` **shachepheth** (consumption): This term for emaciation is paired with **qaddachath** in both of its occurrences, signifying a wasting disease ([[Leviticus 26:16]], [[Deuteronomy 28:22]]).
* `{{H1816}}` **dalleqeth** (inflammation): This word for a burning fever appears with **qaddachath** in the list of curses found in Deuteronomy, emphasizing intense, feverish sickness [[Deuteronomy 28:22]].
* `{{H2746}}` **charchur** (extreme burning): Also listed in Deuteronomy, this term specifies a hot fever, intensifying the description of the affliction that will come upon the disobedient [[Deuteronomy 28:22]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6920}}` is found entirely within its role as an instrument of covenantal curse.
* **Tangible Judgment:** The use of **qaddachath** demonstrates that the consequences for breaking God's covenant are not merely spiritual but manifest in severe physical suffering.
* **A Component of Broader Curses:** It is never mentioned in isolation but is always part of a group of diseases. This illustrates the comprehensive and overwhelming nature of the punishment for rebellion against God [[Deuteronomy 28:22]].
* **Result of Disobedience:** The word is exclusively used within passages detailing the curses for disobedience, reinforcing the direct link between the people's actions and the resulting divine response [[Leviticus 26:16]]. The ultimate outcome of these afflictions is to **perish** `{{H6}}`.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6920}}` is a specific and potent term used to depict a severe fever. It is not a general term for sickness but is exclusively reserved for the context of divine judgment. Its appearance alongside other maladies like consumption and inflammation paints a grim picture of the physical consequences promised to those who violate their covenant with God.
TRV