### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Qedesh**, represented by `{{H6943}}`, is a place name derived from the root `{{H6942}}`, meaning a sanctum. It appears **12 times** in **12 unique verses**, referring to several locations in Palestine. Its meaning is tied to the concept of being set apart or holy.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6943}}` is identified in several geographic and strategic contexts. It is listed among the cities conquered by Tiglathpileser of Assyria during the reign of King Pekah [[2 Kings 15:29]] and as a royal city whose king was defeated by Joshua [[Joshua 12:22]]. The city is frequently associated with the tribe of Naphtali, being called Kedeshnaphtali, the home of Barak whom Deborah summoned for battle [[Judges 4:6]]. Barak then gathered the tribes of Zebulun and Naphtali to **Qedesh** before going to war [[Judges 4:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the significance of **Qedesh**:
* `{{H6942}}` **qâdash**: This is the root verb from which **Qedesh** is derived. It means to be clean, consecrate, dedicate, hallow, or sanctify. This action is seen when God **sanctified** the seventh day [[Genesis 2:3]] and when the Israelites were commanded to **sanctify** the firstborn [[Exodus 13:2]]. The appointment of **Qedesh** as a city of refuge is described using this very verb [[Joshua 20:7]].
* `{{H4733}}` **miqlâṭ**: This noun means an asylum or **refuge**. **Qedesh** in Galilee was designated as a "city of **refuge**" [[Joshua 21:32]], a place appointed for a slayer to flee for safety [[Numbers 35:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6943}}` is rooted in its function as a sanctified place.
* **A Consecrated Space:** The very act of setting apart **Qedesh** as a city of refuge was an act of sanctification [[Joshua 20:7]]. The name itself reflects its status as a place "set apart" for a holy purpose, aligning with the meaning of its root verb, `{{H6942}}`.
* **A Place of Divine Refuge:** As a city of **refuge** `{{H4733}}`, **Qedesh** embodies God's provision for justice and mercy. These cities were established at God's command to provide asylum for the unintentional slayer [[Joshua 20:2]].
* **Levitical Inheritance:** **Qedesh** was given to the Levites as a city with its suburbs ([[1 Chronicles 6:72]], [[1 Chronicles 6:76]]). This further establishes its identity as a place dedicated to sacred service and inhabited by those set apart for the LORD.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6943}}` is not merely a name on a map but a location imbued with spiritual significance. Its identity is directly tied to the Hebrew concept of holiness and separation. By serving as both a Levitical city and a city of refuge, **Qedesh** illustrates how a physical place can be consecrated by God to serve a divine purpose, functioning as a tangible sanctuary for both justice and mercy in ancient Israel.
TRV