from קָדַשׁ; a sanctum; Kedesh, the name of four places in Palestine; Kedesh.
Transliteration:Qedesh
Pronunciation:keh'-desh
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term קֶדֶשׁ `{{H6943}}`, transliterated as Qedesh, derives directly from the verbal root קָדַשׁ `{{H6942}}`, which signifies "to be holy," "to be set apart," or "to be consecrated." As a noun, קֶדֶשׁ `{{H6943}}` inherently carries the meaning of "a sanctum" or "a holy place." While its base definition points to a general concept of a sacred space, its primary usage in the biblical text is as a proper noun, referring to specific geographical locations. The name itself imbues these places with a connotation of being distinct, consecrated, or set apart, reflecting the root's profound theological implications.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term קֶדֶשׁ `{{H6943}}` appears predominantly as a place name, most notably identifying a significant city in the territory of Naphtali. Its occurrences illuminate its crucial role within ancient Israel:
* **Conquest Narratives:** Kedesh is mentioned among the cities whose kings were defeated by Joshua, indicating its pre-Israelite significance ([[Joshua 12:22]]).
* **Tribal Allotment:** It was allotted to the tribe of Naphtali, solidifying its place within the tribal boundaries ([[Joshua 19:37]]).
* **City of Refuge:** Crucially, Kedesh in Galilee, in the hill country of Naphtali, was designated as one of the six Cities of Refuge in Israel ([[Joshua 20:7]]). These cities were divinely appointed havens for those who had accidentally killed another person, providing protection from the avenger of blood until a fair trial could be held. This designation underscores its function as a "sanctum" of justice and mercy.
* **Levitical City:** Furthermore, Kedesh was assigned to the Gershonite Levites ([[Joshua 21:32]], [[1 Chronicles 6:72]]). The presence of Levites, who were responsible for teaching the Law and maintaining the purity of the land, further emphasized the city's unique and set-apart status within the Israelite commonwealth.
* **Judges Period:** Kedesh-naphtali is also mentioned in the context of Deborah and Barak's campaign against Sisera, serving as a gathering point for Israelite forces ([[Judges 4:6]], [[Judges 4:9]], [[Judges 4:10]]).
The consistent portrayal of Kedesh as both a City of Refuge and a Levitical city highlights its profound practical and spiritual significance within the divinely ordered land of Israel.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of קֶדֶשׁ `{{H6943}}` is deeply intertwined with a cluster of related Hebrew terms, all stemming from the same root קָדַשׁ `{{H6942}}`:
* קָדַשׁ `{{H6942}}` (qadash): The foundational verbal root meaning "to be holy," "to be set apart," "to consecrate." This root defines the essence of קֶדֶשׁ `{{H6943}}`.
* קֹדֶשׁ `{{H6944}}` (qodesh): The general noun for "holiness," "sacredness," or "a holy thing/place." קֶדֶשׁ `{{H6943}}` can be seen as a specific manifestation or application of this broader concept of holiness, particularly in a geographical context.
* מִקְדָּשׁ `{{H4720}}` (miqdash): "Sanctuary," "holy place," often referring specifically to the Tabernacle or Temple. This term emphasizes a dedicated, constructed holy space, whereas קֶדֶשׁ `{{H6943}}` applies the concept of holiness to a natural geographical location.
* **Concepts:** The word קֶדֶשׁ `{{H6943}}` evokes the theological concepts of divine consecration, separation for a sacred purpose, refuge, justice, and the ordered administration of God's covenant people.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of קֶדֶשׁ `{{H6943}}` extends beyond its geographical identification. Its very name, "sanctum" or "holy place," points to a divine intention.
1. **Divine Order and Holiness:** The designation of Kedesh as a City of Refuge and a Levitical city demonstrates God's meticulous ordering of the land of Israel according to principles of holiness and justice. These cities were not merely administrative centers but embodied divine provision for both sanctuary and spiritual instruction.
2. **Justice and Mercy:** As a City of Refuge, Kedesh symbolized God's balanced attributes of justice and mercy. While demanding accountability for the taking of life, God also provided a means for accidental offenders to find protection, ensuring due process rather than immediate retribution. This reflects God's desire for a just society tempered by compassion.
3. **Presence of the Sacred:** The presence of Levites in Kedesh further underscored its sacred character. The Levites were custodians of the Law and mediators of the sacred, making Kedesh a place where the principles of holiness were taught and upheld. The name קֶדֶשׁ `{{H6943}}` thus served as a constant reminder of God's holy presence and His covenant with Israel.
4. **A Place Set Apart by God:** Ultimately, Kedesh signifies a location that God Himself "set apart" for specific, holy purposes within His redemptive plan for His people. It was a physical manifestation of divine law and grace.
### Summary
קֶדֶשׁ `{{H6943}}` is a Hebrew term derived from the root קָדַשׁ `{{H6942}}`, meaning "to be holy" or "set apart." While its base definition is "a sanctum," its primary biblical usage is as a proper noun, "Kedesh," referring to significant locations in ancient Israel. Most notably, Kedesh in Naphtali served as one of the divinely appointed Cities of Refuge ([[Joshua 20:7]]) and was also a Levitical city ([[Joshua 21:32]]). This dual role highlights its profound theological significance, embodying God's attributes of holiness, justice, and mercy. Kedesh represents a place physically "set apart" by God, serving as a sanctuary for those seeking refuge and a center for the instruction and administration of God's holy Law among His people.
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