### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qâṭaṭ**, represented by `{{H6990}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to clip off, i.e. (figuratively) destroy; be cut off**. This highly specific term appears only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, highlighting its focused and impactful meaning. Its singular use serves to deliver a powerful message about the nature of false hope.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical appearance of `{{H6990}}` is in Job's discourse on the fate of the godless. In this context, it is used to describe the ultimate end of a hypocrite's expectation. The verse states, "Whose hope shall be **cut off**, and whose trust shall be a spider's web" [[Job 8:14]]. Here, **qâṭaṭ** vividly portrays hope not just fading, but being decisively severed and destroyed, as fragile and useless as a spider's web.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept is further illuminated by related words derived from the same root:
* `{{H3689}}` **keçel** (confidence, folly, hope, loin): This word, which is translated as "hope" in the very verse where `{{H6990}}` is found [[Job 8:14]], carries a dual meaning. It can refer to a positive "confidence" or "hope," as when the LORD is one's confidence [[Proverbs 3:26]], but it can also denote "folly," as in the path of the foolish [[Psalms 49:13]]. In its literal sense, it can mean "flanks" or "loins" [[Leviticus 3:4]].
* `{{H3692}}` **Kiçlôwn** (hopeful): This word is used as the proper name Chislon, the father of Elidad from the tribe of Benjamin [[Numbers 34:21]]. Its meaning, "hopeful," connects it thematically to the concept of hope that `{{H6990}}` acts upon.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6990}}` is concentrated in its single, pointed application. It underscores several critical principles regarding faith and security.
* **The Fate of Misplaced Hope:** The primary lesson from its usage in [[Job 8:14]] is that hope `{{H3689}}` placed in anything other than God is subject to being "cut off." The Bible contrasts this with hope set in God, which provides true security [[Psalms 78:7]].
* **Finality of Judgment:** The action of being "cut off" implies a sudden and irreversible finality. It is not a gradual erosion but a complete separation from one's source of confidence, illustrating the definitive nature of judgment on the unrighteous.
* **The Illusion of Self-Reliance:** By describing the trust of the wicked as a "spider's web" in the same breath, the verse emphasizes that what is "cut off" was an illusion of security to begin with.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6990}}` is a potent and specific term whose rarity amplifies its message. Its lone appearance in scripture serves as a stark warning about the destiny of misplaced trust. By depicting the severing of false hope, **qâṭaṭ** illustrates the profound biblical truth that only confidence placed in the Lord is secure, while all other foundations will ultimately be cut off and prove to be as insubstantial as a spider's web.
TRV