### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qâṭal**, represented by `{{H6991}}`, is a primitive root meaning to **kill** or **slay**. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. Its core definition is to "cut off," which is used figuratively to mean putting someone to death.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6991}}` is used to describe the act of taking a life in different contexts. In the book of Job, it is used twice. Job expresses unwavering faith, stating that even if God were to **slay** him, he would still trust Him [[Job 13:15]]. It is also used to describe the wicked actions of a murderer who rises at dawn to **kill** the poor and needy [[Job 24:14]]. In Psalms, the word is used in a prayer asking God to **slay** the wicked and remove "bloody men" [[Psalms 139:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context of slaying and wickedness:
* `{{H7523}}` **râtsach** (kill, murder): This term often specifies unlawful killing or murder. It is used in parallel with `{{H6991}}` to describe the actions of a **murderer** [[Job 24:14]] and is the word used in the commandment "Thou shalt not **kill**" [[Exodus 20:13]].
* `{{H7563}}` **râshâʻ** (wicked): This describes the morally wrong individuals who are the targets of divine judgment. The psalmist asks God to slay the **wicked** [[Psalms 139:19]], and elsewhere, the **wicked** are those who will perish for their iniquity [[Ezekiel 3:18]].
* `{{H1818}}` **dâm** (blood): This word is directly linked to the consequence of being slain. The psalmist wants God to act against "bloody men" [[Psalms 139:19]]. **Blood** represents both the life that is taken [[Leviticus 17:11]] and the guilt associated with bloodshed [[Ezekiel 3:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6991}}` is focused on themes of justice, wickedness, and faith.
* **Divine Judgment:** The word is used in a plea for God to act as the ultimate judge and **slay** the wicked [[Psalms 139:19]]. This highlights a biblical understanding of God's role in punishing evil.
* **Human Depravity:** The act of killing is presented as a pinnacle of human evil, particularly when the murderer `{{H7523}}` targets the helpless, such as the poor and needy [[Job 24:14]].
* **Sovereignty and Faith:** In a profound statement of trust, Job uses **qâṭal** to affirm his faith even if God were to **slay** him [[Job 13:15]]. This places the act of being slain within the context of God's absolute sovereignty and as a test of unwavering devotion.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6991}}` is a specific and impactful term for the act of slaying. Though used only three times, it covers a significant range of meaning, from a wicked man's act of murder [[Job 24:14]] to a prayer for divine judgment [[Psalms 139:19]] and a profound expression of faith in the face of death [[Job 13:15]]. It functions as a powerful word that, within its few appearances, addresses core biblical themes of justice, evil, and trust in God's sovereignty.
TRV