### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qeṭel**, represented by `{{H6993}}`, is a term for **a violent death** or **slaughter**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its singular usage points to a very specific application of the concept of violent destruction.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical appearance, `{{H6993}}` is used in a prophecy of divine judgment against the descendants of Esau. The word describes the ultimate fate awaiting the people of the mount of Esau, who will be "cut off by **slaughter**" [[Obadiah 1:9]]. This context links the term directly to a complete and violent destruction as a consequence of divine wrath.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in its only context highlight the totality of this judgment:
* `{{H1368}}` **gibbôwr** (powerful; by implication, warrior, tyrant): This term describes the "mighty men" who will be unable to prevent the coming destruction. Their status as powerful warriors is rendered useless in the face of the prophesied slaughter [[Obadiah 1:9]].
* `{{H2865}}` **châthath** (to prostrate; hence, to break down, either (literally) by violence, or (figuratively) by confusion and fear): This verb describes the reaction of Teman's mighty men to the impending judgment. They will be "dismayed," a state of fear and confusion that precedes their being cut off by slaughter [[Obadiah 1:9]].
* `{{H3772}}` **kârath** (to cut (off, down or asunder); by implication, to destroy or consume): This word signifies the action that leads to the slaughter. It is used to describe how everyone from the mount of Esau will be "cut off," indicating a complete and final separation or destruction [[Obadiah 1:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6993}}` is concentrated in its singular, powerful use.
* **Divine Judgment:** The use of `{{H6993}}` is a direct expression of divine retribution. It is the instrument by which judgment is executed upon the mount of Esau [[Obadiah 1:9]].
* **Finality of Destruction:** Paired with the verb "cut off" `{{H3772}}`, the term signifies an irreversible and total annihilation, leaving no survivors from the targeted group.
* **Futility of Human Strength:** The context explicitly states that even "mighty men" `{{H1368}}` will be dismayed, underscoring the theological point that no amount of human power or valor can withstand God's decreed judgment when it culminates in slaughter.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6993}}` **qeṭel** is a highly specific term for a violent slaughter. Its singular appearance in scripture gives it significant weight, where it serves as the ultimate consequence in a prophecy of divine judgment in [[Obadiah 1:9]]. The word illustrates the finality of God's wrath, a destruction so complete that it dismays even the mightiest of warriors and cuts off an entire people.
TRV