from קָצַב; shape (as if cut out); base (as if there cut off); bottom, size.
Transliteration:qetseb
Pronunciation:keh'-tseb
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun `{{H7095}}` (qetseb) derives from the verbal root `{{H7094}}` (qatsab), which signifies the act of "cutting off," "cutting down," or "cutting into shape." Consequently, `{{H7095}}` carries the core meaning of something that has been precisely defined, delimited, or given a specific form through such an action. Its semantic range encompasses:
* **Shape/Form:** The outer appearance or configuration of an object, as if meticulously carved or sculpted. This emphasizes a distinct, defined outline.
* **Base/Bottom:** The lowest part, foundation, or deepest point of something. This conveys a sense of ultimate limit or origin, a point at which something terminates or rests.
* **Size:** The measured dimensions or extent, implying a fixed and determined quantity.
The underlying concept is one of precision, boundary, and the inherent structure or foundation of a thing, often implying a definitive end or beginning.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
`{{H7095}}` is a rare term in the Hebrew Bible, appearing in only two distinct contexts, each illuminating a facet of its meaning:
* **[[Jonah 2:6]] (MT 2:7):** "I went down to the `{{H7095}}` of the mountains; the earth with its bars closed upon me forever..."
* In this poetic lament from the belly of the great fish, Jonah describes his desperate state. Here, `{{H7095}}` unequivocally refers to the "bottom" or "roots" of the mountains, signifying the deepest, most inaccessible part of the earth. It evokes an image of profound depth and utter confinement, emphasizing the extreme nature of Jonah's predicament and his complete separation from the world above. The "cutting" aspect here relates to the sharply defined, lowest boundary of the mountainous structures.
* **[[Habakkuk 3:13]]:** "You went forth for the salvation of Your people, for the salvation of Your anointed; You crushed the head of the house of the wicked, laying bare the `{{H7095}}` even to the neck. Selah."
* This passage is part of Habakkuk's powerful prayer, describing God's awesome intervention. The phrase "laying bare the `{{H7095}}` even to the neck" is a vivid metaphor. It is often interpreted as laying bare the "foundation" or "base" of the wicked house/power. This signifies a complete and devastating judgment that not only destroys the visible superstructure but also exposes and dismantles the very root, origin, or core of wickedness. The "cutting" here is a divine act of judgment that reveals and eradicates the deepest elements of evil.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the verbal root from which `{{H7095}}` is derived:
* **`{{H7094}}` (qatsab):** The verb "to cut off, cut down, cut into shape." This root provides the essential understanding of `{{H7095}}` as something precisely defined or delimited by a decisive act of cutting.
Other related concepts include:
* **Delimitation and Boundary:** The idea of something having a fixed extent or a clear ending point.
* **Foundation and Origin:** The lowest or most fundamental part of a structure or entity.
* **Precision and Definition:** The implication of something being exactly shaped or measured.
* **Divine Action:** While `{{H7095}}` itself is a noun, its connection to a verb of "cutting" often implies an agent, and in biblical contexts, this agent is frequently God, who defines, limits, and judges.
### Theological Significance
The rare occurrences of `{{H7095}}` nonetheless carry profound theological weight:
* **Divine Sovereignty and Judgment:** In [[Habakkuk 3:13]], `{{H7095}}` powerfully illustrates the thoroughness and finality of God's judgment. He does not merely superficial damage but lays bare the very foundation of wickedness, demonstrating His absolute power to dismantle evil at its core. This speaks to a God who acts decisively and comprehensively, leaving no hidden stronghold for sin.
* **Human Desperation and Divine Deliverance:** Jonah's use of `{{H7095}}` in [[Jonah 2:6]] underscores the extreme depth of his despair and the utter helplessness of humanity when confronted by overwhelming forces. Being at the "bottom" or "roots" of the mountains signifies a state beyond human rescue. This context magnifies the miraculous nature of God's intervention and deliverance, highlighting His ability to save from the deepest, most impossible situations. It is from the very `{{H7095}}` of despair that God hears and responds.
* **God as the Ultimate Shaper and Determiner:** Implicit in the meaning of `{{H7095}}` as "shape," "base," or "size" is the idea of a defined reality. While not explicitly stated, the divine hand is often seen as the ultimate shaper and determiner of all things, establishing boundaries and foundations. Thus, `{{H7095}}` can subtly point to the ordered, defined nature of creation and the definitive actions of the Creator.
### Summary
`{{H7095}}` (qetseb) refers to a defined shape, base, or bottom, derived from the act of cutting or shaping. Its limited biblical occurrences are highly significant: in [[Jonah 2:6]], it denotes the extreme depth and confinement of Jonah's predicament, emphasizing the miraculous nature of God's deliverance from the lowest point. In [[Habakkuk 3:13]], it portrays God's comprehensive judgment, laying bare the very foundation of wickedness. Theologically, `{{H7095}}` underscores God's sovereign power to define, limit, judge thoroughly, and deliver from the deepest extremities, revealing Him as the ultimate Shaper and Determiner of all things.
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