a primitive root; to strip off, i.e. (partially) scrape; by implication, to segregate (as an angle); cause to scrape, corner.
Transliteration:qâtsaʻ
Pronunciation:kaw-tsah'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew root `{{H7106}}` (קָצַע, *qâtsaʻ*) is a primitive root with a core meaning that encompasses both physical action and spatial implication. Its most literal sense is "to strip off" or "to scrape," suggesting an act of removal, often partial or superficial, from a surface. This physical action implies a separation or a making distinct. By extension and implication, the root comes to signify "to segregate" or "to set apart," particularly in the sense of forming an "angle" or "corner." An angle naturally creates a distinct, separated space from the main body. Thus, the semantic range moves from a physical act of abrading or peeling to the conceptual creation of distinct boundaries or segregated areas, culminating in the idea of a "corner" or a "recess" that is set apart.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verbal form of `{{H7106}}` (קָצַע, *qâtsaʻ*) is exceedingly rare in the Hebrew Bible, appearing only once. This singular occurrence is found in [[Ezekiel 46:22]]: "In the four corners of the court were courts, forty cubits long and thirty wide; these four *corners* were of the same size." Here, the word is used in its passive participle form, קָצוּעוֹת (*qāṣûʿōṯ*), describing the "cornered" or "recessed" areas within the outer court of the visionary temple. These specific "corners" are not merely architectural features but are designated spaces for the priests to boil the sacrifices, highlighting their distinct and dedicated function. This usage perfectly aligns with the implied meaning of "segregate (as an angle)," emphasizing a deliberate setting apart of space for a particular, sacred purpose. The rarity of the verb underscores its specialized application, particularly within the detailed architectural descriptions of Ezekiel's temple vision.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct and significant related word to `{{H7106}}` (קָצַע, *qâtsaʻ*) is its derivative noun `{{H7097}}` (קֶצֶף, *qetsef*), which means "corner" or "angle." This noun appears more frequently, notably in the descriptions of the Tabernacle in [[Exodus 26:24]] and [[Exodus 36:29]], where it refers to the "corners" of the boards that form the sanctuary. It also appears in Ezekiel's temple vision, such as in [[Ezekiel 41:15]] and [[Ezekiel 41:22]], consistently denoting architectural corners or angles. The relationship between the verb and noun clarifies that the root's primary application in biblical Hebrew pertains to the formation or designation of distinct, angled spaces. Other related concepts within the broader semantic field include words pertaining to cutting, dividing, or separating, such as `{{H1504}}` (גָּזַז, *gazaz*, "to cut off"), `{{H1494}}` (גָּזַר, *gazar*, "to cut, divide"), and `{{H914}}` (בָּדַל, *badal*, "to divide, separate"). These terms collectively emphasize the idea of distinctness and demarcation.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H7106}}` (קָצַע, *qâtsaʻ*) is primarily derived from its singular occurrence in the highly significant context of Ezekiel's temple vision. The detailed architectural specifications in Ezekiel's prophecy are not merely blueprints but convey profound theological truths about divine order, holiness, and the proper approach to God. The "corners" (קָצוּעוֹת) described in [[Ezekiel 46:22]] are not arbitrary spaces but divinely appointed areas for the preparation of sacrifices. This highlights God's meticulous design and the principle of segregation for sacred purposes. Even the seemingly peripheral "corners" of the temple court are imbued with specific function and holiness, underscoring that every aspect of divine worship and sacred space is governed by God's precise will. It speaks to the concept of *qodesh* (holiness), where certain places, objects, or actions are set apart from the common for divine use. The act of "cornering" or "segregating" these spaces for sacrificial preparation emphasizes the need for distinctness and purity in approaching the divine.
### Summary
`{{H7106}}` (קָצַע, *qâtsaʻ*) is a rare but significant primitive root that fundamentally means "to strip off" or "to scrape," and by implication, "to segregate" or "to form an angle/corner." Its sole verbal occurrence in [[Ezekiel 46:22]] describes the "corners" or "recesses" within the visionary temple, which are specifically designated for the preparation of sacrifices. This usage, along with its more common derivative noun `{{H7097}}` (קֶצֶף, *qetsef*, "corner"), firmly establishes its primary biblical application in the realm of architectural design and spatial demarcation. Theologically, the word underscores God's meticulousness in establishing order and holiness within sacred spaces. It reveals that even the "corners" of His dwelling are purposefully designed and segregated for specific, sacred functions, emphasizing the divine imperative for distinctness and purity in worship and service.
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