from קָצָה; a termination (literally or figuratively); also (by implication) a portion; adverbially (with prepositional prefix) after; end, part, [idiom] some.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qᵉtsâth**, represented by `{{H7117}}`, is a term used to signify a termination or a portion. It appears 5 times across 5 unique verses in the Bible. Based on its derivation, it can mean an end, part, or some of something, either literally or figuratively.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7117}}` is used to define both a specific quantity and a point in time. It describes a fraction of a whole, as when Nebuchadnezzar's forces carried away only a **part** of the vessels from the house of God [[Daniel 1:2]]. It is also used to denote a portion of a group, such as when **some of** the heads of families contributed to the work in Jerusalem [[Nehemiah 7:70]]. In the book of Daniel, the word is repeatedly used to mark the **end** of a designated period of testing or training ([[Daniel 1:5]], [[Daniel 1:15]], [[Daniel 1:18]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the settings in which `{{H7117}}` appears:
* `{{H214}}` **'ôwtsâr** (a depository; armory, cellar, garner, store(-house), treasure(-house) (-y)): This word is used for the **treasure** house where the "part" `{{H7117}}` of the vessels from God's house were taken [[Daniel 1:2]]. It often refers to a place of storage or wealth, whether worldly or divine.
* `{{H6598}}` **pathbag** (a dainty; portion (provision) of meat): This Persian-derived term describes the king's rich food, which Daniel and his friends refused. The success of their alternative diet was assessed at the "end" `{{H7117}}` of a ten-day period [[Daniel 1:15]].
* `{{H1697}}` **dâbâr** (a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing): In Daniel, this word is used for the daily **provision** from the king. The young men were to be nourished this way for three years, at the "end" `{{H7117}}` of which they would be presented to the king [[Daniel 1:5]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative weight of `{{H7117}}` comes from its ability to set precise boundaries for key events.
* **Framing Periods of Trial:** In Daniel, the word is crucial for marking the beginning and end of divinely significant tests. The outcome at the "end" of ten days [[Daniel 1:15]] and three years [[Daniel 1:5]] demonstrates God's faithfulness over the world's supposed wisdom and provision.
* **Defining a Limited Scope:** By specifying that only a "part" of the temple vessels were taken [[Daniel 1:2]] or that "some of" the fathers gave [[Nehemiah 7:70]], the word highlights that these actions are partial, not total. This can imply a preserved remnant or an incomplete despoiling.
* **Marking a Moment of Judgment:** The use of "end" consistently points toward a moment of assessment. At the "end" of the appointed days, Daniel and his friends are brought before the authorities for evaluation ([[Daniel 1:15]], [[Daniel 1:18]]), proving the value of their faithfulness.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7117}}` is a specific term that, while appearing infrequently, plays a significant role in its contexts. It functions to establish clear limits, whether of a physical portion or a temporal duration. Through its use in books like Daniel and Nehemiah, it frames pivotal moments of trial, offering, and judgment, showing how God's purposes unfold within specific, defined parameters.
TRV