The Hebrew word qerets, represented by H7171, is a specific term for destruction. It is defined as extirpation, as if by constriction. This word is exceedingly rare, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entirety of the Bible, making its single usage particularly significant.
The sole appearance of H7171 is in Jeremiah's prophecy against Egypt. The nation is depicted metaphorically as a very fair H3304 heifer H5697, representing its prosperity and appeal. However, this image is immediately broken by the declaration that destruction H7171 is coming H935 upon it. The prophecy specifies that this doom will arrive from the north H6828, indicating a precise and directional threat Jeremiah 46:20.
The context of H7171 is illuminated by several related words found in its only verse:
- H4714 Mitsrayim (Egypt, Egyptians, Mizraim): This term for Egypt is the subject of the prophecy. In other contexts, God's power is demonstrated by delivering Israel from the Egyptians Exodus 3:8 and promising they would see their former captors "no more for ever" Exodus 14:13.
- H5697 ʻeglâh (heifer): This word for a young female cow is used to symbolize Egypt's attractiveness in Jeremiah's prophecy. It is also used in other symbolic or sacrificial contexts, such as the heifer Abraham was commanded to take for a covenant ceremony Genesis 15:9.
- H6828 tsâphôwn (north): This word defines the origin of the coming destruction. The north is often depicted as a source of judgment or significant divine encounters, as seen when a great whirlwind came out of the north in Ezekiel's vision Ezekiel 1:4.
The theological weight of H7171 is concentrated in its single, powerful use.
- Prophetic Judgment: The word's appearance in Jeremiah 46:20 firmly places it within the theme of divine judgment against nations. It signifies a decisive and final action directed at Egypt H4714.
- Inevitable Doom: The text emphasizes that destruction "cometh" H935, highlighting the certainty of the coming judgment. This is juxtaposed with Egypt's description as a very fair H3304 heifer H5697, illustrating that no amount of earthly splendor can prevent God's decreed outcome.
- Directed Threat: The judgment is not abstract but comes from a specific direction: the north H6828. This aligns with other prophecies where God uses northern powers, such as Babylon, as instruments of His will against nations Jeremiah 25:9.
In summary, H7171 is a rare term whose meaning is sharply defined by its sole biblical context. It represents a specific act of destruction pronounced against a nation. Its use in Jeremiah 46:20 serves as a powerful illustration of divine judgment, contrasting the fleeting beauty and pride of a nation with the certainty of its prophesied downfall. The word, though used only once, contributes to the biblical understanding of God's sovereignty over the fates of all peoples.
TRV