### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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