### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qesher**, represented by `{{H7195}}`, refers to an **(unlawful) alliance**, and is translated as **confederacy, conspiracy, treason**. It is derived from the root word `{{H7194}}` qâshar, meaning to bind or join together. It appears **16 times** across **13 unique verses**, typically describing plots against established authority.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H7195}}` consistently carries a negative connotation of betrayal and rebellion. It is famously cried out by Athaliah when she realizes a plot has been enacted against her, shouting, "**Treason**, **Treason**" ([[2 Kings 11:14]], [[2 Chronicles 23:13]]). The term is frequently used to describe specific plots against Israel's rulers, such as the **conspiracy** of Absalom against his father David, which grew strong as the people increased with him [[2 Samuel 15:12]]. Other examples include the **conspiracy** of Hoshea against Pekah [[2 Kings 15:30]] and the **treason** wrought by Zimri [[1 Kings 16:20]]. The concept also extends to spiritual matters, as when the LORD declares a **conspiracy** is found among the men of Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem [[Jeremiah 11:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide deeper context for the actions and consequences associated with `{{H7195}}`:
* `{{H7194}}` **qâshar** (to conspire, work treason): As the root verb, this word describes the very act of forming a `{{H7195}}` conspiracy. It is used to state that they "made a **conspiracy**" against King Amaziah in Jerusalem ([[2 Kings 14:19]], [[2 Chronicles 25:27]]).
* `{{H4428}}` **melek** (king): Conspiracies denoted by `{{H7195}}` are almost always directed against a **king**. This is seen when the **king** of Assyria found conspiracy in Hoshea [[2 Kings 17:4]] and in the records of conspiracies against the **kings** of Israel [[2 Kings 15:15]].
* `{{H4191}}` **mûwth** (to die, kill, slay): This word reveals the deadly intent and frequent outcome of a **conspiracy**. After Hoshea made a conspiracy against Pekah, he smote him and **slew** him [[2 Kings 15:30]]. Likewise, the conspiracy against Amaziah ended when they sent after him to Lachish and **slew** him there [[2 Chronicles 25:27]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7195}}` is significant, highlighting the severe consequences of rebellion against divinely recognized authority.
* **Betrayal of Kingship:** The term is most often used in the context of political insurrection, where servants, officials, or even a son form a **conspiracy** to overthrow and often slay a king ([[2 Kings 12:20]], [[2 Samuel 15:12]]). This represents a profound breakdown of national and social order.
* **Spiritual Treason against God:** The idea of conspiracy is elevated to the spiritual realm. The Lord himself identifies a **conspiracy** among the people of Judah and Jerusalem, framing their covenant unfaithfulness as treason [[Jeremiah 11:9]]. The prophets of Israel are also accused of a **conspiracy** where they have devoured souls and taken treasure [[Ezekiel 22:25]].
* **Warning against Illicit Alliances:** In Isaiah, the people are warned not to fear the **confederacy** of others or to label every alliance as such, but instead to fear the LORD [[Isaiah 8:12]]. This contrasts illegitimate human plots with righteous reverence for God.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7195}}` **qesher** is a powerful term for an unlawful alliance formed to commit treason or conspiracy. Its use in scripture demonstrates the destructive nature of rebellion, whether against a human king or against the ultimate authority of God. From the panicked cry of a queen facing a coup to a divine indictment against a faithless nation, **qesher** encapsulates the grave sin of treacherously binding together for illicit purposes.
TRV