### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **râtsach**, represented by `{{H7523}}`, is a primitive root that means to kill a human being, and is especially used for murder. It appears 47 times in 40 verses and primarily describes the act of unlawfully taking a life, whether intentionally or unintentionally. Its meaning ranges from the direct prohibition against killing to the specific legal status of a "manslayer."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7523}}` serves as a cornerstone of law and a measure of social morality. Its most prominent use is in the Ten Commandments, with the absolute command, "Thou shalt not kill" ([[Exodus 20:13]]; [[Deuteronomy 5:17]]). A significant portion of its occurrences is dedicated to the legal framework for the "slayer" who has killed someone unintentionally. These laws establish cities of refuge where the "manslayer" may "flee" for protection from the avenger of blood [[Numbers 35:6]]. Prophets also use this word to condemn Israel's wickedness, listing "murder" alongside stealing and adultery as proof of the nation's spiritual corruption ([[Jeremiah 7:9]]; [[Hosea 4:2]]) and lamenting how the faithful city has become full of "murderers" [[Isaiah 1:21]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the legal and moral context of `{{H7523}}`:
* `{{H5221}}` **nâkâh** (to strike): This term often describes the physical act that leads to death and helps distinguish the circumstances of the killing. The law provides for a "slayer" `{{H7523}}` who "killeth any person at unawares" [[Numbers 35:11]], differentiating the act from a premeditated strike.
* `{{H1350}}` **gâʼal** (avenger): This word refers to the kinsman-redeemer who had the legal right to avenge a death. The law protected the "manslayer" `{{H7523}}` from the "avenger" until judgment could be made by the congregation [[Numbers 35:12]].
* `{{H5127}}` **nûwç** (to flee): This action is central to the legal remedy provided for unintentional killing. The law commands that a way be prepared so that "every slayer" `{{H7523}}` may "flee" to a city of refuge and live [[Deuteronomy 19:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7523}}` is demonstrated in its application across law, prophecy, and wisdom literature.
* **The Sanctity of Life:** The term's placement in the Decalogue establishes the taking of human life as a violation of divine law, a foundational principle of biblical ethics [[Exodus 20:13]].
* **Justice and Intent:** The laws surrounding the "slayer" `{{H7523}}` reveal a sophisticated legal ethic that carefully distinguishes between premeditated murder and unintentional manslaughter. A "murderer" who kills with an iron instrument is to be put to death [[Numbers 35:16]], while one who kills without prior hatred is given refuge [[Deuteronomy 19:4]].
* **Moral Corruption:** In prophetic writings, the prevalence of "murder" `{{H7523}}` serves as a damning indictment of a society that has abandoned its covenant with God. When "blood toucheth blood," it signals a complete breakdown of order and righteousness [[Hosea 4:2]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7523}}` is a crucial term for understanding biblical law and morality. It moves from a general prohibition in the Ten Commandments to a specific legal category—the "slayer"—whose fate depends entirely on intent. Its use by the prophets as a sign of social decay underscores the gravity of unlawfully shedding blood. The word illustrates a sophisticated ethical system that upholds the sanctity of life while making careful provisions for justice and mercy.
TRV