### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shâchaṭ**, represented by `{{H7819}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to slaughter**. Its definition includes actions like sacrifice, massacre, killing, offering, shooting out, and slaying. It appears **81 times** across **70 unique verses** in the Bible, highlighting its significance in both ritual and narrative contexts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H7819}}` is applied in several distinct ways. It is most frequently found in the context of prescribed religious sacrifices. For example, the Israelites were commanded to **kill** the Passover lamb [[Exodus 12:21]], and priests would **kill** various offerings like bullocks and goats before the LORD at the tabernacle ([[Leviticus 1:5]], [[Leviticus 3:2]]). Beyond ritual, the word describes acts of lethal violence and warfare, such as when the sons of Zedekiah were **slew** before his eyes [[2 Kings 25:7]], or when Elijah **slew** the prophets of Baal at the brook Kishon [[1 Kings 18:40]]. It is also used to condemn forbidden acts, such as the idolatrous **slaying** of children in valleys [[Isaiah 57:5]]. Figuratively, it describes a deceitful tongue as an arrow **shot out** [[Jeremiah 9:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a broader understanding of killing and striking:
* `{{H2026}}` **hârag**: This word means "to smite with deadly intent." It is used to describe acts of murder, as when Cain **slew** his brother Abel [[Genesis 4:8]], and also refers to divine judgment, as when the LORD will **slay** the dragon that is in the sea [[Isaiah 27:1]].
* `{{H5221}}` **nâkâh**: Meaning "to strike," this term can be literal or figurative. It is used in the prophecy of the shepherd who will be **smitten** [[Zechariah 13:7]] and in the description of the suffering servant as **smitten** of God [[Isaiah 53:4]]. In a striking comparison, Isaiah notes that he who kills an ox is as if he **slew** a man [[Isaiah 66:3]].
* `{{H6202}}` **ʻâraph**: This word specifically means "to break the neck." It is used in laws concerning the redemption of animals, where if a firstling is not redeemed, one shall **break his neck** [[Exodus 13:13]]. It is also used figuratively to describe the destruction of altars [[Hosea 10:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7819}}` is primarily centered on the Old Testament sacrificial system and divine judgment.
* **Sacrificial Atonement:** The act of slaying an animal is a foundational step in the process of making atonement and reconciliation. The priests **killed** the sacrifices and used the blood upon the altar to make an atonement for all Israel [[2 Chronicles 29:24]]. This procedure was meticulously detailed for sin offerings, burnt offerings, and peace offerings ([[Leviticus 4:4]], [[Leviticus 9:18]]).
* **Execution of Judgment:** The term is used when carrying out divine or human judgment. This is seen when the king of Babylon **slew** the sons of Zedekiah and the princes of Judah as a consequence of their rebellion [[Jeremiah 52:10]].
* **Illegitimate Worship:** The act of slaying becomes an abomination when misapplied. Prophets condemn those who have **slain** their children for their idols [[Ezekiel 16:21]], and Isaiah warns that even a ritually correct sacrifice is detestable if the worshiper's soul delights in abominations [[Isaiah 66:3]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7819}}` is a potent word that conveys the gravity of taking a life. It serves as the core verb for the entire Levitical system of animal sacrifice, which was commanded for atonement and communion with God. At the same time, it describes brutal acts of warfare, murder, and profane idolatry. Through its various applications, **shâchaṭ** illustrates the critical distinction between holy sacrifice and unholy slaughter, linking the act of killing directly to themes of worship, judgment, and sin.