The Hebrew word sêṭ, represented by H7846, is defined as a departure from right, i.e. sin; revolter, that turn aside. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 times across 1 unique verses in the Bible. Its meaning is focused on the concept of turning away or rebelling against the correct path.
In its sole biblical appearance, H7846 is used to describe those who have willfully turned against God. The verse states, "And the revolters are profound to make slaughter, though I have been a rebuker of them all" Hosea 5:2. Here, the word identifies a group whose rebellion is not passive but is characterized by a deep-seated commitment to violence and evil, a path they pursue even in the face of divine correction.
The words used alongside H7846 in Hosea 5:2 provide critical context for its meaning:
- H6009 ʻâmaq (to be... deep... profound): This word describes the extent of the revolters' commitment to their wicked plans. Their rebellion is not superficial but "profound." This same word is used elsewhere to describe how the children of Israel had "deeply revolted" Isaiah 31:6.
- H7819 shâchaṭ (to slaughter... kill, offer, slay): This specifies the violent nature of the revolters' actions. While sometimes used for legitimate sacrifice Leviticus 1:5, in this context it points to a corrupt and deadly purpose, akin to the wicked "slaying the children" mentioned in Isaiah 57:5.
- H4148 mûwçâr (chastisement... reproof, warning or instruction... rebuke): This is what the revolters ignore. God acts as a "rebuker," but they continue in their ways. This rejection of divine discipline is a theme found elsewhere, as in Proverbs 1:7 which states that fools despise wisdom and "instruction."
The theological weight of H7846 is concentrated in its single, stark usage.
- The Depth of Rebellion: The term, when paired with "profound" H6009, illustrates that turning from God is not merely a mistake but can be a deliberate and deeply rooted course of action that leads to further depravity, such as "slaughter" Hosea 5:2.
- Rejection of Correction: The essence of being a "revolter" is tied to the active rejection of God's "rebuke" H4148. This highlights that sin often involves ignoring divine warning and discipline, a concept central to passages that plead with believers not to despise the "chastening of the LORD" Proverbs 3:11.
- Sin as Departure: The word's core definition, "a departure from right," frames sin as a deviation from a divinely established standard. The context in Hosea 5:2 shows the grave consequences of such a departure.
In summary, H7846 sêṭ provides a concise and powerful label for a "revolter." Though used only once, its context in Hosea 5:2 paints a vivid picture of rebellion. It is not just about turning aside, but about doing so with a profound commitment to evil and a deliberate rejection of God's instruction. The word encapsulates the grave nature of sin as a willful departure from divine authority that leads to destructive ends.
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