### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **śereṭ**, represented by `{{H8296}}`, refers to an **incision** or **cutting**. Derived from the root verb `{{H8295}}` meaning to gash, this term appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. It specifically denotes physical cuttings made in the flesh.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H8296}}` appears exclusively within the legal codes of Leviticus, where it is strictly forbidden. The first instance commands the general populace, "Ye shall not make any **cuttings** in your flesh for the dead" [[Leviticus 19:28]]. This prohibition links the act directly to mourning rituals. The second instance reiterates this for the priesthood, stating that priests shall not "make any **cuttings** in their flesh," a command given alongside prohibitions against ritual shaving and making baldness [[Leviticus 21:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of these prohibited practices:
* `{{H8295}}` **śāraṭ** (cut in pieces): The primitive root from which `{{H8296}}` is derived, meaning to gash. It is used as the verb for the action of making the **cuttings** forbidden in [[Leviticus 21:5]].
* `{{H7085}}` **qaʻăqaʻ** (mark): Used in parallel with `{{H8296}}` in [[Leviticus 19:28]], which forbids both **cuttings** for the dead and the printing of any **marks** on the body.
* `{{H7144}}` **qorchâh** (baldness): This term for ritual **baldness** is forbidden in the same context as cuttings for priests [[Leviticus 21:5]] and is mentioned as a sign of mourning and judgment elsewhere ([[Isaiah 15:2]], [[Amos 8:10]]).
* `{{H1548}}` **gâlach** (shave off): The act of shaving, which is restricted for priests alongside making cuttings [[Leviticus 21:5]], further defines the scope of prohibited mourning customs.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H8296}}` centers on the holiness of the body and the distinct identity of God's people.
* **Prohibition of Mourning Rites:** The term is used exclusively to forbid a specific physical expression of grief. The explicit mention of making **cuttings** "for the dead" [[Leviticus 19:28]] shows that God was regulating how his people were to mourn, setting them apart from surrounding practices.
* **Bodily Integrity:** The commands against marking or cutting the flesh establish a principle that the body is not to be disfigured. This is reinforced by the declaration that follows the prohibition in [[Leviticus 19:28]]: "I am the LORD."
* **Priestly Sanctity:** The repetition of the ban for priests in [[Leviticus 21:5]] highlights a higher standard of holiness required for those in ministerial service, who were to avoid these physical manifestations of grief entirely.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8296}}` is a specific and potent term for a forbidden act of incision. Though rare, its use in Leviticus is critical for understanding biblical laws regarding mourning and physical holiness. It serves as a clear instruction from God, prohibiting the people of Israel, and especially their priests, from engaging in self-cutting as a response to death, thereby distinguishing their practices from those of other nations.
TRV