חַת (chat)
chat
terror; shattered
H:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-M
Word Overview
The Hebrew word chat describes a state of being shattered or terrified. It conveys more than simple fear; it implies a psychological breaking where courage fails and the spirit is crushed. In Scripture, this term often depicts the sudden collapse of resolve under the weight of extreme dread.
Its usage highlights how divine intervention can dismantle human confidence. For instance, in Genesis 35:5, God places a terror from Him upon the surrounding cities, causing them to scatter in panic. Similarly, in Jeremiah, the word illustrates how the enemy’s advance leaves the people shattered and dismayed, unable to stand firm.
This term appears in only three verses, primarily in Jeremiah and 1 Samuel, underscoring its specific role in describing moments of decisive defeat or divine judgment. It captures the visceral reality of fear that paralyzes rather than merely warns, serving as a stark reminder of human vulnerability before sovereign power.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word chat points to a profound breaking of spirit. It describes more than simple nervousness; it is the collapse of courage under overwhelming pressure. When we face situations that seem too large for our strength, this term reminds us that human resolve can fracture. The Bible does not hide this reality but names it honestly, showing how fear can paralyze even the strongest among us.
In Genesis 35:5, God places a terror upon surrounding cities, causing them to scatter. This shows that divine power can dismantle human confidence instantly. Yet, this is not merely about punishment. It reveals our vulnerability before sovereign authority. Recognizing this fragility helps us stop relying on our own unshakeable resolve and instead look toward the One who holds all things together.
When we feel crushed by circumstances, chat validates that experience. It is not a sign of weak faith but a human response to extreme dread. We can bring this shattered state to God without pretense. In our weakness, we find space for grace, trusting that He sustains us when our own strength gives way.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ dread/ your1×
- [will be] terrified1×
- [are] shattered1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- חַתִּים֮1×
- חַתִּ֑ים1×
- וְ/חִתְּ/כֶם֙1×
Key Verses
-
Jeremiah 46:5
Why have I seen it? They are dismayed and are turned backward. Their mighty ones are beaten down, have fled in haste, and don’t look back. Terror is on every side,” says Yahweh.
Here the word describes the psychological collapse of an army, where 'terror is on every side' leads to immediate flight and defeat.