כָּרַת

to cut (off, down or asunder); by implication, to destroy or consume; specifically

Definition

The verb כָּרַת (kârath) fundamentally means 'to cut,' but its meaning extends into several significant domains. In its literal sense, it describes the physical act of cutting down trees (Deuteronomy 19:5) or cutting off body parts (1 Samuel 5:4). More importantly, it is the primary Hebrew verb for 'to make a covenant,' a concept derived from the ancient ritual of cutting animals in half to solemnize an agreement, as seen in God's covenant with Abraham (Genesis 15:18). By extension, the word can imply destruction or being cut off from life or community, such as being 'cut off' from one's people for violating a law (Genesis 17:14).

Biblical Usage

כָּרַת is used approximately 280 times across the Old Testament, with its usage heavily concentrated in narrative and legal texts. Its most theologically significant use is for establishing covenants, appearing over 80 times in this sense, especially in Genesis (e.g., Genesis 9:11; 21:27), Exodus, and the historical books. The sense of 'cutting down' or destroying is common in prophetic and poetic books (e.g., Isaiah 10:33; Psalm 90:6). The implication of being 'cut off' (excommunicated or destroyed) is frequent in the Pentateuch's legal sections (e.g., Exodus 12:15).

Etymology

כָּרַת is a primitive root, meaning its origin is not derived from another Hebrew word. Its core meaning is simply 'to cut.' This concrete action gave rise to its abstract meanings. The concept of covenant-making (כָּרַת בְּרִית, karath bĕriyth) directly originates from the ritual practice of cutting animals to formalize a treaty, where parties would walk between the pieces, symbolizing a self-curse for breaking the pact. Cognates exist in other Semitic languages, like Akkadian 'karātu,' also meaning 'to cut.'

Semantic Range

This word is central to understanding the biblical concept of covenant, the foundational framework for God's relationship with humanity. From Noah to the New Covenant, the act of 'cutting' a covenant signifies a solemn, binding commitment initiated by God. The term also connects covenant faithfulness with consequences; to break covenant is to risk being 'cut off.' Understanding this Hebrew term enriches reading by revealing the gravity and tangible symbolism behind God's promises and warnings throughout Scripture.

In the ancient Near East, formal agreements or treaties were often ratified through a ritual where an animal was cut in two, and the parties walked between the pieces. This act symbolized a vow, essentially saying, 'May what happened to this animal happen to me if I break this pact.' When the Bible says God 'cut a covenant' (Genesis 15), it uses imagery its original audience understood as the most serious and binding form of agreement. The modern concept of a contract or handshake lacks this visceral, ritual weight.

גָּזַר (gāzar, H1504) — to cut, divide, or decree; often used for cutting stone or making a decisive decree. בָּתַק (bāthaq, H1234) — to cut off or down, often in the sense of breaking through (e.g., a wall). כָּרָה (kārâh, H3738) — to dig; a different but phonetically similar root.

Word Details

Scripture References