לָכַד

to catch (in a net, trap or pit); generally, to capture or occupy; also to choose (by lot); figuratively, to cohere

Definition

The Hebrew verb לָכַד (lâkad) primarily means 'to capture' or 'to seize,' often in a military context, such as the capture of cities (e.g., Numbers 21:32, Deuteronomy 2:34). It also refers to physically catching something, like prey in a trap or net. In a specialized sense, it describes the process of 'taking' or 'choosing' by lot, as in the allocation of land or possessions (Joshua 18:6). Figuratively, it can mean to 'hold fast' or 'cohere,' as seen in Job 41:17, where scales are described as sticking tightly together.

Biblical Usage

לָכַד is used 112 times, predominantly in historical narratives like Joshua, Judges, and Samuel, where it describes the conquest and capture of cities and territories (e.g., Joshua 6:20, 1 Samuel 30:2). It appears in legal contexts regarding the division of land by lot (Joshua 18:6, 10) and in poetic or wisdom literature for metaphorical grasping or cohesion (Job 41:17). The verb is almost exclusively used in the Qal stem, emphasizing simple, active capture.

Etymology

As a primitive root, לָכַד is not derived from another Hebrew word. Cognates exist in other Semitic languages, such as Akkadian 'lekû' (to take) and Ugaritic 'lkd' (to capture), indicating a shared ancient meaning of seizing or acquiring. The core idea of taking hold, whether physically or by chance, is consistent across its usage.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it underscores God's sovereignty in granting victory in conquest, as seen in the capture of Canaanite cities, which was understood as divine judgment and fulfillment of promise (Deuteronomy 2:34-35). The concept of 'taking by lot' (Joshua 18:6-10) highlights God's direct oversight in the equitable distribution of the Promised Land, emphasizing His guidance in seemingly random processes. Understanding לָכַד enriches reading by revealing themes of divine provision, judgment, and control over human affairs.

In ancient Near Eastern culture, capturing a city often involved siege warfare, destruction, and taking plunder or prisoners, reflecting a common practice of territorial expansion and subjugation. The use of lots for decision-making was a widespread method to discern divine will, as seen in Ugaritic and other cultures, making לָכַד in that sense a culturally understood act of divine allocation rather than mere chance.

תָּפַשׂ (tāphas, H8610) — to seize or lay hold of, often with the hands, more general than capture in war; אָחַז (ʾāchaz, H270) — to grasp or take hold, can be physical or metaphorical, less aggressive than capture; כָּבַשׁ (kāvash, H3423) — to subdue or bring into bondage, emphasizes conquest and domination.

Word Details

Scripture References