קָלַט

קָלַט

to maim

Definition

The Hebrew verb קָלַט (qâlaṭ) means to maim, injure, or cause a physical defect, specifically by crushing or bruising. It appears only in Leviticus 22:23, where it describes an animal that has a limb that is 'too long' or 'too short' (often interpreted as a deformed or crushed limb). The term is used in a legal and ritual context to disqualify such an animal from being offered as a freewill offering to God, though it could still be used for a voluntary offering. The core idea is of a blemish resulting from injury, not a congenital defect.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the Old Testament, in Leviticus 22:23, within the Priestly law code. Its usage is strictly confined to the context of sacrificial regulations. It describes a specific type of physical imperfection in a bull, lamb, or goat that renders it unsuitable for certain types of votive offerings. The pattern shows it is a technical term for a disqualifying injury within the Levitical purity system.

Etymology

קָלַט is a primitive root. Its exact derivation is uncertain, but it is generally connected to the idea of being bruised, crushed, or maimed. Cognates in other Semitic languages suggest meanings related to breaking or pounding. The meaning development appears straightforward, moving from the physical action of injuring to the resulting state of being defective.

Semantic Range

This word matters theologically as it underscores the holiness and perfection required in offerings presented to God (Leviticus 22:21). It highlights that God's standards are high, and what is given to Him must be without flaw, reflecting His own perfect nature. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches reading by clarifying that the law cared not just for congenital defects but also for injuries acquired in life, emphasizing the concept of wholeness and integrity in worship. In its original setting, this term was part of a detailed agricultural and sacrificial system. An animal with a crushed or maimed limb (qâlaṭ) was considered imperfect and thus less valuable for a formal vow, though not utterly worthless (it could be used for a freewill offering). This reflects a cultural understanding of gradations in offerings and the economic and symbolic value placed on physical wholeness in ritual objects. שָׁבַר (shāvar, H7665) — to break, shatter (more general). מוּם (mûm, H3971) — a blemish or defect (the general noun for imperfection).

Word Details