טִבְחָה

טִבְחָה

Definition

The Hebrew noun טִבְחָה (ṭibchâh) refers to 'slaughtered meat' or 'flesh prepared for eating.' It specifically denotes meat that has been butchered and is ready for consumption, often in the context of a feast or meal. In 1 Samuel 25:11, it describes the provisions Nabal refused to share with David's men. In Psalm 44:22, it is used metaphorically, comparing the persecuted faithful to 'sheep for the slaughter.' Jeremiah 12:3 also employs it figuratively, speaking of the wicked being 'set apart for the day of slaughter.'

Biblical Usage

טִבְחָה appears only three times in the Old Testament, each in a distinct context. Its literal use is found in 1 Samuel 25:11, referring to actual butchered meat. Its two other occurrences are poetic and metaphorical. In Psalm 44:22, it describes the suffering of God's people, and in Jeremiah 12:3, it portrays the judgment awaiting the wicked. The word is used in narrative, psalm, and prophetic literature.

Etymology

טִבְחָה is the feminine form of the masculine noun טֶבַח (ṭebach, H2874), which means 'slaughter' or 'slaughtering.' Both derive from the root ט-ב-ח (ṭ-b-ḥ), meaning 'to slaughter' or 'to butcher.' The feminine form often carries a more specific, concrete sense—here, the product of the slaughter (the meat) rather than the act itself. Cognates exist in other Semitic languages with similar meanings related to killing or cutting.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant due to its metaphorical use. In Psalm 44:22, it powerfully conveys the idea of innocent suffering and devotion, as God's people are compared to sheep led to slaughter out of faithfulness. In Jeremiah 12:3, it relates to divine justice and the judgment of the wicked. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches reading by highlighting the stark imagery of sacrifice, suffering, and judgment in these key passages. In ancient Israelite culture, slaughtering an animal for meat was often tied to communal meals, hospitality, and sacrificial practices. The refusal to share טִבְחָה, as Nabal did, was a grave social offense, violating norms of generosity and protection. The metaphorical use draws directly from the common agricultural practice of slaughtering livestock, making the imagery of being 'prepared for slaughter' immediately visceral and understandable to the original audience. טֶבַח (ṭebach, H2874) — the masculine form, more often refers to the act of slaughter or a slaughtering place. זֶבַח (zevach, H2077) — a sacrifice or slaughtered offering, often with a ritual or worship context. בָּשָׂר (basar, H1320) — a more general term for flesh or meat, not necessarily slaughtered.

Word Details