יָקַע

יָקַע

properly, to sever oneself, i.e. (by implication) to be dislocated; figuratively, to abandon; causatively

Definition

The Hebrew verb יָקַע (yâqaʻ) carries a core meaning of 'to be dislocated' or 'to be torn apart,' both literally and figuratively. In its literal sense, it describes a physical dislocation, as seen in Genesis 32:25 where Jacob's hip socket was 'put out of joint' during his wrestling match. Figuratively, it expresses the idea of alienation, abandonment, or being severed from a relationship, such as Israel being 'alienated' from God in Jeremiah 6:8. In a causative sense, the word is used for the brutal act of impaling or hanging bodies, as in the executions during King David's reign in 2 Samuel 21:6-13, where bodies were exposed to the elements.

Biblical Usage

This word is used eight times in the Old Testament, primarily in narrative and prophetic books. Its usage spans three main contexts: 1) Physical dislocation (Genesis 32:25). 2) Figurative alienation from God or a covenant relationship (Jeremiah 6:8; Ezekiel 23:17-18). 3) Judicial execution by impaling or hanging, often as a form of curse and public display (Numbers 25:4; 2 Samuel 21:6-13). The prophetic books use it metaphorically to describe spiritual infidelity and its consequences.

Etymology

Derived from a primitive root, יָקַע (yâqaʻ) fundamentally means to be split, severed, or dislocated. Cognates in other Semitic languages support meanings related to breaking or tearing. The semantic range developed from the physical sense of a joint being torn apart to encompass metaphorical separation (alienation) and the violent, public act of impalement which causes the body to be 'torn' from the community.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it vividly portrays the consequences of sin, both relational and judicial. It illustrates the severe rupture in humanity's relationship with God (alienation) and the ultimate curse of death under divine law (impalement). In Genesis 32:25, the dislocation becomes a turning point in Jacob's life, marking his transformation into Israel. Understanding this word enriches the reading of passages about covenant faithfulness, judgment, and the profound physical and spiritual brokenness that requires divine intervention. In its ancient Near Eastern context, the act of impaling or hanging bodies (2 Samuel 21) was not just an execution method but a powerful cultural symbol of being cursed, shamed, and completely cut off from the land and people. It served as a public deterrent and a declaration that the executed person was under divine wrath. The figurative use of 'alienation' would resonate with a culture where community and covenant relationships were paramount to identity and survival. נָתַק (nāṯaq, H5423) — to tear away or apart, often by force; emphasizes a violent separation. פָּרַד (pāraḏ, H6504) — to separate or divide; can be a neutral or deliberate distancing, less violent than יָקַע. עָזַב (ʿāzaḇ, H5800) — to leave, forsake, or abandon; focuses on the act of leaving rather than the state of being torn.

Word Details