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H2403 · Hebrew · Old Testament
חַטָּאת
chattath
Noun, feminine
sin, sin offering

Definition

Most common word for sin, about 300 times. From chata ('to miss the mark'). Remarkably, same word denotes both sin itself and sin offering atoning for it — problem and solution share one word.

Usage & Theological Significance

Dual meaning is theologically profound. In Lev 4-5, chattath sacrifice addresses unintentional sins. Paul: God 'made him to be sin for us' (2 Cor 5:21) — Christ became sin offering.

Key Bible Verses

Genesis 4:7 Sin is crouching at the door.
Leviticus 4:3 He shall offer a bull as sin offering.
Psalm 51:2 Cleanse me from my sin.
Isaiah 53:10 When his soul makes offering for guilt.
Psalm 32:1 Blessed is the one whose sin is covered.

Word Study

Root ch-t-a literally 'to miss' (Judg 20:16 for slingers missing target). Sin conceived as missing God's mark. Eschatological promise: fountain opened for chattath (Zech 13:1).

Related Words

External Resources

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