A primitive root meaning to be broken in pieces, dismayed, terrified, or to terrify. The word describes the collapse of courage under overwhelming threat or divine judgment. It is the antithesis of the divine command 'Be strong and courageous' (chāzaq).
The repeated divine command throughout the Old Testament is lō tēchat — 'Do not be dismayed' (Josh. 1:9; Jer. 1:17; Isa. 41:10). This command gains its power from its contrast with the natural human response to overwhelming threat. Chātat describes the psychological shattering that happens when we face giants, enemies, or circumstances that tower over our capacity. God's 'Fear not — do not be chātat' is not a denial of real danger; it is an assertion that His presence changes the equation. Joshua 1:9 pairs the command with the promise: 'The Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.' The antidote to chātat is not human bravery but divine companionship. In the New Testament, John 14:27 echoes this: 'Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid' — Jesus speaking as the Yahweh of presence who goes with His people.