from בָּצַע; plunder; by extension, gain (usually unjust); covetousness, (dishonest) gain, lucre, profit.
Transliteration:betsaʻ
Pronunciation:beh'-tsah
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun `{{H1215}}` (בֶּצַע, *betsaʻ*) derives from the verbal root `{{H1214}}` (בָּצַע, *batsaʻ*), meaning "to cut off," "to break off," or "to make a gain." The core meaning of `{{H1215}}` thus pertains to something "cut off" or "acquired," often with an underlying implication of force or illicit means. While its most basic sense can refer to "plunder" or "spoil" (that which is violently taken), its semantic range in biblical usage overwhelmingly emphasizes "gain" that is acquired unjustly, dishonestly, or through covetousness. It denotes ill-gotten profit, dishonest lucre, extortion, or the greedy desire for such gain. The term frequently carries a strong negative connotation, highlighting the moral corruption inherent in its acquisition.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{H1215}}` appears approximately 20 times in the Old Testament, predominantly in prophetic and wisdom literature, underscoring its ethical and theological significance. Its usage consistently points to actions or desires that violate justice and righteousness:
* **Dishonest Gain and Bribery:** A prominent usage of `{{H1215}}` describes the corrupt practices of those in positions of authority. The sons of Samuel are condemned for their pursuit of `{{H1215}}`, taking bribes and perverting justice ([[1 Samuel 8:3]]). Similarly, the prophet Micah denounces the leaders, priests, and prophets of Jerusalem who "judge for a bribe," "teach for a price," and "divine for money," all driven by `{{H1215}}` ([[Micah 3:11]]). Ezekiel condemns the princes of Israel for being "like wolves tearing the prey, shedding blood, destroying lives to get dishonest gain" ([[Ezekiel 22:27]]). These contexts reveal `{{H1215}}` as a destructive force that undermines societal order and divine law.
* **Covetousness and Greed:** Beyond the act of acquiring, `{{H1215}}` also describes the internal disposition of greed or covetousness. Proverbs warns that "so are the ways of everyone who is greedy for gain; it takes away the life of its possessors" ([[Proverbs 1:19]]). Jeremiah repeatedly laments that "from the least to the greatest of them, everyone is greedy for unjust gain" ([[Jeremiah 6:13]], [[Jeremiah 8:10]]), indicating a widespread moral decay rooted in this desire. This highlights that `{{H1215}}` is not merely an external act but also an internal corruption of the heart.
* **Righteousness as an Antithesis:** The pursuit of `{{H1215}}` is often contrasted with the behavior of the righteous. Isaiah describes the one who "walks righteously and speaks uprightly, who despises the gain of oppressions, who shakes his hands, lest they hold a bribe" ([[Isaiah 33:15]]). This verse clearly defines righteousness as a rejection of `{{H1215}}`, emphasizing integrity and moral purity as essential characteristics of those who fear the Lord.
### Related Words & Concepts
`{{H1215}}` is closely related to other Hebrew terms that describe illicit gain, corruption, and moral failing:
* **`{{H7939}}` (shochad):** "Bribe," often received for perverting justice, directly linked to `{{H1215}}` in contexts like [[1 Samuel 8:3]].
* **`{{H2543}}` (chemdah):** "Desire," "covetousness," often used in a negative sense, reflecting the inner lust for what is not rightfully one's own.
* **`{{H5375}}` (neshekh):** "Usury" or "interest," particularly when exploitative, which is another form of unjust gain condemned in the Law.
* **`{{H6231}}` (osheq):** "Oppression" or "extortion," describing the act of acquiring wealth through the exploitation of the vulnerable, which often results in `{{H1215}}`.
The concept of `{{H1215}}` stands in stark opposition to biblical principles of `{{H6666}}` (tsedeq, "righteousness"), `{{H4941}}` (mishpat, "justice"), and `{{H571}}` (emunah, "faithfulness"). In the New Testament, the Greek word `{{G4149}}` (pleonexia), "covetousness" or "greed," captures a similar theological concept, often identified as a form of idolatry (e.g., [[Colossians 3:5]]).
### Theological Significance
The consistent condemnation of `{{H1215}}` throughout the Old Testament reveals profound theological implications.
* **Violation of God's Character and Law:** God is fundamentally just and righteous. The pursuit of `{{H1215}}` is a direct affront to His character and a transgression of His covenantal laws, particularly those against theft, coveting, and exploitation. It reflects a prioritizing of personal gain over divine commands and the well-being of the community.
* **Corruption and Moral Decay:** `{{H1215}}` is presented as a corrosive force that eats away at the moral fabric of individuals and society. It leads to perverted justice, oppression of the poor, and a general breakdown of ethical standards. The prophets frequently identify the widespread presence of `{{H1215}}` among leaders and the populace as a primary reason for divine judgment and national decline.
* **Idolatry of Wealth:** At its deepest level, the relentless pursuit of `{{H1215}}` can be understood as a form of idolatry. It signifies placing trust and ultimate value in material gain rather than in God. This misplaced devotion alienates individuals from God and leads to spiritual barrenness.
* **Consequences of Sin:** The biblical narrative consistently links `{{H1215}}` with severe consequences, including divine wrath, ruin, and the loss of blessing. Those who pursue dishonest gain are depicted as walking a path that ultimately leads to destruction, both for themselves and for those they exploit.
### Summary
The Hebrew word `{{H1215}}` (בֶּצַע, *betsaʻ*) primarily denotes "unjust gain," "ill-gotten profit," or the "covetous desire" for such acquisition. Derived from a root meaning "to cut off," it carries a strong connotation of gain obtained through illicit, violent, or exploitative means. Throughout the Old Testament, `{{H1215}}` is consistently condemned as a profound moral failing, characteristic of corrupt leaders, greedy individuals, and a society in rebellion against God's righteous standards. Its widespread presence is frequently cited as a cause for divine judgment, underscoring its theological significance as a violation of God's justice, a manifestation of human sinfulness, and a form of idolatry that prioritizes material wealth over divine will.
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