### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **betser**, represented by `{{H1220}}`, is defined as **gold** (as dug out) or **gold defence**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. The term originates from a root meaning "a clipping," suggesting something valuable that has been mined or cut away.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H1220}}` is used in two distinct but related ways within the same chapter of Job. It first appears as **gold**, where it is to be laid up as common **dust** `{{H6083}}`, signifying a reordering of values [[Job 22:24]]. Immediately following, the term shifts to a figurative meaning of **defence**, with the **Almighty** `{{H7706}}` Himself serving as this source of security, far surpassing material wealth like **silver** `{{H3701}}` [[Job 22:25]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the meaning of `{{H1220}}` by providing context:
* `{{H7706}}` **Shadday** (the Almighty): In [[Job 22:25]], the **Almighty** is identified as the true **defence** `{{H1220}}`. This term is used to describe God's power, as when He appeared to Abram [[Genesis 17:1]] or as the source of life and inspiration [[Job 33:4]].
* `{{H3701}}` **keçeph** (silver; money): This word for precious metal or **money** is often used alongside gold. It is what one has in "plenty" when the Almighty is their defence [[Job 22:25]], but is also a material that God refines His people with, though not in a literal sense [[Isaiah 48:10]].
* `{{H6083}}` **ʻâphâr** (dust; earth): This term is set in direct contrast to **gold** `{{H1220}}`. It signifies something of low value, from which man was formed [[Genesis 2:7]] and to which the dead return [[Daniel 12:2]]. To treat gold as **dust** is to devalue earthly treasure [[Job 22:24]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1220}}` is centered on the contrast between earthly treasure and divine value.
* **Revaluation of Wealth:** The command to **lay up** `{{H7896}}` **gold** `{{H1220}}` as **dust** `{{H6083}}` establishes a core theological principle: material riches are insignificant [[Job 22:24]]. This is reinforced elsewhere, where silver and gold are unable to deliver them in the day of the LORD's wrath [[Zephaniah 1:18]].
* **God as True Treasure:** The word's dual meaning culminates in the declaration that the **Almighty** `{{H7706}}` Himself will be one's **defence** `{{H1220}}` [[Job 22:25]]. This positions God not just as a protector, but as the ultimate source of value, a concept echoed in terms like God being a **rock** `{{H6697}}` and **strength** `{{H6697}}` ([[Deuteronomy 32:4]], [[Psalms 73:26]]).
* **Divine Security:** By equating **defence** `{{H1220}}` with God, the term highlights a security that is not based on tangible assets. It is a spiritual state where God is a refuge, a place to be set up upon a **rock** `{{H6697}}` in times of trouble [[Psalms 27:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1220}}` carries a potent message within its two appearances. It transitions from the literal meaning of **gold**, a symbol of the highest earthly value, to the figurative meaning of **defence**, representing ultimate divine security. Through this word, the book of Job teaches that true worth and protection are found not in precious metals that can be regarded as **dust** [[Job 22:24]], but in the **Almighty** `{{H7706}}` Himself [[Job 22:25]]. The rarity of **betser** concentrates its theological impact, illustrating a profound shift from material trust to spiritual reliance.
TRV