### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **bᵉtsar**, represented by `{{H1222}}`, is a specific term for **gold**. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible. Its sole usage occurs in a context that questions the ultimate value of material wealth, positioning **gold** as a prime example of earthly riches that hold no special esteem from a divine perspective.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical occurrence of `{{H1222}}` is found in [[Job 36:19]], where it is used to illustrate the limits of material wealth. In the passage, a rhetorical question is posed: "Will he esteem thy riches? no, not **gold** `{{H1222}}`, nor all the forces of strength." Here, **gold** is explicitly listed as something that is not valued, functioning as the pinnacle of human treasure that is nevertheless insufficient.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of `{{H1222}}` is clarified by the words used alongside it in its only appearance:
* `{{H7769}}` **shûwaʻ** (a halloo; cry, riches): This word is presented as "riches" in [[Job 36:19]], serving as a general term for wealth which is then specified by the inclusion of **gold**.
* `{{H6186}}` **ʻârak** (to... arrange... compare... esteem... value): As the verb "esteem" in [[Job 36:19]], this word establishes the central theme of valuation. It questions how wealth like **gold** is measured or valued, a concept also seen when God's works are so numerous they cannot be "reckoned up in order" [[Psalms 40:5]].
* `{{H3981}}` **maʼămâts** (strength... resources; force): Appearing as "forces" in [[Job 36:19]], this term describes the resources or might that, along with gold, are deemed inadequate.
* `{{H3581}}` **kôach** (vigor... strength... power... wealth): This word for "strength" is often contrasted with divine ability, as in the declaration, "Not by might, nor by **power** `{{H3581}}`, but by my spirit, saith the LORD" [[Zechariah 4:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H1222}}` is derived entirely from its singular, specific context.
* **The Insufficiency of Wealth:** The primary role of **bᵉtsar** is to demonstrate that even the most precious of earthly materials, **gold**, has no inherent value or persuasive power in a divine economy. It stands as a symbol of human wealth that cannot save or influence a higher judgment [[Job 36:19]].
* **Contrasting Earthly and Divine Power:** By being placed alongside "forces" `{{H3981}}` and "strength" `{{H3581}}`, **gold** is categorized as a form of human power. The passage directly contrasts this with what God esteems, echoing the principle that divine work is accomplished not by human might but by God's spirit [[Zechariah 4:6]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1222}}` **bᵉtsar** is a term for **gold** whose biblical meaning is defined by its single appearance. It is not used to describe ornamentation or currency, but to serve a specific theological purpose in [[Job 36:19]]. There, it functions as the ultimate symbol of material treasure, only to be dismissed as insufficient. It powerfully illustrates the biblical principle that the value systems of humanity, where **gold** is supreme, do not align with the divine standard.
TRV