masculine intensive from בָּצַר; a fortress; stronghold.
Transliteration:bitstsârôwn
Pronunciation:bits-tsaw-rone'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word bitstsârôwn (בִּצָּרוֹן, `{{H1225}}`) is a masculine intensive noun derived from the verb root bātsar (בָּצַר, `{{H1219}}`), which primarily means "to cut off," "to make inaccessible," "to fortify," or "to gather" (as in grapes, implying cutting off from the vine). The intensive form of bitstsârôwn emphasizes a place that is exceedingly fortified or made impregnable. Thus, its core meaning is "a fortress" or "a stronghold," denoting a heavily defended and secure location. The semantic range points to a place of refuge and strategic importance, designed to withstand attack and provide safety.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word bitstsârôwn (בִּצָּרוֹן, `{{H1225}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in the book of Zechariah:
* [[Zechariah 9:12]]: "Return to the stronghold, you prisoners of hope; today I declare that I will restore double to you."
In this singular occurrence, the "stronghold" (בִּצָּרוֹן) is not a literal, physical fortification. Instead, it functions as a powerful metaphor. The context is a prophetic oracle concerning the future restoration of Israel. The phrase "prisoners of hope" refers to the exiles or those in distress who, despite their confinement or suffering, maintain an enduring hope in God's deliverance. The imperative "Return to the stronghold" is an invitation for these afflicted ones to turn back to God Himself, who is presented as their ultimate refuge and source of security. The subsequent promise of "double restoration" underscores that this divine stronghold offers not just safety, but abundant recompense and blessing for their past trials. The passage thus elevates the concept of a physical fortress to a spiritual reality, identifying God as the secure haven for His people.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of a "stronghold" or "refuge" is rich in biblical theology and is conveyed by several related Hebrew terms:
* **bātsar (בָּצַר, `{{H1219}}`):** The verbal root from which bitstsârôwn is derived. It signifies the act of fortifying or making inaccessible.
* **mibtṣār (מִבְצָר, `{{H4013}}`):** Another noun derived from bātsar, meaning "fortified place," "fortress," or "defense." It is more common than bitstsârôwn and often refers to actual fortified cities (e.g., [[Numbers 32:17]], [[Joshua 10:20]]).
* **ma'oz (מָעוֹז, `{{H4581}}`):** This widely used term means "stronghold," "fortress," "refuge," or "strength." It frequently describes God as the strength and refuge of His people (e.g., [[Psalm 28:8]], [[Psalm 31:2]], [[Nahum 1:7]]).
* **miśgāb (מִשְׂגָּב, `{{H4869}}`):** Meaning "high tower," "refuge," or "stronghold," this word also often refers to God as a secure haven (e.g., [[Psalm 9:9]], [[Psalm 18:2]]).
* **ṣûr (צוּר, `{{H6697}}`):** Literally "rock," but commonly used metaphorically for God as a firm foundation, strength, and refuge (e.g., [[Deuteronomy 32:4]], [[Psalm 18:2]]).
These related words collectively emphasize the divine attribute of being a protector, a deliverer, and an unassailable refuge for those who trust in Him.
### Theological Significance
Despite its single occurrence, the theological significance of bitstsârôwn in [[Zechariah 9:12]] is profound. It transcends the literal understanding of a physical fortress to symbolize God Himself as the ultimate stronghold for His people. The phrase "Return to the stronghold, you prisoners of hope," encapsulates a core biblical truth: true security and deliverance are found not in human might or fortifications, but in turning to and relying upon the Lord. This passage underscores God's character as a faithful protector and restorer, providing a secure haven even for those in the most desperate circumstances. It portrays God as the source of enduring hope, capable of transforming captivity into double blessing. The "stronghold" here is a place of divine presence, where covenantal promises are fulfilled, and where the vulnerable find unshakeable safety and abundant restoration. It is a powerful affirmation of God's sovereignty and His unwavering commitment to His people, inviting them to trust in His impregnable faithfulness.
### Summary
The Hebrew word bitstsârôwn (בִּצָּרוֹן, `{{H1225}}`) denotes a "fortress" or "stronghold," emphasizing intense fortification and security, derived from the root bātsar (בָּצַר, `{{H1219}}`). Its singular yet powerful appearance in [[Zechariah 9:12]] elevates its meaning beyond a physical structure. Here, it metaphorically represents God Himself as the ultimate refuge and secure haven for His people, particularly for the "prisoners of hope." This usage aligns bitstsârôwn with other key biblical terms for divine protection and refuge (e.g., ma'oz `{{H4581}}`, miśgāb `{{H4869}}`). The word encapsulates the theological truth that true safety, hope, and restoration are found in turning to and trusting in God, who promises abundant blessing to those who seek their stronghold in Him.
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