from an unused root meaning apparently to be sharp or strong; a weapon of war; chariot.
Transliteration:hôtsen
Pronunciation:ho'-tsen
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word הֹצֶן (hôtsen), Strong's H2021, is derived from an unused root, meaning "apparently to be sharp or strong." This inferred root suggests an underlying concept of formidable power, piercing capability, or robust construction. From this conceptual foundation, the word's primary applications emerge: "a weapon of war" and, more specifically, "chariot." The semantic range thus extends from an abstract quality of inherent strength or sharpness to concrete implements of military might. Given its rare occurrence, its precise nuance is heavily dependent on its singular biblical context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term הֹצֶן (hôtsen) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in [[Psalm 144:6]]. The verse reads: "Cast forth lightning, and scatter them: shoot out thine arrows, and destroy them." In this context, הֹצֶן is translated as "arrows" (KJV, ESV, NASB). The parallelism within the verse is crucial for understanding its meaning. The psalmist appeals to God to intervene against his enemies, employing powerful imagery of divine warfare. The request "Cast forth lightning" (בָּרָק - *bārāq*, `{{H1300}}`) is immediately followed by "shoot out thine arrows" (וּשְׁלַח חִצֶּיךָ - *ūshlach chitsteyka*, where *chitsteyka* refers to arrows, `{{H2671}}`). The use of הֹצֶן in this parallel structure strongly suggests a missile or projectile weapon, fitting the "arrows" interpretation. While the Strong's definition also includes "chariot," this meaning does not align well with the immediate poetic and military imagery of lightning and arrows in [[Psalm 144:6]]. Thus, in its sole biblical appearance, הֹצֶן functions as a vivid descriptor of God's destructive power, specifically as a weapon capable of scattering and destroying enemies, akin to arrows.
### Related Words & Concepts
Given the inferred meaning of "sharp or strong" from its unused root, הֹצֶן (hôtsen) resonates with several conceptual fields in biblical Hebrew. Words related to strength and power include:
* עֹז (*ʿōz*, `{{H5797}}`): strength, might, often divine.
* חָזַק (*ḥāzaq*, `{{H2389}}`): to be strong, firm, or courageous.
Words related to sharpness, piercing, or weapons include:
* חֵץ (*ḥēṣ*, `{{H2671}}`): arrow, dart, a direct parallel in [[Psalm 144:6]].
* שֶׁלַח (*šeleḥ*, `{{H7979}}`): missile, weapon, especially a projectile.
* חֶרֶב (*ḥerev*, `{{H2717}}`): sword, a cutting weapon.
* כְּלִי (*kělî*, `{{H3627}}`): vessel, implement, often used for weapons or military equipment.
While "chariot" (רֶכֶב - *rekhev*, `{{H7393}}`) is part of the Strong's definition, the contextual usage in [[Psalm 144:6]] aligns more closely with projectile weaponry. The connection to an "unused root" means its lexical relatives are conceptual rather than direct morphological derivations.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of הֹצֶן (hôtsen) in [[Psalm 144:6]] carries profound theological weight. It is employed in a context of divine intervention, depicting God as the ultimate warrior who actively defends His people. The imagery of God "shooting out His הֹצֶן" (arrows) immediately following the "casting forth lightning" underscores His absolute sovereignty and irresistible power over all earthly opposition. This word serves to magnify God's might as the one who can effortlessly dismantle the strongest human forces. It speaks to:
* **Divine Deliverance:** God's willingness and ability to fight on behalf of His covenant people.
* **Divine Judgment:** The certainty and efficacy of God's judgment against those who oppose His purposes.
* **God's Omnipotence:** The portrayal of God wielding such potent "weapons" emphasizes His limitless power and control over the cosmos and human history.
The use of this rare and powerful term elevates the psalmist's plea, affirming a deep trust in God's capacity to act decisively and victoriously in times of distress.
### Summary
הֹצֶן (hôtsen), Strong's H2021, is a rare Hebrew word derived from an unused root signifying "sharpness" or "strength." While its broader definition includes "chariot" and "weapon of war," its sole biblical appearance in [[Psalm 144:6]] strongly points to its meaning as "arrows" or another formidable projectile weapon wielded by God. In this singular context, הֹצֶן serves as a powerful descriptor of divine might, illustrating God's active intervention, irresistible judgment, and unwavering commitment to delivering His people through overwhelming displays of power. It underscores the theological truth of God as the supreme Warrior, whose instruments of war are precise, effective, and awe-inspiring.
TRV