### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼôwtsâr**, represented by `{{H214}}`, refers to a place of storage, such as a **treasury**, **storehouse**, or **armory**. It appears 79 times across 70 unique verses in the Bible. The term is used for depositories of physical wealth, such as gold and silver, as well as for God's divine resources and weapons of judgment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H214}}` is used in several key contexts. It denotes God’s own storehouse of provision, from which He opens His "good **treasure**" to give rain to the land [[Deuteronomy 28:12]] and brings forth the wind from His **treasuries** [[Psalms 135:7]]. The term is also used for the physical **treasury** of a king or temple, where valuable items like gold, silver, and consecrated vessels were kept ([[1 Kings 15:18]], [[Daniel 1:2]]). Beyond material wealth, `{{H214}}` can refer to an **armoury** of judgment, as when the LORD opens His armoury and brings forth the weapons of His indignation [[Jeremiah 50:25]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of storing wealth and valuables:
* `{{H686}}` **ʼâtsar** (to store up): This is the primitive root from which `{{H214}}` is derived. It refers to the act of storing or laying up treasure, such as when treasurers were appointed over the treasuries [[Nehemiah 13:13]].
* `{{H2633}}` **chôçen** (wealth, riches, strength, treasure): This word for wealth or strength is often used in parallel with `{{H214}}`, as when Jeremiah foretells that the "strength" and all the "treasures" of the city will be given to its enemies [[Jeremiah 20:5]].
* `{{H4301}}` **maṭmôwn** (hidden riches, (hid) treasure(-s)): This term emphasizes secreted or buried valuables. It appears alongside `{{H214}}` in God's promise to give the "**treasures** of darkness, and hidden riches of secret places" [[Isaiah 45:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H214}}` is significant, highlighting themes of divine provision, judgment, and the nature of true wealth.
* **God's Bountiful Provision:** The concept of the LORD's **treasure** or **storehouse** represents His limitless capacity to bless His people. He opens His heavens to provide rain [[Deuteronomy 28:12]] and commands His people to bring tithes into the **storehouse** so that there may be blessing [[Malachi 3:10]]. God also controls the elements, bringing wind from His **treasuries** [[Psalms 135:7]].
* **The Contrast of True and Wicked Treasure:** Scripture contrasts fleeting, ill-gotten wealth with enduring, righteous treasure. "**Treasures** of wickedness profit nothing" [[Proverbs 10:2]], while the "fear of the LORD is his **treasure**" [[Isaiah 33:6]]. A desirable **treasure** is found in the dwelling of the wise, but a foolish man consumes it [[Proverbs 21:20]].
* **Judgment and False Security:** Trusting in earthly **treasures** leads to downfall. God warns that those who trust in their works and **treasures** will be taken captive [[Jeremiah 48:7]]. As an instrument of judgment, the LORD opens His **armoury** `{{H214}}` to punish the wicked [[Jeremiah 50:25]], and the plundering of a nation's **treasures** signifies its defeat and judgment [[2 Kings 24:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H214}}` is more than just a physical depository for valuables. It is a powerful biblical symbol that illustrates God's sovereignty over both blessing and judgment. The word moves from a literal **storehouse** for tithes and royal wealth to a metaphor for God's divine provision, His armory of wrath, and the ultimate value of wisdom and the fear of the LORD. It teaches that while earthly **treasures** can be plundered and provide a false sense of security, true treasure is found in a right relationship with God.
TRV