### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **zâkak**, represented by `{{H2141}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to be transparent or clean**, either physically or morally. It appears 4 times in 4 unique verses in the Bible. The term is used to describe a state of being clean or pure, setting a high standard for both physical appearance and moral standing.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H2141}}` establishes a stark contrast between divine perfection and created imperfection. In the book of Job, it is used twice to emphasize that from God's perspective, even the heavens are not **clean** [[Job 15:15]] and the stars are not **pure** [[Job 25:5]]. Job himself uses the term when contemplating the futility of his own efforts, stating that even if he were to "make my hands never so **clean**" with snow water, it would be insufficient [[Job 9:30]]. The word is also used to describe the ideal appearance of consecrated individuals, as the Nazarites were said to be **purer** than snow [[Lamentations 4:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the scope of cleanliness and consecration associated with `{{H2141}}`:
* `{{H7364}}` **râchats** (to lave; bathe, wash): This verb is directly linked to achieving a state of cleanness. In [[Job 9:30]], the act of washing is the precursor to the attempt at making one's hands **clean** `{{H2141}}`.
* `{{H5139}}` **nâzîyr** (separate, consecrated): This term describes a person set apart for God. The purity of the Nazarites is explicitly described using **zâkak** in [[Lamentations 4:7]], connecting a state of consecration to an ideal of purity.
* `{{H7950}}` **sheleg** (snow): Snow is used as a benchmark for purity and whiteness in scripture. It is the substance Job imagines using to wash himself [[Job 9:30]] and the standard against which the Nazarites' purity is measured [[Lamentations 4:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2141}}` is significant, primarily in its exploration of divine and human purity.
* **The Absolute Purity of God:** The word is used to establish that no part of the created order, including the heavens and stars, meets God's standard of purity ([[Job 15:15]], [[Job 25:5]]). This highlights a fundamental separation between the Creator's perfect nature and that of His creation.
* **The Ideal of Consecration:** In [[Lamentations 4:7]], the Nazarites are described as **purer** `{{H2141}}` than snow. This presents a physical and moral ideal for those who are separated `{{H5139}}` for God, linking purity to devotion and a consecrated life.
* **The Limits of Human Effort:** Job's statement in [[Job 9:30]] illustrates the theme of human inability to achieve divine purity through personal action. Despite his best efforts to wash and be **clean**, he recognizes his standing before a holy God remains unresolved.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2141}}` **zâkak** conveys a profound concept of purity that transcends simple physical cleanliness. It functions as a powerful theological term used to contrast the absolute holiness of God with the relative impurity of all creation. Through its application to both the heavens and humanity, it illustrates the unattainable nature of divine purity by human means, while also holding up the consecrated life of the Nazarite as an earthly ideal of being clean and pure.
TRV