### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **zâraq**, represented by `{{H2236}}`, is a primitive root defined as to sprinkle fluid or solid particles, or to scatter, strew, or be here and there. It appears **35 times** across **33 unique verses** in the Bible, primarily describing acts of ritual and symbolic significance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H2236}}` is most frequently used to describe the ceremonial act of sprinkling blood. Priests are commanded to **sprinkle** the blood `{{H1818}}` of sacrifices "round about upon the altar" `{{H4196}}` as a central part of burnt offerings and peace offerings ([[Leviticus 1:5]], [[Leviticus 3:2]]). This action is not limited to the altar; Moses **sprinkled** blood on the people to ratify the covenant with the LORD [[Exodus 24:8]]. The word is also used for scattering solid materials, such as Moses sprinkling ashes toward heaven to initiate a plague [[Exodus 9:10]], Job's friends sprinkling dust on their heads in mourning [[Job 2:12]], and the dust of destroyed idols being strowed on graves [[2 Chronicles 34:4]]. Figuratively, it describes God's promise to **sprinkle** clean water for spiritual purification [[Ezekiel 36:25]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context and meaning of `{{H2236}}`:
* `{{H1818}}` **dâm** (blood): This is the substance most commonly sprinkled. The act of sprinkling blood is essential for covenant and sacrifice, as seen when Moses **sprinkled** the "blood of the covenant" [[Exodus 24:8]].
* `{{H4196}}` **mizbêach** (altar): This is the primary location where sacrificial blood is sprinkled. The action is consistently directed "upon the **altar** round about" ([[Leviticus 1:11]], [[Exodus 29:16]]).
* `{{H2891}}` **ṭâhêr** (cleanse): This word describes the result of the sprinkling action in a theological context. God promises, "Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye shall be **clean**" [[Ezekiel 36:25]].
* `{{H5439}}` **çâbîyb** (round about): This adverb specifies the manner of sprinkling in many rituals, indicating a complete application of blood upon the altar ([[Exodus 29:20]], [[Leviticus 7:2]]).
* `{{H5079}}` **niddâh** (separation, uncleanness): The failure to have the water of **separation** sprinkled results in continued uncleanness [[Numbers 19:13]]. This highlights the purifying power associated with the act of sprinkling.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2236}}` is significant, highlighting key spiritual concepts:
* **Atonement and Sacrifice:** The sprinkling of blood on the altar `{{H4196}}` is a foundational element of the sacrificial system. Priests perform this action to make atonement for sin ([[Leviticus 17:6]], [[Ezekiel 43:18]]).
* **Covenant Ratification:** The word is used in the dramatic sealing of the covenant at Sinai, where Moses **sprinkled** blood on both the altar and the people, uniting them with God ([[Exodus 24:6]], [[Exodus 24:8]]).
* **Purification and Consecration:** Beyond atonement, sprinkling is an act of purification. The failure to be sprinkled with the water of separation leads to being cut off [[Numbers 19:20]], while God's future act of sprinkling clean water promises a complete cleansing from all filthiness [[Ezekiel 36:25]].
* **Judgment and Symbolic Acts:** The act of sprinkling is not always positive. Moses **sprinkled** ashes to bring judgment upon Egypt [[Exodus 9:8]], and the scattering of idol dust symbolized their total desecration [[2 Chronicles 34:4]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2236}}` is a crucial verb in Old Testament worship and prophecy. It moves beyond a simple physical action to embody profound theological truths. Whether describing the application of sacrificial blood on an altar, the sealing of a divine covenant, or the promise of spiritual renewal, **zâraq** illustrates a divinely appointed means of mediation between God and humanity, signifying atonement, purification, and consecration.
TRV