a primitive root; to sprinkle (fluid or solid particles); be here and there, scatter, sprinkle, strew.
Transliteration:zâraq
Pronunciation:zaw-rak'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew verb זָרַק (zâraq), `{{H2236}}`, is a primitive root carrying the fundamental meaning of "to sprinkle" or "to scatter." This action implies a dissemination of particles, whether liquid (like blood or water) or solid (like ashes or dust), over a surface or into the air. The semantic range extends from a precise, ritualistic application to a more general, widespread dispersion. It denotes an act of casting or throwing in a manner that results in scattered distribution rather than a concentrated placement. The nuance often depends heavily on the object being scattered and the context of the action, ranging from intentional, controlled application to a more chaotic or forceful dispersal.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb זָרַק (zâraq) appears frequently in the Old Testament, particularly in cultic contexts related to the sacrificial system. Its most prominent usage is in the sprinkling of blood, a central act in atonement and consecration rites. For instance, in Leviticus, the priest is commanded to *sprinkle* the blood of the sin offering against the altar ([[Leviticus 4:6]], [[Leviticus 4:17]]). This act was not merely disposal but a ritual application, signifying the life of the sacrifice covering or consecrating. Similarly, the blood of the peace offering was *sprinkled* on the altar ([[Leviticus 3:2]]). The repeated use of זָרַק for blood highlights its importance in mediating purity and reconciliation.
Beyond blood, זָרַק is also used for scattering other substances. In the purification ritual for a leper, the priest *sprinkles* the water of purification seven times on the one to be cleansed ([[Leviticus 14:7]]). Ashes, too, are *scattered* or *sprinkled*, as seen when Moses and Aaron *sprinkle* soot from a furnace towards heaven, causing boils upon man and beast ([[Exodus 9:8]], [[Exodus 9:10]]). This demonstrates the verb's application to both sacred and punitive acts, indicating a divinely orchestrated dispersion.
In a more general sense, זָרַק can describe the scattering of dust or debris, indicating desolation or judgment. Job laments how God has *cast* him into the mire ([[Job 30:19]]), and Ezekiel describes the scattering of dust upon the heads of those mourning the fall of Tyre ([[Ezekiel 27:30]]). These instances highlight the verb's capacity to convey a sense of dispersion, often with negative or lamentable connotations when applied to human circumstances or physical objects in a destructive manner.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several Hebrew terms share conceptual overlap with זָרַק (zâraq), though each carries distinct nuances.
* **נָזָה (nāzâ)**, `{{H5137}}`: While also translated as "to sprinkle," נָזָה often implies a more controlled, deliberate sprinkling, particularly of blood or water for purification, often with a finger or hyssop. It can denote a dripping or spurting, whereas זָרַק suggests a broader, more sweeping action.
* **פּוּץ (pûṣ)**, `{{H6327}}`: Means "to scatter" or "to disperse," often referring to people or groups. It emphasizes the breaking up of a unified entity into separate parts, a broader dispersion than the more localized action of זָרַק.
* **פָּזַר (pāzar)**, `{{H6504}}`: Similar to פּוּץ, meaning "to scatter" or "to squander," often in the context of wealth or resources, or the scattering of a population.
* **שָׁפַךְ (shāphakh)**, `{{H8210}}`: "To pour out," typically a continuous flow rather than a scattered distribution. While blood is poured out, זָרַק describes the subsequent act of sprinkling that poured blood.
The concepts of "purity," "atonement," and "consecration" are intrinsically linked to זָרַק through its frequent use in ritual contexts. The sprinkling of blood was a visual and tactile representation of expiation and the cleansing of sin, making the action of זָרַק integral to understanding the sacrificial system.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of זָרַק (zâraq) is profound, particularly in its association with the sacrificial system and atonement. The repeated command to *sprinkle* blood on the altar or before the veil underscores the sacredness of blood as the life-force ([[Leviticus 17:11]]) and its indispensable role in making propitiation for sin. This ritual act was not merely symbolic; it was the divinely ordained means by which defilement was addressed and communion with a holy God was maintained. The act of scattering, rather than simply pouring, suggests a pervasive application, covering or permeating the sacred space or object, thereby effecting ritual purity and reconciliation.
The sprinkling of blood prefigures the ultimate sacrifice of Christ. The New Testament speaks of being "sprinkled" with the blood of Jesus, which "purifies our consciences from dead works to serve the living God" ([[Hebrews 9:13-14]], [[Hebrews 12:24]]). This connection highlights a continuity in God's redemptive plan, where the Old Covenant rituals point to the efficacy of Christ's shed blood for cleansing and new covenant access to God. The scattering of ashes in judgment (e.g., [[Exodus 9:8]]) also demonstrates God's sovereign power to bring about consequences, whether for purification or punishment, through dispersed elements. Thus, זָרַק encapsulates both the divine provision for cleansing and the divine execution of justice.
### Summary
The Hebrew verb זָרַק (zâraq), `{{H2236}}`, fundamentally means "to sprinkle" or "to scatter" fluid or solid particles. Its primary biblical usage is found in the cultic rituals of the Old Testament, where it describes the sacred act of *sprinkling* blood for atonement and consecration ([[Leviticus 4:6]], [[Leviticus 17:11]]). It also encompasses the *scattering* of other substances like water for purification ([[Leviticus 14:7]]) or ashes for judgment ([[Exodus 9:8]]). While related to other verbs of scattering or pouring, זָרַק uniquely conveys a dispersed application, often for ritual efficacy. Theologically, it is central to understanding the Old Testament sacrificial system's provision for cleansing and foreshadows the ultimate, purifying work of Christ's blood ([[Hebrews 12:24]]). It signifies both divine provision for holiness and divine judgment, through the scattering of elements.
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