a primitive root; to pour (intransitive); be poured.
Transliteration:yâçak
Pronunciation:yaw-sak'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew root `{{H3251}}` (יָסַךְ, yâçak) is identified as a primitive root, carrying the fundamental meaning of "to pour" or "to be poured." Its primary semantic range is narrow, focusing on the action of liquid flowing or being made to flow, or, by extension, material being cast or consolidated as if by pouring. The intransitive nature of the base definition indicates that the emphasis is on the action itself or the state of being poured, rather than the direct object receiving the poured substance. This root does not appear to have developed a broad range of metaphorical uses, typically adhering to its physical sense.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The occurrences of `{{H3251}}` are notably rare in the Hebrew Bible, appearing in only a few distinct contexts:
* **[[2 Samuel 5:8]] and [[1 Chronicles 11:6]] (Niphal):** In these parallel accounts describing David's capture of Jerusalem from the Jebusites, the verb appears in the Niphal stem (passive voice) as "yussak." The phrase in question, "whoever strikes the Jebusites, let him reach the water shaft (צִנּוֹר, tsinnor) and strike down the lame and the blind..." The precise meaning of `{{H3251}}` in this context is debated among scholars. Some interpretations suggest the "tsinnor" was a "gutter" or "water shaft" into which water "was poured" or flowed, perhaps referring to a strategic weakness in Jerusalem's defenses, such as Warren's Shaft. The verb here could imply the act of flowing into or through this conduit, or perhaps a more active sense of "being poured down" (i.e., thrown down) into it. Regardless of the exact interpretation, it points to a physical feature related to water management or access within the ancient city, critical to the military conquest.
* **[[Job 41:15]] (Hiphil):** This passage describes the fearsome Leviathan, a creature whose scales are depicted as an impenetrable armor. The Hiphil stem of `{{H3251}}` (yissak) is used here: "His rows of scales are his pride, shut up together as with a tight seal." The verb here means "to cause to be poured" or "to be cast/molten together." In this context, it describes the incredible tightness and solidity of Leviathan's scales, as if they have been fused or cast together into a single, unyielding mass. This is a powerful, figurative use of the root, emphasizing the creature's invulnerability and the divine craftsmanship behind its formidable design.
### Related Words & Concepts
While `{{H3251}}` is distinct, its core meaning of "pouring" connects it to other Hebrew verbs that convey similar actions:
* `{{H5258}}` (nāśak): This is a more common and versatile verb for "to pour out," frequently used in cultic contexts for libations or drink offerings (e.g., [[Genesis 35:14]], [[Exodus 30:9]]). It often implies an intentional act of pouring out a liquid.
* `{{H8210}}` (šāphak): Another very common verb meaning "to pour out" or "to shed," often used for shedding blood (e.g., [[Genesis 9:6]]), pouring out water (e.g., [[1 Samuel 7:6]]), or even expressing emotions like anger (e.g., [[Psalm 79:6]]).
* `{{H6143}}` (ʿārak): Less common for "pouring," but can refer to pouring out blood in sacrificial contexts.
The concept of "pouring" itself is fundamental to various biblical themes, including:
* **Ritual and Worship:** The pouring of libations and offerings.
* **Divine Judgment and Blessing:** The pouring out of wrath or blessings.
* **Creation and Design:** As seen in Job, the "casting" or "pouring" together of elements to form something solid and strong.
### Theological Significance
Given its rare and somewhat obscure occurrences, `{{H3251}}` does not carry a central theological weight in the biblical narrative. However, its specific uses contribute to broader theological themes:
* **Divine Power and Sovereignty in Creation:** The most pronounced theological significance of `{{H3251}}` emerges from its use in [[Job 41:15]]. The description of Leviathan's scales being "poured" or "cast together" speaks profoundly to the intricate and unassailable power of God's creative work. It highlights that even the most terrifying and formidable creatures are masterpieces of divine design, demonstrating God's absolute sovereignty over all creation. This reinforces the book of Job's overarching message about the incomprehensible wisdom and might of the Almighty, before whom human understanding and strength are utterly insignificant.
* **Providence in History:** The elusive references in [[2 Samuel 5:8]] and [[1 Chronicles 11:6]] tie `{{H3251}}` to a pivotal moment in Israelite history – the capture of Jerusalem. While the precise meaning remains debated, the word is embedded within a narrative of divine leading and military strategy that secured the capital for David's kingdom. Even if indirectly, the presence of `{{H3251}}` in these passages points to the minute details of historical events that unfold under God's providential hand.
### Summary
The Hebrew root `{{H3251}}` (יָסַךְ, yâçak) fundamentally signifies "to pour" or "to be poured," typically in an intransitive sense. Its limited occurrences in the biblical text provide specific, yet impactful, insights. In [[2 Samuel 5:8]] and [[1 Chronicles 11:6]], it appears in the Niphal, possibly referring to water flowing through a "water shaft" during the capture of Jerusalem, a detail of historical and strategic importance. More significantly, in [[Job 41:15]], the Hiphil form vividly describes Leviathan's scales as being "poured" or "cast together," portraying them as an impenetrable, divinely engineered armor. While not a frequent or overtly theological term, `{{H3251}}` contributes to the biblical narrative by precisely describing physical actions and states. Its most profound theological contribution lies in the book of Job, where it underscores the immense power, intricate design, and unassailable sovereignty of God as manifested in His creation.
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