### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **yitshâr**, represented by `{{H3323}}`, means **oil**, particularly in the context of producing light or for anointing. Its base definition includes the phrase "anointed oil." It appears **23 times** across **23 unique verses**, often symbolizing divine blessing and sustenance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H3323}}` is consistently used to represent agricultural prosperity given by the LORD. It frequently appears as part of a trio of essential products—corn, wine, and **oil**—that signify God's provision for His people [[Deuteronomy 11:14]]. The abundance of these resources is a sign of covenant blessing [[Deuteronomy 7:13]], while their scarcity is a mark of judgment and mourning ([[Joel 1:10]], [[Haggai 1:11]]). Furthermore, **oil** was a required part of the tithes and firstfruit offerings brought to the priests and Levites [[Numbers 18:12]]. Figuratively, the word is used to describe the "two **anointed** ones" who stand by the Lord of the whole earth [[Zechariah 4:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the significance of oil:
* `{{H8492}}` **tîyrôwsh** (wine): Defined as must or fresh grape-juice, this word is almost always paired with **oil** to represent the fullness of the harvest's blessing [[Joel 2:24]].
* `{{H1715}}` **dâgân** (corn): Meaning grain or wheat, this term completes the trio of staple provisions promised by God. The gathering of **corn**, wine, and oil is a direct result of obedience and divine favor [[Deuteronomy 11:14]].
* `{{H2132}}` **zayith** (olive): As the source of the oil, this word for the olive tree, branch, or berry is intrinsically linked to `{{H3323}}`. Scripture speaks of a land of **oil olive** as a place of great abundance [[2 Kings 18:32]].
* `{{H4643}}` **maʻăsêr** (tithe): This word for a tenth part is crucial, as the **tithe** of corn, wine, and **oil** was brought to the treasuries to support the Levites and the work of the house of God [[Nehemiah 13:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3323}}` is demonstrated through its consistent usage in key themes:
* **Covenant Provision:** The presence of **oil**, alongside corn and wine, serves as a tangible sign of the LORD's faithfulness to His covenant promises. He sends these resources to satisfy His people and remove their reproach [[Joel 2:19]].
* **Worship and Sustenance:** Bringing the best of the **oil** as firstfruits and tithes was an act of worship, acknowledging God as the ultimate provider and sustaining the priesthood and temple service ([[Numbers 18:12]], [[Nehemiah 10:39]]).
* **Symbol of Anointing:** Beyond its agricultural significance, **yitshâr** points to a divine appointment. Its use to describe the "anointed ones" in [[Zechariah 4:14]] elevates the word from a mere commodity to a symbol of being chosen and empowered for God's service.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3323}}` is a word rich with meaning, extending far beyond its simple definition of **oil**. It is a cornerstone of understanding God's covenant blessings, a vital element in the worship and economy of Israel, and a powerful metaphor for those anointed for a divine purpose. From the field to the temple, **yitshâr** illustrates God's provision for both the physical and spiritual needs of His people.
TRV