passive participle of יָצַר; structure, i.e. limb or part; member.ql
Transliteration:yâtsur
Pronunciation:yaw-tsoor'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word H3338 (yâtsur) functions as a passive participle derived from the root verb H3335 (yatsar), which signifies "to form, fashion, mold, or create." As a passive participle, H3338 therefore denotes "that which has been formed" or "that which has been fashioned." Its base definition, "structure, i.e., limb or part; member," specifically points to a component of a larger, intricately formed entity, particularly the human body. The emphasis is not merely on a generic "part," but on a part that has undergone a deliberate process of shaping or crafting, reflecting the active work of a "former" or "creator." This etymological link to H3335 imbues H3338 with a sense of intentional design and composition.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term H3338 appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, found in the book of Job:
* **[[Job 17:7]]**: "My eye also is dim by reason of sorrow, and all my members are as a shadow."
In this sole occurrence, H3338 is translated as "members" (KJV, ESV, NASB). The context is Job's profound lament over his suffering and physical deterioration. He describes his eyes as dim from grief and his "members" (yâtsur) as insubstantial, like a shadow. This imagery conveys a sense of extreme weakness, emaciation, and the fading of his physical being. The choice of H3338 here is poignant; it refers to the very parts of his body that were once robust and fully "formed," now reduced to a mere semblance of their former selves. The use of a word emphasizing divine formation underscores the tragic state of Job's body, which, though divinely crafted, is now succumbing to the ravages of sorrow and illness.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most significant related word is the root verb H3335 (yatsar), from which H3338 is derived. H3335 is a foundational term in biblical theology, frequently used to describe God's creative activity, particularly His formation of humanity from the dust of the ground ([[Genesis 2:7]]). It also describes the potter's work with clay ([[Isaiah 64:8]]), highlighting the skill, intention, and sovereignty of the "former." Furthermore, H3335 is used to speak of God's intimate knowledge and formation of individuals in the womb ([[Psalm 139:16]]).
While other Hebrew words describe specific body parts (e.g., H3027 yad - hand, H7272 regel - foot, H3824 lev - heart), H3338 carries the unique nuance of being a *formed* part. It emphasizes the structural integrity and design inherent in these components. The concept of the human body as a divinely "formed" entity also connects to broader themes of creation, the imago Dei, and the intricate design evident in all of God's works.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of H3338 lies primarily in its direct connection to H3335, the verb for divine formation. Even though H3338 itself refers to the physical members of a human body, its etymology elevates these "parts" beyond mere biological components to divinely crafted structures.
1. **Divine Craftsmanship of Humanity**: The very existence of H3338 implies that every "member" of the human body is not accidental but purposefully formed. This reinforces the biblical teaching that humanity is the product of God's intentional and skillful handiwork, reflecting His wisdom and design.
2. **The Fragility of the Formed Body**: In [[Job 17:7]], the divinely "formed members" are described as "a shadow." This stark image highlights the vulnerability of the physical body to decay, suffering, and death in a fallen world. It underscores the contrast between the perfect, original creation and the present reality of human frailty. Even that which God has perfectly fashioned can become diminished.
3. **Anthropological Insight**: H3338 subtly contributes to biblical anthropology by emphasizing the integrated and designed nature of the human being. Each "member" plays a role within the larger, divinely constituted whole. Job's lament thus becomes a cry from a body whose intrinsic, God-given structure is being undermined by affliction.
### Summary
H3338 (yâtsur) is a singular and evocative Hebrew term, functioning as a passive participle of H3335 (yatsar), meaning "to form." It signifies "that which has been formed" and specifically refers to a "limb" or "member" of the body. Its sole biblical occurrence in [[Job 17:7]] depicts Job's "members" as "a shadow," powerfully illustrating the physical deterioration and suffering of a body once robustly formed. The theological weight of H3338 derives from its root, underscoring the divine craftsmanship inherent in every part of the human body. It serves as a poignant reminder of God's intentional design in creation, even as it highlights the fragility of that divinely formed structure in the face of suffering.
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