The Hebrew word yâtsur, represented by H3338, is derived from the passive participle of יָצַר and refers to a structure, i.e. limb or part; member. This specific term is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible. Its singular usage provides a poignant and focused meaning related to the physical body under duress.
The sole appearance of H3338 is in the book of Job, where Job describes the devastating physical toll of his suffering. In his lament, he states, "Mine eye also is dim by reason of sorrow, and all my members are as a shadow" Job 17:7. Here, yâtsur is used to describe Job's limbs or body parts, which have become so wasted and insubstantial due to his grief that they resemble a mere shadow, highlighting the extreme nature of his affliction.
The context of H3338 in Job 17:7 is enriched by the surrounding words, which paint a fuller picture of physical and emotional decay:
- H3543 kâhâh (to be weak, i.e. (figuratively) to despond... to grow dull; darken, be dim, fail, faint, restrain): This word describes the state of Job's eyes, which have grown "dim" from sorrow. It is also used to describe Isaac's failing eyesight in old age Genesis 27:1 and the Lord's promise that his servant will not "fail" Isaiah 42:4.
- H3708 kaʻaç (vexation; anger, angry, grief, indignation, provocation, provoking, sore, sorrow, spite, wrath): This is the direct cause of Job's physical decline. The term signifies deep "sorrow" or "grief," which Ecclesiastes notes can be better than laughter for improving the heart Ecclesiastes 7:3.
- H5869 ʻayin (an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain... affliction, outward appearance): In Job's case, his "eye" is physically dimming. The term is used broadly for sight, as when man looks on the "outward appearance" but the Lord looks on the heart 1 Samuel 16:7.
- H6738 tsêl (shade, whether literal or figurative; defence, shade(-ow)): Job compares his members to a "shadow," signifying their lack of substance. This word is often used to convey frailty, as man "fleeth also as a shadow" Job 14:2, but it can also refer to divine "defence" or refuge Numbers 14:9.
The theological weight of H3338 is found in its powerful depiction of suffering and human frailty.
- The Physicality of Grief: The use of yâtsur in Job 17:7 directly links profound emotional "sorrow" H3708 to the decay of one's physical "members" H3338. It illustrates that spiritual and emotional anguish can have tangible, destructive consequences on the human body.
- Human Frailty and Transience: By describing his limbs as a "shadow" H6738, Job expresses a sense of being insubstantial and fleeting. This reflects a broader biblical theme of human ephemerality in the face of suffering, as seen in Job 14:2, where man's life is compared to a fleeting shadow.
- A Portrait of utter Desolation: The combination of dim eyes H3543, overwhelming sorrow H3708, and wasted members H3338 creates a comprehensive portrait of a person brought to the absolute limit of endurance, a key theme in the book of Job.
In summary, H3338 is a highly specific term whose single biblical appearance delivers a powerful message. As yâtsur, it defines the "members" of Job's body, which have wasted away under the weight of immense sorrow. Its context provides a stark illustration of the connection between emotional suffering and physical decay, serving as a potent symbol of human frailty and the depths of affliction described in the book of Job.
TRV