from נָצַב; a fixed spot; figuratively, an office, a military post; garrison, station, place where...stood.
Transliteration:matstsâb
Pronunciation:mats-tsawb'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word מַצָּב (matstsâb, `{{H4673}}`) is derived from the verbal root נָצַב (natsab, `{{H5324}}`), which conveys the sense of "to stand," "to set," or "to place." This etymological connection provides the foundational meaning for *matstsâb* as "a fixed spot" or "a standing place." Its semantic range extends from this literal sense to more figurative and specialized applications. Primarily, it denotes a "military post," "garrison," or "outpost," emphasizing a strategically fixed position. In a broader sense, it can refer to an "encampment" or "station." While the base definition also includes "office," this particular nuance is less directly attested in its biblical occurrences, though it conceptually aligns with a fixed position of authority. The unifying thread across its various uses is the idea of stability, establishment, or a designated, unmoving location.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word מַצָּב (matstsâb) appears predominantly in historical and prophetic books, often in military contexts.
In the books of Samuel, *matstsâb* frequently designates a Philistine "garrison" or "outpost," highlighting the strategic military presence of Israel's adversaries. For instance, [[1 Samuel 13:23]] describes the Philistine *matstsâb* at the pass of Michmash, a critical choke point. Jonathan's daring raid against this *matstsâb* is a central narrative in [[1 Samuel 14:1]] through [[1 Samuel 14:16]], where the word is used repeatedly to emphasize the fortified and fixed nature of the enemy position. Similarly, [[2 Samuel 23:14]] and its parallel [[1 Chronicles 11:16]] mention the Philistine *matstsâb* in Bethlehem, underscoring its role as a point of control or occupation.
In the prophetic literature, *matstsâb* takes on slightly different but related connotations. In [[Isaiah 29:3]], the term is used in the context of divine judgment against Jerusalem: "I will encamp against you with *matstsâb* (siege-mounds/garrison)." Here, it refers to the fixed siege-works or the besieging forces' established positions, emphasizing the unyielding nature of the divine assault. [[Nahum 3:17]] uses *matstsâb* to describe the "place" or "station" where Assyrian captains encamp, but contrasts their temporary presence with their ultimate disappearance, illustrating the fleeting nature of their power. Across these contexts, *matstsâb* consistently points to a fixed or established position, whether for military occupation, strategic defense, or temporary encampment.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary lexical relationship for מַצָּב (matstsâb, `{{H4673}}`) is its direct derivation from the root נָצַב (natsab, `{{H5324}}`), "to stand, to set, to be appointed." This root is foundational to understanding the concept of fixedness inherent in *matstsâb*. Other derivatives from this root include:
* מַצֵּבָה (matstsebah, `{{H4672}}`): "pillar" or "standing stone," which denotes a fixed, erected monument.
* נְצִיב (netsiyb, `{{H5325}}`): This word is particularly close in meaning to *matstsâb*, also referring to a "garrison" (e.g., [[1 Samuel 10:5]]) or a "prefect/governor" (e.g., [[1 Kings 4:19]]), again emphasizing a fixed position, whether military or administrative.
Conceptually, *matstsâb* relates to ideas of:
* **Stability and Permanence:** The core idea of being fixed or established.
* **Strategic Positioning:** Especially in military contexts, denoting an outpost or fortified location.
* **Control and Authority:** Implied in the military garrison sense, where a fixed post exerts control over an area.
* **Boundaries and Encampments:** A designated place where one stands or encamps.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of מַצָּב (matstsâb) often emerges from its context within narratives of conflict, divine judgment, and human reliance.
1. **Divine Sovereignty Over Human Power:** In the accounts of Israel's conflict with the Philistines (e.g., 1 Samuel), the formidable Philistine *matstsâb* represents a significant human obstacle. However, it is not through Israel's military might but through divine intervention (e.g., the panic sent by God in [[1 Samuel 14:15]]) that these fixed strongholds are overcome. This underscores God's ultimate sovereignty over human military strength and the futility of relying solely on earthly power.
2. **Instrument of Divine Judgment:** In prophetic texts like [[Isaiah 29:3]], God declares His intention to bring a *matstsâb* (siege-mound/garrison) against Jerusalem. Here, the fixed military position becomes an instrument of God's righteous judgment against His rebellious people. It signifies the certainty and unyielding nature of God's decree, where even the enemy's fixed positions serve His overarching purpose.
3. **The Transience of Earthly Security:** The reference in [[Nahum 3:17]] to the Assyrian captains' *matstsâb* (station) being temporary and ultimately vanishing highlights the impermanence of human power and security. Even seemingly fixed or established positions of earthly might are ultimately subject to the divine will and can be swept away, serving as a reminder that true security rests in God alone.
### Summary
The Hebrew word מַצָּב (matstsâb, `{{H4673}}`), derived from the root נָצָב (natsab, `{{H5324}}`) meaning "to stand" or "to be fixed," fundamentally denotes a "fixed spot" or "standing place." Its most common biblical application is to a "military post," "garrison," or "outpost," as seen extensively in the books of Samuel describing Philistine strongholds (e.g., [[1 Samuel 13:23]]). It can also refer to a "siege-mound" or "encampment," as in God's judgment against Jerusalem in [[Isaiah 29:3]], or a temporary "station" as depicted in [[Nahum 3:17]]. Theologically, *matstsâb* serves to illustrate God's supreme sovereignty over human endeavors, revealing how even formidable, fixed positions of earthly power are subject to His will. It underscores the necessity of divine intervention for overcoming human obstacles and highlights the ultimate transience of all human security in contrast to the eternal steadfastness of God.
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