### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word נִיצוֹץ (nîytsôwts), Strong's H5213, is derived from the root נָצַץ (nâtsats, `{{H5340}}`), which means "to sparkle, glitter, or shine." Consequently, the core meaning of נִיצוֹץ is "a spark." This refers to a small, glowing particle, typically one that is emitted from a burning substance or produced by friction or impact, such as striking flint. Its semantic range is quite narrow, primarily encompassing this literal sense of a brief, intense point of light and heat, often associated with fire and its destructive potential.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word נִיצוֹץ (nîytsôwts, `{{H5213}}`) appears only once in the entire Hebrew Bible, specifically in the book of Isaiah. Its singular occurrence is found in [[Isaiah 1:31]]: "And the strong shall be as tinder, and his work as a spark; and they shall both burn together, and none shall quench them."
In this context, the prophet Isaiah employs a vivid simile to describe the judgment awaiting the rebellious and unrighteous. The "strong" (הֶחָסֹן, hekhasôn) are likened to "tinder" (נְעֹרֶת, ne'oret, `{{H5282}}`), a highly flammable material. Their "work" (פֹּעַל, po'al, `{{H6467}}`), representing their actions, achievements, or even their very being, is compared to a "spark" (נִיצוֹץ). The imagery suggests that the spark, though small, is the igniting agent that sets the tinder ablaze. The result is a mutual consumption, an unquenchable fire that utterly destroys both the strong and their deeds. The spark, in this prophetic utterance, is not merely a source of light but a catalyst for destruction, emphasizing the swift and inevitable nature of divine retribution.
### Related Words & Concepts
Given its root, נִיצוֹץ (nîytsôwts, `{{H5213}}`) is directly related to:
* נָצַץ (nâtsats, `{{H5340}}`): The verbal root meaning "to sparkle, glitter, shine." This connection highlights the luminous, though fleeting, quality inherent in a spark.
Other related concepts and words pertaining to fire and light in the Hebrew Bible include:
* אֵשׁ ('esh, `{{H784}}`): The general term for "fire," often associated with divine presence, purification, and judgment.
* אוֹר ('or, `{{H216}}`): "Light," broadly encompassing creation, revelation, and divine guidance.
* לֶהָבָה (lehavah, `{{H3940}}`): "Flame" or "blazing fire," often depicting intense heat or passion.
* פֶּחָם (pecham, `{{H6507}}`): "Charcoal" or "burning coal," from which sparks often emanate.
The concept of a "spark" also ties into broader themes such as:
* **Transience:** A spark is momentary, fleeting, and quickly consumed.
* **Destruction/Judgment:** As seen in Isaiah, a spark can ignite a devastating fire.
* **Divine Wrath:** Often depicted as a consuming fire.
* **Futility:** The idea that human endeavors, if not aligned with God, can be self-destructive.
### Theological Significance
The singular appearance of נִיצוֹץ (nîytsôwts, `{{H5213}}`) in [[Isaiah 1:31]] imbues it with significant theological weight, primarily in the context of divine judgment.
1. **Catalyst for Divine Judgment:** The "spark" represents the seemingly small or insignificant element that ignites the full force of God's wrath against rebellion. It underscores the principle that even the works of the powerful, if unrighteous, are not enduring but rather become the very fuel for their own destruction.
2. **Futility of Human Autonomy:** By portraying the "work" of the strong as a spark, Isaiah highlights the ultimate futility and self-destructive nature of human endeavors carried out in defiance of God. These works, rather than bringing glory or security, become the means by which the wicked are consumed.
3. **Unquenchable Nature of God's Justice:** The phrase "none shall quench them" emphasizes the absolute sovereignty and inevitability of God's judgment. Once the "spark" ignites the "tinder," the resulting fire is beyond human control or mitigation.
4. **Contrast with Divine Light:** While a spark is a small, destructive flash, it stands in stark contrast to the divine light (אוֹר, `{{H216}}`) that brings life, revelation, and salvation. This contrast reinforces the dual nature of God's presence: a consuming fire for the wicked and a guiding light for the righteous. The spark serves as a potent warning against spiritual complacency and rebellion.
### Summary
The Hebrew word נִיצוֹץ (nîytsôwts, `{{H5213}}`) signifies a "spark," deriving from the root "nâtsats" (`{{H5340}}`) meaning "to sparkle." Despite its solitary occurrence in the Hebrew Bible in [[Isaiah 1:31]], its theological import is profound. In this passage, the "spark" symbolizes the catalytic agent for divine judgment, igniting an unquenchable fire that consumes both the "strong" and their unrighteous "work." This imagery underscores the transience and destructive futility of human endeavors when they stand in opposition to God. The "spark" thus represents a small yet potent force that precipitates a larger, uncontrollable conflagration, emphasizing God's absolute sovereignty in executing judgment and serving as a stark warning of inevitable divine retribution for rebellion.
TRV