a primitive root; to gleam from afar, i.e. to be conspicuous as a signal; or rather perhaps a denominative from נֵס (and identical with נָסַס, through the idea of a flag as fluttering in the wind); to raise a beacon; lift up as an ensign.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nâçaç**, represented by `{{H5264}}`, is a primitive root meaning to gleam from afar or be conspicuous as a signal. Its definition also suggests the action of raising a beacon or lifting up an ensign, like a flag fluttering in the wind. It appears **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible, making its single usage particularly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H5264}}` is in [[Zechariah 9:16]], where it describes the glorious destiny of God's people. In a prophecy of future deliverance, the text states they will be like "the stones of a crown, **lifted up as an ensign** upon his land." In this context, the word portrays God's saved people being made visible and prominent. They are not only rescued but are elevated to become a shining beacon that testifies to the salvation of the LORD their God.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context in [[Zechariah 9:16]] help clarify its meaning:
* `{{H3467}}` **yâshaʻ** (to free or succor): The act of being "lifted up as an ensign" is the direct result of God's decision to **save** His people, highlighting that their prominence is a display of His redemptive power [[Zechariah 9:16]].
* `{{H5145}}` **nezer** (consecration, crown): The people are compared to stones of a **crown**, a term for something set apart. This links their elevated status directly to their value and consecration to God [[Zechariah 9:16]].
* `{{H5971}}` **ʻam** (a people): This specifies that it is God's **people**, as a collective group, who are made into a conspicuous signal, emphasizing their corporate identity and relationship with Him [[Zechariah 9:16]].
* `{{H6629}}` **tsôʼn** (a flock): The people are described as the **flock** of God. This pastoral imagery, combined with being lifted as an ensign, shows that God both tenderly cares for and victoriously displays His people [[Zechariah 9:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5264}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful use.
* **Divine Vindication:** The word illustrates that God's salvation is not a secret event. By lifting His people "as an ensign," He publicly vindicates them and displays His faithfulness for all to see upon His land `{{H127}}`.
* **The Exalted Status of the Redeemed:** The imagery of being stones `{{H68}}` of a crown `{{H5145}}` that are "lifted up" `{{H5264}}` reveals the immense value God places on His people. They are His treasures, elevated to a position of honor.
* **A Living Testimony:** The people themselves become the signal. Their deliverance "in that day" `{{H3117}}` makes them a living beacon, testifying to the power and saving grace of the LORD `{{H3068}}` their God `{{H430}}` [[Zechariah 9:16]].
### Summary
In summary, though appearing only once, `{{H5264}}` provides a rich and vivid theological concept. It moves beyond a simple action to signify a divine declaration. In its biblical context, **nâçaç** powerfully illustrates that when God saves His people, He not only delivers them but also elevates them to be a glorious and conspicuous sign of His victory and their preciousness to Him.
TRV