passive participle of נָצַב; fixed, i.e. a handle; haft.
Transliteration:nitstsâb
Pronunciation:nits-twawb'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term nitstsâb (`{{H5325}}`) is a passive participle derived from the verb nātsav (`{{H5324}}`), which fundamentally means "to stand," "to be set," "to be fixed," or "to be appointed." As a passive participle, nitstsâb therefore denotes "that which has been stood," "that which has been set," or "that which is fixed." Its core meaning revolves around the concept of stability, immovability, and being firmly in place. The specific semantic range, as indicated by its usage, narrows to a concrete application: "fixed, i.e., a handle; haft." This refers to the part of an implement or weapon that is securely attached and serves as a grip, highlighting an object's integral and stable component.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word nitstsâb (`{{H5325}}`) appears only once in the entire Hebrew Bible, making its single context crucial for understanding its precise meaning and narrative function.
* **Judges 3:22:** "And the hilt also went in after the blade, and the fat closed upon the blade, for he did not draw the dagger out of his belly; and it came out behind." ([[Judges 3:22]])
* In this vivid and graphic account, nitstsâb refers to the "hilt" or "haft" of the dagger used by Ehud to assassinate Eglon, the king of Moab. The detail that the "hilt also went in after the blade" emphasizes the depth and completeness of the penetration. The word here clearly designates the handle of the weapon, the part that is fixed to the blade and provides the grip for the user. Its "fixed" nature is essential for the weapon's effective use, allowing Ehud to deliver a decisive and fatal blow. The gruesome detail underscores the finality of the act and the thoroughness of Ehud's execution of divine judgment.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding nitstsâb (`{{H5325}}`) is enhanced by examining its linguistic root and related semantic fields:
* **nātsav (`{{H5324}}`):** This is the foundational verb from which nitstsâb is derived. Nātsav carries the broad meaning of "to stand," "to take one's stand," "to be stationed," or "to be fixed." Examples include standing before God ([[Genesis 18:22]]), standing in battle formation ([[1 Samuel 17:16]]), or being appointed to a position ([[Exodus 9:11]]). The connection highlights the inherent stability and rootedness implied by nitstsâb.
* **yatsav (`{{H3320}}`):** While a distinct root, yatsav shares a semantic overlap with nātsav, often meaning "to take one's stand" or "to present oneself," frequently in a context of firmness or resolve. This reinforces the broader concept of being firmly in place.
* **Tools and Implements:** The specific application of nitstsâb to a "haft" or "handle" connects it to the practical realm of human craftsmanship and utility. Handles are fundamental components of tools and weapons, designed to provide control and leverage. Their "fixed" nature is paramount for the efficacy and safety of the implement.
### Theological Significance
Despite its single, concrete occurrence, nitstsâb (`{{H5325}}`) carries subtle theological implications when viewed within its narrative context and the broader biblical themes.
* **Divine Judgment and Sovereignty:** The account in [[Judges 3]] is a powerful narrative of God's deliverance of Israel from oppression through a divinely appointed judge. Ehud's act, facilitated by the very "hilt" of his dagger, is an execution of God's judgment upon Eglon. The detail that the entire weapon, including its handle, disappeared into Eglon's body can be seen as a stark symbol of the completeness and irrevocability of divine judgment when it is enacted. The "fixed" nature of the handle allowed for the decisive blow, reflecting the firm and unwavering nature of God's decrees.
* **Human Instrumentality in God's Plan:** The word underscores the physical means through which God's will is sometimes accomplished. While the ultimate agent is God, human instruments like Ehud, and even the tools they wield, become crucial in the unfolding of divine purposes. The stability provided by the "haft" enabled Ehud to perform his mission effectively, illustrating how even seemingly small, stable components can be vital in the larger narrative of God working through human agents.
* **Biblical Realism and Detail:** The Bible's inclusion of such a specific and graphic detail as the "hilt" entering Eglon's body demonstrates the sacred text's commitment to realistic, impactful, and often visceral storytelling. This precision serves to underscore the historical reality and profound impact of the events described, thereby reinforcing the truthfulness and authority of the biblical narrative.
### Summary
The Hebrew word nitstsâb (`{{H5325}}`), a passive participle of nātsav (`{{H5324}}`), signifies "that which is fixed" or "set in place." Its singular occurrence in [[Judges 3:22]] specifically refers to the "hilt" or "haft" of a dagger, highlighting a component that is firmly attached and provides a stable grip. This usage emphasizes the crucial role of a fixed, stable part in the functionality of an implement. Theologically, nitstsâb contributes to the profound narrative of divine judgment and deliverance in the book of Judges, underscoring the completeness of God's action through human instrumentality and the Bible's commitment to vivid, impactful detail in its historical accounts. Though a seemingly minor descriptive term, nitstsâb plays its part in portraying the decisive nature of God's sovereign hand.
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