### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nitstsâb**, represented by `{{H5325}}`, refers to a **haft** or handle. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. The term is derived from a root meaning "fixed," describing the part of a tool or weapon that is set in place for gripping.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The singular use of `{{H5325}}` occurs in the graphic account of Ehud assassinating King Eglon. In this narrative, the **haft** of the dagger also went into Eglon's belly after the blade, because the fat closed upon it, preventing Ehud from drawing the weapon back out [[Judges 3:22]]. This vivid detail emphasizes the totality of the fatal blow.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words within its only context illuminate the meaning of `{{H5325}}`:
* `{{H2719}}` **chereb** (axe, dagger, knife, mattock, sword, tool): This is the weapon to which the **haft** is attached. In its sole appearance with `{{H5325}}`, it is a **dagger** [[Judges 3:22]]. The word is used throughout scripture to represent instruments of war [[1 Samuel 17:45]] and divine judgment [[Zechariah 13:7]].
* `{{H3851}}` **lahab** (blade, bright, flame, glittering): This word describes the cutting part of the weapon. It is used to describe a polished weapon **blade** [[Nahum 3:3]] and figuratively as a **flame** of divine, devouring fire [[Isaiah 66:15]].
* `{{H990}}` **beṭen** (belly, body, as they be born, within, womb): This is the target of the weapon. While it denotes Eglon's **belly** in this passage [[Judges 3:22]], it is more frequently used to refer to the womb, the source of life and divine formation ([[Jeremiah 1:5]], [[Psalms 139:13]]).
### Theological Significance
While `{{H5325}}` appears only once in a descriptive, physical account, its context points toward themes of consequence and finality.
* **Irrevocable Action:** The description of the **haft** entering the belly so that the dagger `{{H2719}}` could not be drawn out [[Judges 3:22]] illustrates an irreversible and total act. The weapon is entirely consumed by its target, signifying an action with absolute finality.
* **The Physicality of Judgment:** The passage's graphic detail, including the **haft**, the fat `{{H2459}}`, and the blade `{{H3851}}`, grounds the concept of judgment in a stark physical reality. The word for the weapon, **chereb** `{{H2719}}`, is elsewhere used for God's sword of judgment [[Isaiah 27:1]], and this passage provides a visceral image of what such an act entails.
* **Descriptive Specificity:** The inclusion of `{{H5325}}` serves to emphasize the depth of the wound and the force of the blow. It is a detail that highlights not just the act itself, but the completeness of the weapon's submersion, leaving no part visible or retrievable.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5325}}` is a highly specific term for a **haft** or handle, used only once in scripture. Its significance comes not from broad theological application, but from its powerful role in a single, memorable narrative. By describing the **haft** also entering the body, the text underscores the force and finality of the fatal blow in [[Judges 3:22]]. It serves as a prime example of how a simple, concrete noun can contribute to the vividness and impact of a biblical account, adding a layer of physical detail that makes the event unforgettable.
TRV