### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nᵉtsîyb**, represented by `{{H5333}}`, is derived from the root `{{H5324}}` and describes **something stationary**. It appears **12 times** across **11 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning is context-dependent, referring to a **garrison**, an **officer**, or a **pillar**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H5333}}` is primarily used in a military context to denote a **garrison** or military post. This is seen when Jonathan smote the Philistine **garrison** in Geba [[1 Samuel 13:3]] and when David established his authority by placing **garrisons** in Syria of Damascus [[2 Samuel 8:6]] and throughout Edom [[2 Samuel 8:14]]. In a unique and memorable instance, the word signifies a statue or **pillar**, describing Lot's wife who became a **pillar** of salt [[Genesis 19:26]]. It is also used to refer to a civil authority, as Solomon appointed Geber as the only **officer** in the country of Gilead [[1 Kings 4:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which `{{H5333}}` is used:
* `{{H5324}}` **nâtsab** (to station, in various applications): As the root verb, it establishes the core idea of setting something up to be stationary or established, which is the essence of a pillar, officer, or garrison. It is used to describe a ladder **set up** on the earth [[Genesis 28:12]].
* `{{H6430}}` **Pᵉlishtîy** (a Pelishtite or inhabitant of Pelesheth; Philistine): The **garrisons** of the Philistines were key strategic points of conflict during the reigns of Saul and David, making this term essential to understanding the military use of `{{H5333}}` [[1 Samuel 10:5]].
* `{{H123}}` **ʼĔdôm** (Edom, the elder twin-brother of Jacob; hence the region (Idumaea) occupied by him): David's act of placing **garrisons** in Edom demonstrates the word's connection to military subjugation and the establishment of control over a conquered territory [[2 Samuel 8:14]].
* `{{H4417}}` **melach** (properly, powder, i.e. (specifically) salt): This word is intrinsically linked to the most distinct use of `{{H5333}}`, defining the substance of the **pillar** that Lot's wife became as a consequence of her actions [[Genesis 19:26]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H5333}}` is found in its representation of established presence and authority.
* **Markers of Sovereignty and Control:** As **garrisons**, these stationary posts signify military conquest and the establishment of dominion over foreign lands, such as when David put **garrisons** in Syria and Edom ([[2 Samuel 8:6]], [[1 Chronicles 18:13]]).
* **Monuments of Divine Judgment:** The transformation of Lot's wife into a **pillar** of salt serves as a permanent, stationary warning against disobedience and looking back from God's deliverance [[Genesis 19:26]].
* **Administrative Authority:** The term is also used for an **officer** under King Solomon, indicating a structured and established civil government in a specific territory [[1 Kings 4:19]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5333}}` is a versatile word whose meaning is fixed by its context. Whether describing a military garrison, a civil officer, or a cautionary pillar, it consistently conveys the idea of something stationary and established. The word illustrates how physical posts, administrative roles, and even monuments of judgment serve to establish and signify a fixed authority.
TRV