a primitive root; properly, to smear over (with oil), i.e. anoint; anoint (self), [idiom] at all.
Transliteration:çûwk
Pronunciation:sook
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew root çûwk (`{{H5480}}`) is a primitive verb primarily signifying the action of "to smear" or "to rub over." In its most common biblical usage, this action specifically refers to "anointing," almost exclusively with oil. Unlike other terms for anointing, çûwk typically describes a personal act of applying oil for hygiene, beautification, or general well-being. It conveys the sense of thoroughly covering or rubbing a surface, usually the skin, with a substance. The definition also notes an idiomatic use, "at all," which appears in negative constructions to emphasize the complete absence of the action.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The occurrences of çûwk (`{{H5480}}`) in the Old Testament illuminate its practical and social dimensions:
* **Personal Preparation/Beautification:** In [[Ruth 3:3]], Naomi instructs Ruth to "anoint yourself" (וְסַכְתְּ) and put on her best clothes before approaching Boaz. This highlights the use of oil as part of personal grooming and preparation for a significant social encounter.
* **Sign of Normalcy After Mourning:** Following the death of his child, David "anointed himself" (וַיָּסֶךְ) and changed his clothes, signifying a return from the public display of grief to normal life ([[2 Samuel 12:20]]). This contrasts with the customary practice of abstaining from anointing during mourning periods.
* **Absence During Fasting/Mourning:** Daniel states, "I did not anoint myself at all" (וְסוֹךְ לֹא סַכְתִּי) during his three weeks of mourning and fasting ([[Daniel 10:3]]). Here, the absence of anointing is a clear indicator of his deep affliction and spiritual devotion, emphasizing the full extent of his self-denial. This instance also exemplifies the idiomatic use of "at all" (לֹא סַכְתִּי).
* **Metaphorical Divine Care:** In a powerful metaphorical passage, God recounts His tender care for Israel, stating, "I anointed you with oil" (וָאֲסֻכֵךְ בַּשָּׁמֶן) after washing her clean ([[Ezekiel 16:9]]). This depicts God's act of beautification and preparation for Israel, likening it to adorning a bride, symbolizing His grace and restorative work.
* **Luxury and Indulgence:** A woe is pronounced upon those who "anoint themselves with the finest oils" (וְהַסָּכִים בְּרֵאשִׁית שְׁמָנִים) in [[Amos 6:6]]. This use of çûwk denotes a self-indulgent and luxurious lifestyle, contrasting sharply with the national distress and impending judgment.
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of çûwk (`{{H5480}}`) is enriched by examining its relationship to other biblical terms and practices:
* **`{{H4886}}` (māshaḥ):** This is the most crucial distinction. While both çûwk and māshaḥ are translated "anoint," māshaḥ carries a strong theological connotation of consecration, setting apart individuals (priests, kings, prophets) or objects for sacred service (e.g., the tabernacle, altars). çûwk, by contrast, is primarily concerned with personal application for hygiene, health, or appearance. The nuanced difference underscores the varied purposes of anointing in ancient Israel.
* **`{{H8081}}` (shemen):** "Oil," the substance most commonly used with çûwk. Olive oil was a staple in ancient Israel, used for food, light, medicine, and cosmetic purposes. Its presence is often implicit when çûwk is used.
* **`{{H7225}}` (rō'sh):** "Head," which was a common part of the body to be anointed, particularly for personal refreshment or as a sign of honor.
* **Mourning Practices:** The cessation of anointing was a common sign of mourning and affliction, as seen in the contexts of David and Daniel. Conversely, resuming anointing signaled an end to a period of grief.
* **Hospitality:** Anointing the head of a guest with oil was a gesture of hospitality and honor (cf. Psalm 23:5, though not using çûwk). While çûwk doesn't explicitly appear in hospitality contexts, the general practice of anointing aligns with the broader cultural significance of oil.
### Theological Significance
While çûwk (`{{H5480}}`) primarily describes a mundane act of personal care, it carries subtle theological implications within its biblical contexts:
* **Humanity and Daily Life:** The frequent use of çûwk in contexts of daily routine, personal hygiene, and social customs underscores the Bible's engagement with the ordinary aspects of human existence. It reminds us that faith is lived out not just in grand rituals but in the minutiae of daily life.
* **Markers of Spiritual and Emotional State:** The use or absence of anointing with çûwk serves as a visible indicator of one's spiritual or emotional condition. Abstaining from anointing during fasting and mourning (Daniel) signifies devotion and affliction, while resuming it (David) marks a return to normalcy or acceptance.
* **Divine Care and Restoration:** The metaphorical application in [[Ezekiel 16:9]] is profoundly significant. God's act of "anointing" Israel with oil elevates a common personal act to a symbol of His tender, beautifying, and restorative grace. It illustrates His intimate involvement in preparing His people, akin to a groom preparing his bride, signifying a covenant relationship marked by love and adornment.
* **Critique of Self-Indulgence:** The condemnation in [[Amos 6:6]] highlights a negative theological aspect: the misuse of resources for self-indulgence and luxury amidst societal suffering. This demonstrates that even common practices can become morally problematic when detached from justice and compassion.
### Summary
The Hebrew root çûwk (`{{H5480}}`) denotes the act of "smearing" or "anointing," predominantly with oil, for purposes of personal care, beautification, or as a social custom. Unlike `{{H4886}}` (māshaḥ), which signifies ritual consecration, çûwk is found in contexts related to hygiene, preparation for social events (e.g., [[Ruth 3:3]]), or as a marker of one's state (e.g., cessation during mourning in [[2 Samuel 12:20]] and [[Daniel 10:3]]). Its metaphorical use in [[Ezekiel 16:9]] illustrates God's loving care and adornment of His people. The word illuminates aspects of daily life and social customs in ancient Israel, underscoring the significance of oil for personal well-being and appearance, while also serving as a subtle indicator of one's spiritual or emotional state.
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