a primitive root; to hide (by covering), literally or figuratively; be absent, keep close, conceal, hide (self), (keep) secret, [idiom] surely.
Transliteration:çâthar
Pronunciation:saw-thar'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew root סָתַר (çâthar), Strong's number `{{H5641}}`, is a primitive root primarily meaning "to hide" or "to conceal." This core meaning encompasses both literal and figurative applications. Literally, it refers to the physical act of covering something or placing it out of sight. Figuratively, it extends to the concealment of information, intentions, or even the divine presence. The semantic range includes nuances such as "to be absent," "to keep close," "to keep secret," and, in certain idiomatic constructions, "surely" (implying something firmly established or hidden from doubt).
The various binyanim (verb stems) of *sāthar* further delineate its meaning:
* **Nifal (Niphal):** Often reflexive, "to hide oneself" or "to be hidden."
* **Piel (Piel):** Intensive, "to hide completely," "to conceal thoroughly," or "to protect."
* **Hifil (Hiphil):** Causative, "to cause to hide," "to make secret," or "to keep secret."
* **Hofal (Hophal):** Passive causative, "to be hidden" or "to be kept secret."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The root *sāthar* appears frequently throughout the Hebrew Bible, revealing diverse applications:
1. **Human Hiding from God:** Perhaps the most poignant early use is in [[Genesis 3:8]] and [[Genesis 3:10]], where Adam and Eve attempt to "hide themselves" (Nifal) from the presence of the Lord God after their sin. This illustrates the immediate human response of guilt and shame, a futile attempt to escape divine scrutiny.
2. **God Hiding His Face:** This is a profound and recurring theological motif. When God "hides His face" (Hifil), it signifies a withdrawal of His favor, presence, or direct intervention. This can be a sign of divine displeasure or judgment due to Israel's sin ([[Deuteronomy 31:17]], [[Isaiah 59:2]]), or a period of testing and apparent abandonment that prompts lament and desperate seeking from the faithful ([[Psalm 10:11]], [[Psalm 27:9]], [[Isaiah 8:17]]). It is crucial to note that this is not an inability of God to see, but a sovereign choice to conceal His active presence or favor.
3. **Human Hiding from Danger/Enemies:** *Sāthar* is often used in a practical sense for self-preservation or strategic concealment. Examples include Rahab hiding the Israelite spies ([[Joshua 2:16]]) or David hiding from Saul ([[1 Samuel 19:2]]).
4. **Concealing Information or Sin:** The word can refer to keeping secrets ([[Proverbs 11:13]]) or attempting to conceal one's transgressions ([[Proverbs 28:13]]).
5. **God as Protector:** In a comforting sense, God Himself is depicted as "hiding" or protecting His people. He can "hide" them in the secret place of His presence from the conspiracies of men ([[Psalm 31:20]], Piel).
6. **Hidden Wisdom/Plans:** Divine wisdom or the deep things of God are sometimes described as "hidden" (Nifal or Hofal), emphasizing their inaccessibility without divine revelation ([[Job 28:21]], [[Deuteronomy 29:29]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
* **Synonyms:**
* `{{H3588}}` (כָּחַד *kāḥad*): "to hide, conceal, deny." Often has a nuance of denial or withholding.
* `{{H6845}}` (צָפַן *ṣāphan*): "to hide, treasure up." Often implies preserving something valuable or precious.
* `{{H5956}}` (עָלַם *‘ālam*): "to hide, be hidden, be secret." Frequently used for things unknown or overlooked, often in a passive sense.
* **Antonyms/Opposites:**
* `{{H1540}}` (גָּלָה *gālāh*): "to uncover, reveal, disclose."
* `{{H2965}}` (יָצָא *yāṣā’*): "to go out, appear."
* **Key Concepts:**
* **Divine Omnipresence vs. Divine Hiddenness (Deus Absconditus):** The tension between God's ubiquitous presence and His sovereign choice to conceal His face or actions.
* **Revelation:** The counterpoint to hiddenness, where God chooses to make Himself or His will known.
* **Guilt and Shame:** The human desire to hide from an omniscient God after sin.
* **Refuge and Protection:** God's capacity to be a "hiding place" for His people.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of *sāthar* is profound and multifaceted.
1. **The Mystery of Divine Hiddenness (Deus Absconditus):** The concept of God "hiding His face" is one of the most powerful theological expressions in the Old Testament. It signifies not God's absence or inability, but a deliberate withdrawal of His visible presence, favor, or direct intervention. This hiddenness is often a consequence of human sin ([[Isaiah 59:2]]), serving as a form of divine discipline or judgment. It can also be a test of faith, prompting the righteous to cry out in lament and persistent prayer, seeking His face even when it seems concealed ([[Psalm 27:9]]). This paradox—that God is both omnipresent yet can hide Himself—underscores His absolute sovereignty and transcendence.
2. **Human Sin and Futile Concealment:** The narrative of Adam and Eve's attempt to hide from God after the Fall ([[Genesis 3:8]]) sets a foundational pattern for human sin. It reveals the immediate consequence of guilt and shame, leading to a futile effort to escape the gaze of an omniscient God. This highlights the inherent human desire to conceal wrongdoing, yet also emphasizes the inescapable nature of divine knowledge and the necessity of divine initiative for reconciliation.
3. **God as Protector and Refuge:** Conversely, *sāthar* also portrays God as the ultimate protector. He is the one who can "hide" His people from their enemies, from the schemes of the wicked, and from various dangers ([[Psalm 31:20]]). This aspect of *sāthar* offers comfort and assurance, portraying God as a secure refuge where the righteous find safety and peace in His hidden presence.
4. **Divine Wisdom and Revelation:** The idea that God's wisdom, plans, and ultimate truth are "hidden" from human comprehension ([[Job 28:21]]) underscores the need for divine revelation. Humanity cannot discover God's deepest truths through mere intellectual pursuit; rather, God must choose to reveal Himself and His ways. This sets the stage for the progressive unfolding of God's redemptive plan, culminating in the ultimate revelation of His character and will in Jesus Christ.
### Summary
The Hebrew root *sāthar* (`{{H5641}}`) fundamentally conveys the idea of "to hide" or "to conceal," extending from literal physical acts to deep theological concepts. Its usage in the biblical text is remarkably rich, illustrating both humanity's futile attempts to hide from a holy God after sin and God's sovereign act of "hiding His face" as a form of judgment or a test of faith. Paradoxically, *sāthar* also describes God's protective care, as He provides a "hiding place" for His people in times of trouble. Furthermore, the concept of divine wisdom being "hidden" emphasizes God's transcendence and the necessity of His self-revelation. Ultimately, *sāthar* illuminates the complex dynamics of presence and absence, revelation and concealment, in the profound relationship between the Creator and His creation.
TRV