or עַמֻּד; from עָמַד; a column (as standing); also a stand, i.e. platform; [idiom] apiece, pillar.
Transliteration:ʻammûwd
Pronunciation:am-mood'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun עַמּוּד (ʻammûwd, `{{H5982}}`) is derived from the verb עָמַד (ʻamad, `{{H5975}}`), meaning "to stand," "to stand up," or "to stand firm." This etymological root is crucial for understanding the core semantic range of `{{H5982}}`. Its primary meaning is "column" or "pillar," emphasizing an upright structure designed to bear weight and provide support.
Beyond its literal architectural sense, `{{H5982}}` extends to denote anything that stands as a stable, enduring, or prominent feature. This can include a "stand" or "platform," implying a raised or established base. While the Strong's definition includes "apiece" as an idiom, this usage is rare or highly contextual and less central to the word's primary theological and structural implications, which overwhelmingly revolve around the concept of a supportive or standing element. The essential semantic thread is one of stability, support, and verticality.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{H5982}}` appears frequently throughout the Old Testament, illuminating its diverse applications:
1. **Divine Manifestation and Guidance:** Perhaps the most iconic usage is the "pillar of cloud" by day and "pillar of fire" by night that guided Israel through the wilderness ([[Exodus 13:21-22]], [[Exodus 14:24]], [[Numbers 14:14]]). Here, `{{H5982}}` signifies God's tangible, visible presence, acting as a constant guide and protector. This divine pillar was a dynamic, moving entity, yet it represented steadfast, unwavering divine leading.
2. **Sacred Architecture:** `{{H5982}}` is extensively used to describe the structural elements of the Tabernacle and Temple. Pillars were essential for supporting the curtains of the Tabernacle ([[Exodus 26:32]], [[Exodus 27:10]], [[Exodus 36:36]]) and the outer court ([[Exodus 38:10]]). In Solomon's Temple, the two massive bronze pillars, Jachin and Boaz, stood prominently at the entrance ([[1 Kings 7:15-22]], [[2 Chronicles 3:15-17]]). These were not merely structural but bore profound symbolic weight, representing establishment and strength.
3. **Cosmic Stability:** Metaphorically, `{{H5982}}` describes the foundational elements of the earth and heavens. Hannah's prayer in [[1 Samuel 2:8]] declares that "the pillars of the earth are the Lord's, and on them He has set the world." Similarly, [[Job 9:6]] speaks of God shaking the earth "from its place, and its pillars tremble." In these contexts, pillars symbolize the very stability and order of creation, upheld by divine power.
4. **Architectural and Domestic Structures:** Samson's destruction of the Philistine temple by collapsing its central pillars ([[Judges 16:25-29]]) vividly illustrates the critical role of pillars in ancient architecture. The term also appears in descriptions of domestic settings, such as the "pillars of smoke" rising from the wilderness in [[Song of Solomon 3:6]], creating a visual image of a stately procession.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic connection for `{{H5982}}` is its root verb, עָמַד (ʻamad, `{{H5975}}`), which denotes "to stand," "to endure," "to remain," or "to be firm." This inherent sense of stability and steadfastness is fully carried into the noun `{{H5982}}`.
Other related concepts and words include:
* **Foundation/Base:** Words like יְסוֹד (yesod, `{{H3247}}`), meaning "foundation" or "base," share the concept of providing support, though `{{H5982}}` specifically implies a vertical, load-bearing element.
* **Support/Staff:** מִשְׁעֶנֶת (mishʻenet, `{{H4938}}`), "staff" or "support," refers to an object used for leaning or support, highlighting the functional aspect of `{{H5982}}`.
* **Monument/Stone:** מַצֵּבָה (matzevah, `{{H4676}}`), "standing stone" or "pillar," often refers to a commemorative or cultic stone, which, like `{{H5982}}`, stands upright but generally does not serve a structural purpose.
The concept of a "pillar" is intrinsically linked to ideas of strength, permanence, reliability, and the capacity to bear weight or responsibility.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H5982}}` is profound and multi-faceted:
1. **Divine Presence and Guidance:** The pillar of cloud and fire is a powerful symbol of God's immanent presence with His people. It represents His active, tangible guidance, protection, and provision in the wilderness, signifying His faithfulness to His covenant ([[Exodus 13:21]]). It is a visual testament to God's commitment to lead His people.
2. **Cosmic Sovereignty and Stability:** The "pillars of the earth" ([[1 Samuel 2:8]], [[Job 9:6]]) underscore God's absolute sovereignty as the Creator and Sustainer of the cosmos. He alone established the world's foundations and maintains its order. This imagery conveys the immense power and wisdom of God, who upholds all things by His word.
3. **Sacred Space and Divine Dwelling:** The pillars of the Tabernacle and Temple ([[Exodus 26:32]], [[1 Kings 7:15]]) are more than mere architectural necessities; they symbolize the structural integrity and sacredness of God's dwelling place among His people. The prominent pillars Jachin ("He will establish") and Boaz ("in Him is strength") at the Temple entrance were prophetic declarations, affirming God's promise to establish His covenant and provide strength to His people and the Davidic dynasty.
4. **Endurance and Steadfastness:** Inherently, a pillar speaks of something that stands firm and endures. Theologically, this reflects God's unchanging character, His steadfast love (חֶסֶד, `{{H2617}}`), and the unwavering nature of His promises. It can also represent the stability and endurance God provides to those who trust in Him.
### Summary
The Hebrew word עַמּוּד (ʻammûwd, `{{H5982}}`), derived from the verb "to stand," primarily denotes a "pillar" or "column." Its core meaning emphasizes an upright, load-bearing structure that provides support and stability. In the Old Testament, `{{H5982}}` carries significant theological weight. It powerfully symbolizes God's tangible presence and unwavering guidance through the pillar of cloud and fire. It speaks to God's sovereign power as the One who established and upholds the "pillars of the earth," maintaining cosmic order. Furthermore, in sacred architecture, such as the Tabernacle and Temple, pillars represent the structural integrity of God's dwelling place and carry symbolic meanings of establishment and strength. Ultimately, `{{H5982}}` conveys fundamental concepts of divine steadfastness, enduring support, and the foundational stability provided by God's presence and power.
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