from an unused root meaning to be slender; the lotus tree; shady tree.
Transliteration:tseʼel
Pronunciation:tseh'-el
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term H6628 (צֶאֶל, *tseʼel*) derives from an unused root, which is understood to convey the meaning "to be slender." This root characteristic likely describes an aspect of the tree's growth habit or the nature of its branches. As a noun, *tseʼel* specifically designates a type of tree, most commonly identified as the "lotus tree" (*Ziziphus lotus* or similar species like *Ziziphus spina-christi*). This identification points to a tree indigenous to arid and semi-arid regions, known for its thorny branches and, crucially, its ability to provide significant shade. The secondary definition, "shady tree," highlights its most prominent and practical characteristic in the context of the ancient Near East, where shade was a vital commodity in hot climates. Thus, the semantic range encompasses both a specific botanical identification and the functional benefit it offers.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word H6628 (צֶאֶל, *tseʼel*) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, found in the book of Job.
* [[Job 40:21]]: "Under the lotus trees (צֶאֶל) he lies, in the covert of the reeds and the marsh." This verse is part of God's elaborate description of Behemoth, a creature whose immense power and untameable nature underscore the Creator's sovereignty. The *tseʼel* tree is depicted as providing a natural, substantial shelter for this massive creature. The context emphasizes the raw, untamed aspects of creation, where even the largest beasts find refuge and sustenance within the divinely ordered natural world. The choice of the *tseʼel* here suggests a tree robust enough to offer significant cover, aligning with its identification as a shade-providing species. Its presence in this divine discourse serves to illustrate God's intimate knowledge of every detail of His creation, from the mightiest creatures to the specific flora that comprises their habitat.
### Related Words & Concepts
While H6628 (צֶאֶל, *tseʼel*) has a unique occurrence, it connects to broader biblical themes and related lexemes. The most immediate conceptual link is to shade, represented by the Hebrew word `{{H6738}}` (צֵל, *tsel*), which shares a similar consonantal root and denotes "shade" or "shadow." This connection reinforces the primary function of the *tseʼel* as a "shady tree." More generally, it relates to the numerous Hebrew words for trees, such as `{{H6086}}` (עֵץ, *'ets*), the generic term for "tree" or "wood," and `{{H7882}}` (שִׂיחַ, *siach*), referring to a "shrub" or "bush." The *tseʼel* stands alongside other significant trees mentioned in Scripture, such as the cedar (`{{H730}}`, אֶרֶז, *'erez*) and the oak (`{{H436}}`, אֵלָה, *'elah*), which often carry symbolic weight. In the context of Job, the *tseʼel* contributes to a detailed natural landscape, highlighting the intricate ecosystems designed by God.
### Theological Significance
The singular mention of H6628 (צֶאֶל, *tseʼel*) in [[Job 40:21]] carries profound theological weight, not so much for the tree itself, but for its role within God's discourse to Job. It serves as a testament to the Creator's meticulous attention to detail and His comprehensive knowledge of His creation. The *tseʼel* provides shelter for Behemoth, a creature whose existence challenges Job's limited understanding of divine power and wisdom. By describing Behemoth's habitat with such specificity, God underscores His sovereign control over the wild and untamed aspects of the world, aspects that lie beyond human comprehension or dominion. The presence of the *tseʼel* in this context subtly reinforces the theme that God's wisdom is manifest in the intricate balance and provision within creation, even for creatures seemingly beyond human control. It contributes to the overwhelming argument that Job, a mere human, cannot fathom the depths of divine wisdom or challenge the divine order.
### Summary
The Hebrew word H6628 (צֶאֶל, *tseʼel*) identifies the "lotus tree," noted for its slender characteristics and, most significantly, its capacity to provide shade. Its sole biblical occurrence in [[Job 40:21]] places it as the chosen shelter for Behemoth, a creature of immense power. This specific detail in God's speech to Job underscores the Creator's exhaustive knowledge and meticulous care for all aspects of His creation, from the largest beasts to the specific flora that sustains them. The *tseʼel* thus serves as a subtle yet powerful witness to divine wisdom and sovereignty, reinforcing the central message of Job concerning the incomprehensibility of God's ways to human understanding. It is a testament to the intricate and perfectly ordered world that God alone sustains.
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