from an unused root meaning to establish; a palanquin or canopy (as a fixture); also a species of lizard (probably as clinging fast); covered, litter, tortoise.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tsâb**, represented by `{{H6632}}`, is a versatile term with several distinct meanings. Derived from an unused root meaning to establish, it can refer to a **tortoise**, a **litter**, or a **canopy**. Though it appears only **3 times** in **3 unique verses**, its contexts are significant, touching upon ceremonial law, sacred offerings, and prophetic restoration.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The uses of `{{H6632}}` vary widely across its appearances. In Leviticus, it is listed among the creeping things that are **unclean** `{{H2931}}` to Israel, where it is translated as **tortoise** [[Leviticus 11:29]]. In Numbers, it is used as an adjective, describing the six **covered** `{{H6632}}` wagons `{{H5699}}` that the princes of Israel brought as an offering before the tabernacle [[Numbers 7:3]]. Finally, in Isaiah, it refers to **litters** `{{H6632}}`, a mode of transport for bringing the brethren of Israel from all nations as an offering to the LORD's holy mountain [[Isaiah 66:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which `{{H6632}}` is found:
* `{{H5699}}` **ʻăgâlâh** (wagon): This word for a wheeled vehicle is directly associated with `{{H6632}}` in [[Numbers 7:3]], where the wagons are described as "covered". It denotes something revolving or a wheeled vehicle.
* `{{H2931}}` **ṭâmêʼ** (unclean): This term, meaning foul in a religious sense, is used to classify the **tortoise** `{{H6632}}` in the dietary laws given to Israel [[Leviticus 11:29]], establishing a clear distinction between what is clean and what is defiled.
* `{{H4503}}` **minchâh** (offering): This word for a sacrificial donation or gift appears in [[Isaiah 66:20]], where people are brought in **litters** `{{H6632}}` as an **offering** `{{H4503}}` to the LORD, similar to the clean offerings brought by the children of Israel.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H6632}}` is derived from its three distinct contexts:
* **Ceremonial Purity:** The classification of the **tortoise** `{{H6632}}` as **unclean** `{{H2931}}` is a key part of the Levitical law, which teaches separation and holiness by defining what is acceptable for God's people [[Leviticus 11:29]].
* **Sacred Offerings:** In Numbers, the **covered** `{{H6632}}` wagons are part of a holy **offering** `{{H7133}}` brought by the **princes** `{{H5387}}` for the service of the tabernacle, illustrating a principle of giving generously for the work of the LORD [[Numbers 7:3]].
* **Prophetic Restoration:** Isaiah's prophecy uses **litters** `{{H6632}}` to paint a picture of God's future ingathering of His people from all **nations** `{{H1471}}`. They are brought to **Jerusalem** `{{H3389}}` as a treasured **offering** `{{H4503}}`, highlighting God's intention to restore His people [[Isaiah 66:20]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6632}}` demonstrates how a single, infrequently used Hebrew word can carry a range of meanings. Whether identifying an unclean animal, describing a covering for sacred transport, or signifying a vehicle for a restored people, **tsâb** consistently appears in passages central to understanding God's standards for holiness, the nature of worship, and His ultimate redemptive plans for Israel.
TRV