a primitive root; to glitter, i.e. be golden in color; [idiom] fine.
Transliteration:tsâhab
Pronunciation:tsaw-hab'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew root `{{H6668}}` (tsâhab) is a primitive root, meaning it is not derived from another word but stands as a foundational concept. Its primary semantic range encompasses the ideas of "to glitter," "to shine," or "to be golden in color." This suggests a visual quality of brilliance, luster, or a rich, yellow hue akin to gold. The extended or idiomatic sense, "fine," naturally flows from this, as materials that glitter or possess a golden color are often considered to be of high quality, precious, or pure. Thus, the word conveys not merely a color, but an inherent value and splendid appearance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The root `{{H6668}}` (tsâhab) is remarkably rare in the Hebrew Bible, appearing only once in the Masoretic Text. This singular occurrence is found in:
* [[Ezra 8:27]]: "Also twenty bowls of gold, of a thousand darics; and two vessels of fine bright bronze, precious as gold."
In this context, `{{H6668}}` is used to describe the quality of bronze vessels designated for the Temple treasury. The phrase "fine bright bronze" (נְחֹשֶׁת מֻצְהָבָה נְחֻשְׁתָּה) employs the Hophal participle of `{{H6668}}`, indicating something that has been made to glitter or appear golden. The subsequent description, "precious as gold," further emphasizes the exceptional quality and appearance of these bronze items. They were not merely ordinary bronze but possessed a luster and value comparable to gold, making them suitable for sacred use in the Lord's house. This single usage highlights the word's association with preciousness, aesthetic excellence, and suitability for divine service.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most immediate and striking lexical relationship to `{{H6668}}` (tsâhab) is the Hebrew noun for "gold," `{{H2091}}` (zahab). The phonetic similarity is undeniable, suggesting either a direct etymological link where the noun "gold" is derived from a root describing its characteristic glitter, or that both terms share a common ancient Semitic root related to brightness and yellow color. This connection reinforces the "golden in color" aspect of `{{H6668}}`.
Other related concepts include words signifying brightness, purity, and preciousness:
* `{{H2094}}` (zahar): "to shine," "to warn" (related to light).
* `{{H215}}` (or): "light," "daylight."
* `{{H2896}}` (ṭôb): "good," "fine," "pleasant," often used to describe quality.
* `{{H2889}}` (ṭāhôr): "pure," "clean," often used for ritual purity or unadulterated substances.
These related terms collectively paint a picture of qualities that are desirable, excellent, and often associated with the divine or sacred.
### Theological Significance
The singular appearance of `{{H6668}}` (tsâhab) in [[Ezra 8:27]] carries significant theological weight. The context is the meticulous inventory of precious vessels and materials being brought back to Jerusalem for the rebuilt Temple. The description of bronze as "fine bright bronze, precious as gold" elevates its status beyond mere utility.
Theologically, this highlights several points:
1. **Excellence in Worship:** God demands the best. Even items not made of pure gold were to be of such exceptional quality and appearance that they paralleled gold in value and splendor. This reflects a principle that offerings and materials dedicated to God's service should be of the highest possible standard, demonstrating reverence and honor.
2. **Symbolism of Luster and Purity:** In biblical thought, gold and shining objects often symbolize divine glory, purity, holiness, and enduring value. The "brightness" described by `{{H6668}}` for the bronze vessels imbues them with a symbolic quality, suggesting that they, too, reflect a measure of divine glory or purity, making them fit for God's sanctuary.
3. **Divine Valuation:** The text emphasizes that even bronze, when possessing this "golden" quality, is "precious as gold." This underscores God's valuation of quality and devotion, regardless of the inherent material. What is offered to God should be excellent, reflecting the Giver more than the gift itself.
### Summary
The Hebrew root `{{H6668}}` (tsâhab) is a primitive root signifying "to glitter," "to shine," or "to be golden in color," with an extended meaning of "fine" or "excellent." Its sole biblical occurrence in [[Ezra 8:27]] describes bronze vessels as "fine bright bronze," emphasizing their exceptional luster and value, comparing them to gold. This rare but potent word is closely related to `{{H2091}}` (zahab), "gold," reinforcing its semantic field of preciousness and brilliance. Theologically, the use of `{{H6668}}` underscores the biblical principle of offering the highest quality and most beautiful materials for divine service, symbolizing reverence, purity, and the glory of God. It teaches that even non-gold items, when dedicated to the Lord with excellence, can attain a value "precious as gold."
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