a primitive root; to glisten; used only as denominative from יִצְהָר,; to press out oil; make oil.
Transliteration:tsâhar
Pronunciation:tsaw-har'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew root H6671 (צָהַר, *tsâhar*) presents a fascinating duality in its semantic range. Its primitive, core meaning is "to glisten" or "to shine," implying a radiant quality, perhaps associated with brightness or purity. This suggests an inherent connection to light and visual brilliance.
However, the Strong's definition notes that H6671 is "used only as denominative from יִצְהָר," which is H3323 (*yitshâr*), meaning "fresh oil" or "olive oil." This denominative usage shifts the primary biblical application of the root to the act of "pressing out oil" or "making oil." Thus, while the inherent idea of "glistening" might subtly inform the quality of fine, fresh oil, the practical, tangible meaning related to oil production becomes dominant through its relationship with H3323. This highlights how Hebrew roots can evolve or specialize their meaning based on common usage and derivation from related nouns.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verbal form of H6671 (צָהַר) is exceedingly rare in the Masoretic Text (MT) and its direct occurrences are subject to scholarly debate. The sole instance where some lexicons and scholars propose the presence of H6671 as a verb is in [[Job 29:6]].
In [[Job 29:6]], the MT reads: "כִּי־בְרָחֳץ הֲלִיכַי בְּחֵמָה וְצוּר יָצוּק עִמָּדִי פַּלְגֵי שָׁמֶן׃" (For when I washed my steps with butter, and the rock poured out for me streams of oil.) The verb "poured out" here is יָצוּק (*yāṣûq*), a passive participle from the root H3332 (יָצַק, *yatsaq*), meaning "to pour" or "to cast."
Some scholars, however, suggest an emendation or textual variant at this point, proposing that the original or intended reading might have been a form of H6671 (צָהַר), meaning "to press out oil," or even a form of H3323 (יִצְהָר), the noun for "fresh oil." If such an emendation were accepted, the verse would read something like, "and the rock pressed out for me streams of oil." This interpretation would align with the denominative meaning of H6671 and the context of abundance and blessing described by Job.
However, since the standard MT does not contain H6671 as a verb in this verse, extensive contextual analysis of its direct verbal form is not possible. Its significance, therefore, lies more in its semantic connection to the noun H3323 and the broader concept of oil.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word to H6671 is its denominative source:
* H3323 (יִצְהָר, *yitshâr*): This noun specifically refers to "fresh oil," particularly olive oil, which was a staple of life in ancient Israel. It was used for food, light, anointing, and medicinal purposes. The connection between H6671 and H3323 is paramount, as the verb's meaning of "to press out oil" directly relates to the production of this vital commodity.
Other related terms and concepts include:
* H8081 (שֶׁמֶן, *shemen*): A more general term for "oil" or "fat," encompassing various types and uses.
* H3332 (יָצַק, *yatsaq*): "To pour," "to cast," the verb actually found in [[Job 29:6]], which describes the action of oil flowing forth.
* Concepts of **abundance and blessing**: Oil, especially fresh oil, was a sign of God's provision and prosperity ([[Deuteronomy 8:8]], [[Joel 2:24]]).
* Concepts of **light and purity**: The primitive root "to glisten" subtly connects to the use of oil for lamps, symbolizing divine presence and guidance ([[Exodus 27:20]]).
* Concepts of **anointing and consecration**: Oil was central to rituals of anointing priests, kings, and prophets, signifying divine election and empowerment ([[Exodus 29:7]], [[1 Samuel 10:1]]).
### Theological Significance
While H6671 itself is not a prominent verbal presence in the biblical text, its theological significance is deeply embedded in the concept of "oil" (H3323, H8081) which it is semantically tied to. The act of "pressing out oil," even if the verb is rare, points to the labor involved in producing a sacred and essential commodity.
Theologically, oil, particularly olive oil, carries profound symbolism:
* **Divine Provision and Blessing:** The abundance of oil was a tangible sign of God's favor and the fertility of the land. Its presence signified prosperity, while its absence indicated judgment or famine.
* **Consecration and Anointing:** Oil was the primary medium for anointing, setting apart individuals (priests, kings, prophets) and objects for sacred service. This act symbolized divine appointment, empowering them with the Spirit of God for their designated roles. It speaks to God's sovereign choice and enablement.
* **Light and Guidance:** Oil fueled the lamps in the Tabernacle and Temple, providing continuous light. This symbolizes the constant presence of God, His illumination of the path of righteousness, and the light of His Word to His people.
* **Healing and Restoration:** Oil was used for medicinal purposes, often applied to wounds. This practice reflects a broader theological truth of God as the ultimate Healer and Restorer, providing balm for both physical and spiritual ailments.
* **Joy and Festivity:** Oil was also used as a cosmetic, often associated with joy and celebration, contrasting with the mourning practice of abstaining from oil.
Thus, even through its indirect presence, H6671 points to the sacred and practical significance of oil, which is deeply interwoven with themes of divine provision, anointing, light, and blessing throughout the biblical narrative. The primitive meaning "to glisten" can be seen as an inherent quality of the finest oil, representing its purity and readiness for sacred use.
### Summary
The Hebrew word H6671 (צָהַר, *tsâhar*) carries a dual semantic range: a primitive meaning "to glisten" or "to shine," and a denominative meaning "to press out oil" or "to make oil," derived from the noun H3323 (יִצְהָר, "fresh oil"). While its direct verbal presence in the standard Masoretic Text is highly debated, with the proposed occurrence in [[Job 29:6]] being a textual emendation rather than the received reading, its conceptual significance remains strong through its intrinsic link to the production and use of oil. This connection imbues H6671 with the rich theological symbolism of oil in the Bible, encompassing divine provision, anointing for sacred service, the light of God's presence, and spiritual healing. Though a rare verbal form, H6671 points to a fundamental aspect of ancient Israelite life and worship, reflecting God's abundant blessing and His consecration of His people.
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