or צַוָּר; (Nehemiah 3:5), or צַוָּרֹןlemma צַוָּרן missing vowel, corrected to צַוָּרֹן; (Song of Solomon 4:9), or (feminine) צַוָּארָה; (Micah 2:3), intensively from צוּר in the sense of binding; the back of the neck (as that on which burdens are bound); neck.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tsavvâʼr**, represented by `{{H6677}}`, refers to the **neck**. Appearing 42 times in 39 verses, its meaning extends beyond the physical body part. Derived from a root sense of binding, it often signifies the back of the neck, the place where burdens and yokes are carried. This imagery makes it a powerful symbol for servitude, subjugation, honor, and affection throughout scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H6677}}` is used to illustrate several key themes. It serves as a potent symbol of submission and defeat, as when Joshua commanded his captains to put their feet upon the **necks** of the defeated kings [[Joshua 10:24]]. Conversely, it represents tender reconciliation and love, seen when Esau fell on Jacob's **neck** [[Genesis 33:4]] and Joseph wept on his father's **neck** [[Genesis 46:29]]. The neck is also depicted as a place of honor, adorned with a gold **chain** as a sign of high rank [[Genesis 41:42]] or described with beautiful imagery in romantic poetry [[Song of Solomon 4:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concepts associated with the neck:
* `{{H5923}}` **ʻôl** (yoke): This word is frequently paired with `{{H6677}}` to symbolize bondage or servitude. The placing of a **yoke** upon the neck signifies submission to a higher power, whether to God or a conquering king [[Jeremiah 27:8]].
* `{{H7665}}` **shâbar** (to break): Signifying liberation, this word is used to describe the act of God breaking the yoke from His people's **neck**, releasing them from oppression and servitude [[Jeremiah 30:8]].
* `{{H6060}}` **ʻânâq** (chain): This term for a necklace or chain is used for adornment placed on the **neck**, representing beauty, honor, or affection [[Song of Solomon 4:9]].
* `{{H7291}}` **râdaph** (to pursue): This word describes the state of being under persecution, a condition felt upon the **neck**, highlighting a relentless and inescapable burden [[Lamentations 5:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6677}}` is significant, often portraying the relationship between God and humanity.
* **Subjugation and Judgment:** A **yoke** of iron on the neck symbolizes a curse for disobedience and the hardship of serving one's enemies [[Deuteronomy 28:48]]. The "yoke of my transgressions" is described as being bound upon the **neck**, representing the heavy burden of sin [[Lamentations 1:14]].
* **Divine Liberation:** God's redemptive power is frequently illustrated by the promise to break the yoke from Israel's **neck**. This act symbolizes freedom from slavery and oppression, and a restoration to divine favor ([[Isaiah 10:27]], [[Jeremiah 30:8]]).
* **Rebellion and Pride:** Speaking with a "stiff **neck**" is a metaphor for arrogance and defiance against God's authority [[Psalms 75:5]]. This posture of pride stands in direct opposition to the humility required for a right relationship with Him.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6677}}` is a deeply symbolic term in the Bible. It represents far more than a part of the body, serving as a canvas for depicting the human experience. Whether bearing the iron yoke of judgment, being freed from the bands of oppression, or adorned with chains of honor, the **neck** powerfully illustrates the dynamics of submission, freedom, sin, and redemption in the biblical account.
TRV