a primitive root (identical with through the idea of narrowness (of orifice)); to pour out, i.e. (figuratively) smelt, utter; be molten, pour.
Transliteration:tsûwq
Pronunciation:tsook
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew root צוּק (tsûwq), Strong's `{{H6694}}`, is a primitive root whose fundamental meaning is intimately connected to the concept of "narrowness of orifice," which then gives rise to the action of "pouring out." This core idea branches into several distinct yet related semantic applications:
1. **Literal Pouring:** In its most direct sense, צוּק refers to the physical act of pouring a liquid or molten substance, often implying a controlled or channeled flow due to a constricted opening.
2. **Metallurgical Processes:** A significant extension of the meaning is found in the realm of metallurgy, where it signifies "smelting" or "being molten." This describes the process of melting metal and subsequently pouring it, or the state of a substance being in a molten, pourable form. It inherently suggests transformation through intense heat and a subsequent shaping or solidification.
3. **Figurative Utterance:** The concept of "pouring out" can also be applied metaphorically to speech, signifying the "uttering" or "speaking forth" of words, as if they are flowing from an internal source.
The close relationship, even identity in some analyses, with `{{H6693}}` (tsûq), meaning "to be narrow" or "to be in distress," underscores the shared conceptual space where constraint or distress can lead to a release or flow.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Occurrences of צוּק (tsûwq) in the Hebrew Bible are relatively infrequent, yet they provide crucial insight into its semantic breadth:
* In [[Job 28:2]], the word is clearly employed in its metallurgical sense: "Iron is taken out of the earth, and copper is *molten* out of the stone." Here, it describes the arduous and transformative process of extracting and refining valuable metals from their raw ore through intense heat, highlighting an act of purification and preparation.
* [[Job 41:23]] (MT 41:15), in a description of the Leviathan, presents a more nuanced usage: "The folds of his flesh are joined together; they are firm upon him; they cannot be moved." While various translations exist, some interpretations connect צוּק here to the idea of something being "cast firm" or "solidified" like molten metal that has cooled. This points to the resulting state of immense strength, rigidity, and immovability achieved through a process akin to casting.
* [[2 Samuel 5:8]] offers a debated but plausible instance: "And David said on that day, 'Whoever strikes the Jebusites, let him get up the water shaft (or 'gutter').'" Some scholarly analyses link צוּק here to a narrow "water channel" or "gutter" (צוּר/צוּק). If this derivation is correct, it directly aligns with the root's core meaning of a narrow passage through which water flows or is poured, facilitating access or movement.
These contexts collectively demonstrate the word's application from literal industrial processes to figurative descriptions of strength and potentially to specific topographical features related to constrained flow.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of צוּק (tsûwq) connects it to several other significant Hebrew terms and theological concepts:
* **`{{H6693}}` (tsûq):** This is the most directly related term, often considered to be the same root or a very close cognate. `{{H6693}}` means "to be narrow," "to press," or "to be in distress." The conceptual link is profound: distress (a "narrow place") can lead to an "outpouring" (e.g., of prayer, tears, or even divine judgment).
* **`{{H5258}}` (nāśak):** This verb also means "to pour out," frequently used for libations or drink offerings, emphasizing a ritualistic and intentional pouring.
* **`{{H8210}}` (shāphak):** A more general and common term for "to pour out" or "to shed," often used for shedding blood, pouring out water, or figuratively pouring out one's soul or heart.
* **`{{H6862}}` (tsar):** An adjective meaning "narrow," "tight," or "distressed," reinforcing the foundational concept of constraint or difficulty from which צוּק derives its meaning of outpouring.
* **Concepts of Refining and Testing:** The metallurgical sense of צוּק strongly resonates with the broader biblical theme of God's refining work, purification, and testing of His people, often depicted through the imagery of a refiner's fire (e.g., `{{H6884}}` tsāraph - to refine).
* **Concepts of Outpouring (Divine/Human):** Whether referring to the outpouring of divine wrath, blessing, or human supplication, the act of "pouring out" is a pervasive biblical motif, signifying a release or manifestation.
### Theological Significance
The various facets of צוּק (tsûwq) bear profound theological implications within the biblical narrative:
1. **Divine Refinement and Purification:** The use of צוּק in the context of smelting metal ([[Job 28:2]]) serves as a powerful metaphor for God's sovereign work in the lives of His covenant people. Just as raw ore is subjected to intense heat to purify it and transform it into valuable metal, so too does God allow His people to pass through trials, distress, and "narrow places" (linking to `{{H6693}}`). These experiences are not punitive but purgative, designed to refine character, remove impurities, and shape believers into instruments fit for His holy purposes. This process, though often arduous, is ultimately redemptive and leads to greater purity and usefulness.
2. **Idolatry and False Worship:** While צוּק itself is not directly used for "molten images" in its primary definition, the concept of "being molten" is intrinsically linked to the creation of idols (e.g., `{{H4541}}` massēkhāh - molten image). The human skill to melt and cast metal, a gift from God, was frequently perverted in ancient Israel to fashion objects of false worship. This stands in stark theological contrast to the worship of the living God, who is transcendent and cannot be confined to any created form or material.
3. **Human Expression and Supplication:** The figurative sense of "uttering" or "pouring out" connects to the deep human experience of expressing emotion or petition before the Divine. In moments of "narrowness" or profound distress (`{{H6693}}`), individuals often "pour out" their hearts, laments, or prayers to God. This act of unburdening oneself, releasing words and emotions from the depths of one's being, is a vital and cathartic aspect of biblical spirituality, fostering communion and dependence on God.
4. **Divine Judgment:** Although צוּק is not a primary term for divine wrath, the broader concept of "pouring out" (as seen with `{{H8210}}`) is a frequent metaphor for God's righteous judgment, where His indignation and justice are unleashed upon sin and rebellion.
### Summary
The Hebrew root צוּק (tsûwq), `{{H6694}}`, is a potent and multifaceted word whose core meaning is rooted in the concept of "narrowness of orifice" leading to the act of "pouring out." This foundational idea expands to encompass the metallurgical process of "smelting" or "being molten," and figuratively, the "uttering" of words. Its biblical occurrences, though sparse, vividly illustrate its application in describing the refining of metals ([[Job 28:2]]) and potentially the firm, cast-like nature of a powerful creature ([[Job 41:23]]), or a narrow water channel ([[2 Samuel 5:8]]). Bearing a close semantic relationship to `{{H6693}}` ("to be narrow, distressed"), צוּק carries significant theological weight. It profoundly speaks to God's refining and purifying work in the lives of His people, transforming them through trials; implicitly underscores the dangers of idolatry through molten images; and can symbolize the human act of pouring out one's heart in prayer or the divine act of judgment. Ultimately, צוּק powerfully conveys how constraint or intense process can lead to a significant outpouring, whether of material, words, or divine purpose.
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