from an unused root meaning to dazzle; sheen, i.e. whiteness; white.
Transliteration:tsachar
Pronunciation:tsakh'-ar
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H6713}}` (צַחַר, *tsachar*) derives from an unused root that conveys the meaning "to dazzle." This etymological root is crucial, as it imbues the word with a sense of intense brightness, brilliance, or striking visibility, rather than merely a simple color description. The primary definitions include "sheen," implying a lustrous or reflective quality, and "whiteness," which is the direct manifestation of this dazzling attribute. Thus, `{{H6713}}` signifies a whiteness that is not merely pale or light, but one that is conspicuously bright, perhaps even radiant or gleaming. It suggests a quality that draws the eye and stands out.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H6713}}` appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in the poetic and triumphant Song of Deborah:
* [[Judges 5:10]]: "Speak, you who ride on white donkeys, who sit on rich carpets, and who walk by the way."
In this verse, the phrase "white donkeys" (אֲתֹנוֹת צְחֹרוֹת, *'athonot tzechorot*) refers to the mounts of the prominent and noble individuals within Israelite society. Riding on such animals was a mark of status, wealth, and authority, distinguishing them from those who walked or rode on less conspicuous beasts. The "whiteness" conveyed by `{{H6713}}` here is not just a descriptive color but emphasizes the striking, dazzling appearance of these donkeys, further highlighting the eminence and visibility of their riders. They are the ones who are seen, who are honored, and who are expected to "speak" or render judgment, underscoring their societal importance in a time of national victory and restoration.
### Related Words & Concepts
While `{{H6713}}` is unique in its specific application, its semantic field connects it to several related biblical concepts and terms:
* **Whiteness:** Other Hebrew words for "white" include `{{H3835}}` (לָבָן, *lavan*), the most common term, often used for things like snow, wool, or the color of leprosy, and `{{H2835}}` (חָוַר, *chavar*), meaning "to be white" or "pale." `{{H6713}}` distinguishes itself by emphasizing the *dazzling* or *shining* aspect of whiteness, rather than just the hue itself.
* **Brightness/Shine:** Words like `{{H215}}` (אוֹר, *'or*, "light"), `{{H5050}}` (נָגַהּ, *nagah*, "to shine"), or `{{H2094}}` (זָהַר, *zahar*, "to shine, warn") share a conceptual link to the root meaning of `{{H6713}}`, all pertaining to luminosity and visibility.
* **Status & Prominence:** The context in [[Judges 5:10]] links `{{H6713}}` to symbols of high status, wealth, and leadership, akin to terms describing royalty, nobility, or those who hold positions of honor.
* **Purity & Glory:** In broader biblical imagery, whiteness often symbolizes purity, righteousness, and divine glory (e.g., the white garments of angels, the transfigured Christ, or the purity of the redeemed). While `{{H6713}}` itself does not directly convey these theological meanings in its sole occurrence, its underlying sense of dazzling whiteness aligns conceptually with these more profound symbolic uses of the color.
### Theological Significance
Given its singular appearance, the direct theological implications of `{{H6713}}` are primarily derived from its context and its underlying root meaning. In [[Judges 5:10]], the "white donkeys" represent the *visible* and *esteemed* leaders of Israel, those who are blessed and established by God in the wake of victory. This can be seen as an earthly reflection of divine order and the prosperity granted to a faithful people.
Although not explicitly applied to God or divine attributes, the root meaning "to dazzle" resonates with descriptions of divine glory and purity in Scripture. God's presence is often depicted with overwhelming light, brilliance, and a purity that is beyond human comprehension. While `{{H6713}}` describes a secular status symbol, the choice of a word emphasizing *dazzling* whiteness subtly connects it to a broader biblical aesthetic where purity, prominence, and divine favor are often expressed through light and striking visual qualities. It signifies that which is unmistakably set apart and glorious to behold.
### Summary
`{{H6713}}` (צַחַר, *tsachar*) is a rare but evocative Hebrew term denoting a dazzling, conspicuous whiteness, derived from an unused root meaning "to dazzle." Its single biblical occurrence in [[Judges 5:10]] describes "white donkeys" as symbols of the nobility, wealth, and prominent status of Israel's leaders. The word emphasizes not merely a color, but a striking, radiant quality that sets apart and draws attention. While its direct theological application is limited to its context of societal honor and divine blessing, its underlying etymology connects it to broader biblical themes of light, purity, and divine glory, where whiteness often signifies righteousness, splendor, and that which is distinctly visible and revered.
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