The Hebrew word tsayid, represented by H6718, refers to game or that which is taken in a hunt. It appears 19 times across 18 unique verses in the Bible. Its meaning extends from the act of the chase itself to the resulting food, such as venison, and can also describe general provisions or victuals, especially for a journey.
In the biblical narrative, H6718 is used in several key contexts. It defines a person's skill or role, as with Nimrod, a "mighty hunter" Genesis 10:9, and Esau, a "cunning hunter" Genesis 25:27. The word is central to the story of Jacob's deception, where Isaac asks Esau to hunt for venison Genesis 27:5 so he can give his blessing. The term is also used for general provisions, such as the "victuals" the Gibeonites used in their ruse Joshua 9:14 and the provision God promises to bless for Zion Psalms 132:15.
Several related words expand upon the concepts of hunting and sustenance:
- H6679 tsûwd (to hunt): This is the primitive root from which tsayid is derived, meaning to lie in wait or to catch an animal. Esau went to the field to hunt for venison Genesis 27:5, showing the direct link between the action and the object.
- H4303 maṭʻam (savoury meat): This term for a delicacy is closely associated with tsayid. Isaac requested that Esau make him savoury meat from the venison he was to hunt Genesis 27:7.
- H3899 lechem (bread, food): As a staple food, lechem is sometimes paired with tsayid to indicate full sustenance. This is seen when God promises to bless Zion's provision and satisfy her poor with bread Psalms 132:15, and in the description of the Gibeonites' old bread of their provision Joshua 9:5.
- H7198 qesheth (bow): An instrument for hunting, the bow is explicitly mentioned when Isaac instructs Esau to take his weapons, including his bow, and get him venison Genesis 27:3.
The theological weight of H6718 is seen in its connection to divine oversight and human responsibility.
- Divine Provision: The word highlights God's role as the ultimate sustainer. He is the one who provides the raven its food (tsayid) Job 38:41 and who promises to bless Zion's provision (tsayid) Psalms 132:15.
- Human Character and Action: tsayid is tied to the identity and actions of key figures. Nimrod is remembered as a mighty hunter Genesis 10:9, while Esau's skill as a hunter is integral to the narrative of the blessing he lost to Jacob Genesis 25:27.
- Righteous Conduct and Law: The word is used within the framework of law and wisdom. Leviticus gives instruction for handling a beast or fowl taken in a hunt (catcheth) Leviticus 17:13, and Proverbs uses the failure to roast what was taken in hunting as an example of slothfulness Proverbs 12:27.
In summary, H6718 is a multifaceted term that moves beyond a simple definition of "game." It encompasses the hunter, the chase, the resulting food, and the broader idea of provision. Its use in foundational narratives and legal contexts illustrates its importance in understanding themes of divine sustenance, human character, and the call to righteous living.
TRV