### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tsêydâh**, represented by `{{H6720}}`, refers to **food**, **provision**, or **victuals**. It is the feminine form of `tsayid` and appears **10 times** across **10 unique verses** in the Bible. It often denotes sustenance prepared for a specific purpose or journey, and its renderings include meat, provision, venison, and victuals.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6720}}` is frequently associated with supplies for a journey. Joseph commanded that his brothers be given **provision** for the way as they returned to their father ([[Genesis 42:25]], [[Genesis 45:21]]). Similarly, Joshua commanded the people to prepare **victuals** before crossing the Jordan to possess the land [[Joshua 1:11]]. The word is also used to describe a lack of sustenance, as when the Israelites were thrust out of Egypt and had not prepared for themselves any **victual** [[Exodus 12:39]]. In one instance, it is paired with its masculine counterpart to describe the **venison** Esau was instructed to hunt [[Genesis 27:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the scope of provision and sustenance:
* `{{H6718}}` **tsayid**: As the masculine form from which `{{H6720}}` is derived, this word means "the chase; also game (thus taken); (generally) lunch (especially for a journey)." It is used to describe Esau as a cunning **hunter** [[Genesis 25:27]] and for the **venison** Jacob served to Isaac [[Genesis 27:19]].
* `{{H3899}}` **lechem**: This is a general term for "food... especially bread, or grain (for making it)." Its relationship with `{{H6720}}` is highlighted in Psalms, where God sent **meat** `{{H6720}}` to the full after man ate angels' **food** `{{H3899}}` [[Psalms 78:25]].
* `{{H3559}}` **kûwn**: A verb meaning to "prepare... provide, make provision." This action is directly linked to the noun in the command to "Prepare `{{H3559}}` you victuals `{{H6720}}`" before a major military and spiritual crossing [[Joshua 1:11]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{H6720}}` carries significant practical and theological weight, often illustrating the connection between preparation and purpose.
* **Sustenance for a Mission:** The word is repeatedly used for provisions required for a specific task, such as possessing the promised land [[Joshua 1:11]], sustaining Gideon's chosen army [[Judges 7:8]], or supplying troops for a military campaign [[Judges 20:10]].
* **Divine and Human Agency:** While humans are commanded to prepare or take **victuals** ([[Joshua 1:11]], [[Joshua 9:11]]), the ultimate source of provision is often God. He is the one who "sent them **meat** `{{H6720}}` to the full" in the wilderness [[Psalms 78:25]].
* **A Marker of Urgency:** The presence or absence of **victual** can signify the nature of an event. The lack of prepared **victual** during the Exodus highlights the haste of their departure [[Exodus 12:39]], while its careful preparation marks the deliberate start of the conquest of Canaan.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6720}}` is more than a generic term for food. It specifically points to **provision** or **victuals** set aside for a particular journey, mission, or circumstance. It underscores themes of foresight, readiness, and reliance, showing how both human preparation and divine supply are essential in the unfolding of God's plans. From a simple meal for a journey to the sustenance for an entire nation on the move, **tsêydâh** captures the essential nature of being provided for.
TRV