the same as צִיר; a form (of beauty; as if pressed out, i.e. carved); hence, an (idolatrous) image; beauty, idol.
Transliteration:tsîyr
Pronunciation:tseer
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word `{{H6736}}` (צִיר, *tsîyr*) carries a nuanced semantic range rooted in the concept of something "pressed out" or "carved." Its primary definition points to a "form" or "beauty," suggesting a skillfully crafted object. This initial sense implies an aesthetic quality, something shaped with precision. However, the dominant biblical usage of `{{H6736}}` shifts this meaning dramatically, applying it almost exclusively to an "idolatrous image" or "idol." Thus, a word that could denote artistic beauty becomes firmly associated with objects of false worship, highlighting a profound subversion of its potential positive connotation. This duality is critical: the word describes a physical object, but its theological weight is determined by its purpose and the object of its worship.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The occurrences of `{{H6736}}` in the Hebrew Bible are few but highly significant, consistently appearing in contexts that condemn idolatry.
In [[Isaiah 45:16]], the prophet declares, "They shall be ashamed and also confounded, all of them; they shall go away together in confusion who are makers of idols (צִיר)." Here, `{{H6736}}` unequivocally refers to man-made objects of worship, linking their creators to shame and confusion. The context is a divine pronouncement of judgment against those who fashion and trust in false gods, contrasting their futility with the omnipotence and singular nature of Yahweh. The "makers of idols" are destined for disgrace, underscoring the utter worthlessness of their creations.
The most prominent instance of `{{H6736}}` is found in [[Daniel 3:1]]: "King Nebuchadnezzar made an image (צִיר) of gold, whose height was sixty cubits and its breadth six cubits. He set it up on the plain of Dura, in the province of Babylon." This colossal golden statue, erected for universal worship under threat of death, is explicitly called a tsîyr. This passage vividly illustrates the human attempt to create a tangible object of absolute devotion, a direct challenge to the worship of the one true God. The narrative that follows, with Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego's refusal to bow, powerfully demonstrates the conflict between genuine faith and the worship of a tsîyr. In both instances, `{{H6736}}` denotes a physical representation made by human hands, intended to receive worship, and unequivocally condemned as an idol.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of `{{H6736}}` is rich, particularly in its relationship to other terms for idols and its potential connection to a homograph.
The Strong's definition notes that `{{H6736}}` is "the same as צִיר," referring to `{{H6735}}`. `{{H6735}}` also transliterated as *tsîyr*, means "pain," "pangs," or "anguish," often associated with childbirth. This connection is fascinating: while `{{H6736}}` denotes a "carved image" (from "pressed out" or "shaped"), `{{H6735}}` conveys the "pressure" or "grip" of pain. This homographic relationship, if not merely coincidental, could subtly suggest the spiritual anguish, futility, and destructive consequences inherent in the worship of idols.
Other Hebrew words for "idol" or "image" include:
* `{{H457}}` (*ʾĕlîl*): Often translated as "worthless" or "non-existent god," emphasizing the emptiness of idols.
* `{{H6090}}` (*ʿāṣāb*): Referring to an "image" or "idol," sometimes linked to the idea of "grief" or "pain" (from a root meaning "to labor" or "to grieve"), further echoing the potential link to `{{H6735}}`.
* `{{H6456}}` (*pesel*): A common term for a "carved image" or "graven image," highlighting the human act of shaping.
* `{{H8542}}` (*tĕrâpîm*): Often denoting "household idols" or "cultic images."
Conceptually, `{{H6736}}` is deeply intertwined with themes of idolatry, the futility of human-made gods, the exclusive sovereignty of Yahweh, and the divine prohibition against graven images (e.g., [[Exodus 20:4]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H6736}}` is profound, serving as a stark reminder of the biblical condemnation of idolatry. The word, though potentially denoting a skillfully crafted "form" or "beauty," is consistently deployed to represent an object of false worship. This transformation underscores a critical theological point: anything created by human hands, no matter how magnificent or aesthetically pleasing, cannot possess divine attributes or be worthy of worship. To elevate a tsîyr to the status of a god is to commit an egregious affront against the true God, who is uncreated, transcendent, and incomparable.
The instances of `{{H6736}}` in Scripture highlight the practical implications of idolatry. In [[Isaiah 45:16]], the makers of tsîyr are promised shame and confusion, reflecting the ultimate futility and disgrace that awaits those who place their trust in lifeless objects. The narrative in Daniel 3, centered on Nebuchadnezzar's golden tsîyr, presents a direct theological challenge: will one worship the creation of man or the Creator of all? The unwavering stand of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego against the tsîyr epitomizes faithfulness to God in the face of immense pressure, demonstrating that true worship demands exclusive devotion.
Furthermore, the potential semantic overlap with `{{H6735}}` ("pain" or "pangs") subtly enriches its theological weight. If there is a shared etymological root or a deliberate homographic play, it could suggest that the worship of tsîyr (idols) inevitably leads to spiritual anguish, suffering, and separation from the life-giving God. Idolatry, therefore, is not merely a theological error but a pathway to spiritual barrenness and pain.
### Summary
The Hebrew word `{{H6736}}` (צִיר, *tsîyr*) primarily denotes a "carved image" or "idol," stemming from a root associated with "pressing" or "shaping." While it can conceptually refer to a "form of beauty," its consistent biblical usage in [[Isaiah 45:16]] and [[Daniel 3:1]] applies exclusively to objects of false worship. In these contexts, tsîyr represents human-made constructs that usurp the rightful place of God, leading to shame and judgment for their makers and worshippers. The word stands in stark contrast to the living God, emphasizing the futility and spiritual danger inherent in idolatry. Its fascinating homographic relationship with `{{H6735}}` ("pain" or "pangs") may subtly underscore the destructive and sorrowful consequences of turning from the Creator to created things. Ultimately, `{{H6736}}` serves as a potent biblical reminder of God's exclusive claim to worship and the ultimate disgrace awaiting those who bow before lifeless idols.