### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼetsbaʻ**, represented by `{{H676}}`, refers to a **finger** or **toe**. Derived from a root meaning to grasp or seize, it appears 32 times across 28 unique verses. It is used both literally for human digits and figuratively to represent divine power, creative work, and human action.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In Scripture, `{{H676}}` is used in diverse contexts. It signifies divine power, as when the magicians declare a plague to be the "**finger** of God" [[Exodus 8:19]] or when the Ten Commandments are described as "written with the **finger** of God" [[Exodus 31:18]]. It is also central to priestly rituals, where a priest's **finger** is used to apply blood for sanctification and atonement [[Leviticus 8:15]]. Figuratively, it can represent a gesture of scorn [[Isaiah 58:9]] or be used for nonverbal communication [[Proverbs 6:13]]. The term is also used literally, as in the description of a giant from Gath with six **fingers** and six **toes** [[2 Samuel 21:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and context of **ʼetsbaʻ**:
* `{{H3027}}` **yâd** (hand): As a part of the hand, `{{H676}}` is often mentioned alongside **yâd** to describe human action, such as preparing for battle [[Psalms 144:1]] or creating idols with one's own hands and **fingers** [[Isaiah 2:8]].
* `{{H1818}}` **dâm** (blood): In many Levitical laws, the priest's **finger** is the instrument for applying sacrificial blood to the altar, linking the digit directly to the act of purification and atonement [[Leviticus 8:15]].
* `{{H7272}}` **regel** (foot): The word `{{H676}}` is used for **toe** in parallel with **finger**, highlighting its dual meaning. This is seen in the description of a man of great stature who had six **fingers** on each hand and six **toes** on each foot [[1 Chronicles 20:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H676}}` is demonstrated in several ways:
* **Divine Agency:** The phrase "the **finger** of God" demonstrates immense power executed with minimal effort. It signifies God's direct and personal involvement, whether in creating the heavens [[Psalms 8:3]], delivering plagues [[Exodus 8:19]], or writing His holy law on stone tablets [[Deuteronomy 9:10]].
* **Sacred Intermediation:** In Levitical rituals, the priest's **finger** acts as the sacred point of contact. By applying blood `{{H1818}}` to the altar `{{H4196}}` and the mercy seat `{{H3727}}`, the **finger** becomes the instrument through which sanctification and reconciliation are physically administered [[Leviticus 16:14]].
* **Moral Responsibility:** The use of **fingers** is tied to human moral choices. They can be used for evil, such as creating idols [[Isaiah 2:8]], pointing in scorn [[Isaiah 58:9]], or being defiled with iniquity [[Isaiah 59:3]]. Conversely, they can be used for good, by symbolically binding God's commands to them [[Proverbs 7:3]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H676}}` extends beyond its simple anatomical definition of a **finger** or **toe**. It serves as a powerful symbol in Scripture, illustrating the contrast between the creative "**finger** of God" [[Exodus 31:18]] and the human **fingers** that can either craft idols [[Isaiah 2:8]] or be trained for battle [[Psalms 144:1]]. From its literal use in describing unique physical traits to its crucial role in the precise rituals of atonement, **ʼetsbaʻ** carries significant weight, representing divine power, human agency, and sacred duty.
TRV