### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tsâmad**, represented by `{{H6775}}`, is a primitive root meaning to **link**, **fasten**, or **join**. It appears **5 times** in **5 unique verses** and is used both literally, as in girding an object, and figuratively, to describe serving an idol or mentally contriving deceit.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The primary use of `{{H6775}}` is to describe Israel's disastrous spiritual union with a false deity. In Numbers, Israel **joined** `{{H6775}}` himself unto Baalpeor `{{H1187}}`, which kindled the anger `{{H639}}` of the LORD `{{H3068}}` [[Numbers 25:3]]. This act was so severe that Moses `{{H4872}}` commanded the judges `{{H8199}}` of Israel `{{H3478}}` to slay `{{H2026}}` every man who was **joined** `{{H6775}}` to Baalpeor `{{H1187}}` [[Numbers 25:5]]. The Psalms later recount this event, stating they **joined** `{{H6775}}` themselves to Baalpeor and ate `{{H398}}` the sacrifices `{{H2077}}` of the dead `{{H4191}}` [[Psalms 106:28]]. In a different figurative sense, the word describes the intentional construction of falsehood, where a tongue `{{H3956}}` **frameth** `{{H6775}}` deceit `{{H4820}}` [[Psalms 50:19]]. Literally, it is used to describe a sword `{{H2719}}` **fastened** `{{H6775}}` upon Joab's `{{H3097}}` loins `{{H4975}}` [[2 Samuel 20:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of being linked or fastened:
* `{{H1187}}` **Baʻal Pᵉʻôwr** (Baal of Peor): This Moabitish deity is the object of the allegiance described in three of the five occurrences of `tsâmad`. Joining with Baal-Peor represents a profound act of apostasy for Israel `{{H3478}}` [[Numbers 25:3]].
* `{{H2296}}` **châgar** (to gird on): This word relates to the literal sense of `tsâmad`. In the account of Joab `{{H3097}}`, his garment `{{H4055}}` was **girded** `{{H2296}}` unto him, and upon it was a sword `{{H2719}}` **fastened** `{{H6775}}`, showing a direct contextual link between girding and fastening [[2 Samuel 20:8]].
* `{{H4820}}` **mirmâh** (deceit): This term is linked to the figurative, intellectual use of `tsâmad`. A tongue `{{H3956}}` that **frameth** `{{H6775}}` **deceit** `{{H4820}}` is one that actively constructs or joins together falsehoods [[Psalms 50:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6775}}` is significant and serves primarily as a warning.
* **Consequences of False Union:** The primary theological weight of `{{H6775}}` is its warning against improper spiritual alliances. To be **joined** to an idol like Baalpeor `{{H1187}}` is to forsake the LORD `{{H3068}}`, inviting divine anger `{{H639}}` and judgment ([[Numbers 25:3]], [[Numbers 25:5]]).
* **The Deliberate Framing of Evil:** In [[Psalms 50:19]], the word shows that sin is not just an act, but can be a deliberate construction. A tongue `{{H3956}}` that **frameth** `{{H6775}}` deceit `{{H4820}}` reveals a mind that actively links thoughts and words for a wicked purpose.
* **Attachment to Instruments of Violence:** The literal use of a **fastened** `{{H6775}}` sword `{{H2719}}` is not neutral; it occurs in the context of Joab's `{{H3097}}` treachery against Amasa `{{H6021}}` [[2 Samuel 20:8]]. This connects the word to being linked or girded with the tools of violence and guile.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6775}}` **tsâmad** is a specific and powerful verb for linking or fastening. Its significance extends beyond a simple physical connection, like a sword `{{H2719}}` to a belt [[2 Samuel 20:8]]. Figuratively, it serves as a stark warning about the spiritual act of **joining** oneself to false gods, an act which brought severe judgment upon Israel `{{H3478}}` [[Numbers 25:3]]. The word also illustrates the moral corruption of a heart that actively **frameth** `{{H6775}}` deceit `{{H4820}}`, demonstrating that what one is linked to—whether physically or spiritually—has profound consequences.
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