from the same as צַמָּה; a noose (as fastening); figuratively, destruction; robber.
Transliteration:tsammîym
Pronunciation:tsam-meem'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term צַמִּים (tsammîym), Strong's number `{{H6782}}`, derives from the same root as צַמָּה (tsammah, `{{H6781}}`), which denotes a "veil" or "lock of hair," implying something that binds or covers. The core meaning of tsammîym is a "noose" or "snare," emphasizing an instrument of fastening, capture, or entrapment. This literal sense extends figuratively to encompass the *effect* of such a device, namely "destruction," and the *agent* who employs it, a "robber" or "gang of robbers." The semantic range thus conveys a sense of violent capture, ambush, and the ensuing ruin, often with an underlying connotation of treachery or predatory intent. It speaks to a swift, decisive, and often deadly act of seizing or destroying.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term צַמִּים (tsammîym) is notably rare in the Hebrew Bible, appearing prominently in [[Hosea 6:9]]. In this passage, the prophet Hosea denounces the severe moral corruption within the priestly class of Israel: "As troops of robbers wait for a man, so a company of priests murder on the way toward Shechem; they commit lewdness." Here, tsammîym is translated as "troops of robbers" or "gangs of murderers." The context reveals a profound perversion of their sacred office. Instead of guiding and protecting the people, these priests are depicted as predatory and violent, lying in wait to ambush and destroy, much like a band of brigands. The imagery evokes a sense of ambush, betrayal, and unrighteous violence, highlighting the shocking contrast between their divine calling and their wicked actions. The "noose" aspect of the word subtly suggests a cunning entrapment, not merely open assault, leading to the "destruction" of their victims.
### Related Words & Concepts
The connection to צַמָּה (tsammah, `{{H6781}}`), meaning "veil" or "lock of hair," points to the shared root idea of binding or restraint. While tsammah relates to adornment or concealment, tsammîym weaponizes the concept into an instrument of capture. Other Hebrew words for "snare" or "trap" include מוֹקֵשׁ (moqesh, `{{H4170}}`) and פַּח (pach, `{{H6341}}`), which often describe devices used by fowlers or hunters, or metaphorically, the traps of the wicked or the consequences of sin. Words related to "robber" or "plunderer" include גָּזַל (gazal, `{{H1590}}`, "to rob" or "to tear away") and שָׁדַד (shadad, `{{H7703}}`, "to devastate" or "to plunder"). The concept of tsammîym in [[Hosea 6:9]] aligns with broader biblical themes of injustice, violence, and the abuse of power, particularly when those in positions of authority act as predators rather than shepherds.
### Theological Significance
The use of tsammîym in [[Hosea 6:9]] carries profound theological weight. It serves as a stark indictment of spiritual leaders who have abandoned their covenant responsibilities and instead become agents of harm. The description of priests as "troops of robbers" underscores the depth of Israel's apostasy and moral decay. It reveals that the very individuals entrusted with upholding God's law and mediating His presence have become instruments of violence and destruction, preying upon the people they were meant to serve. This perversion of sacred office highlights the severity of their sin and the impending divine judgment. The imagery of a "noose" or "snare" can also be seen as a theological metaphor for the inescapable consequences of sin, where the perpetrators become ensnared by their own wickedness, leading to their ultimate "destruction." It emphasizes God's abhorrence of treachery and His demand for righteousness, especially from those who represent Him.
### Summary
The Hebrew word צַמִּים (tsammîym, `{{H6782}}`) carries the core meaning of a "noose" or "snare," extending figuratively to denote "destruction" and, by metonymy, a "robber" or "gang of robbers." Its singular significant occurrence in [[Hosea 6:9]] vividly portrays the moral corruption of the Israelite priesthood, who are condemned for acting as predatory "troops of robbers" rather than faithful servants. The word powerfully conveys the themes of violent ambush, treachery, and the perversion of sacred duty. Theologically, tsammîym serves as a severe condemnation of those who abuse their authority for personal gain and destructive ends, underscoring God's righteous judgment against such profound spiritual and moral decay.
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