from אָצַל (in its primary sense of uniting); a joint of the hand (i.e. knuckle); also (according to some) a party-wall (Ezekiel 41:8); (arm) hole, great.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼatstsîyl**, represented by `{{H679}}`, carries multiple meanings depending on its context, including a joint of the hand, an **armhole**, or a **great** measurement. It is derived from a root meaning to unite. This specific term appears only **3 times** in **3 unique verses**, making each occurrence distinct in its application.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H679}}` is used in both literal and descriptive ways. Two instances refer to the literal **armholes** of a person. In a prophecy against false prophetesses, the Lord GOD (`{{H136}}`, `{{H3069}}`) decries those who sew pillows to all **armholes** to hunt souls [[Ezekiel 13:18]]. In a narrative of deliverance, Ebed-melech `{{H5663}}` instructs Jeremiah `{{H3414}}` to place rags under his **armholes** to be rescued from a dungeon [[Jeremiah 38:12]]. The third use is architectural, describing the foundations of the temple side chambers as being a full reed of six **great** cubits [[Ezekiel 41:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which `{{H679}}` is found:
* `{{H3027}}` **yâd** (hand): This word for **hand** is used alongside `{{H679}}` to physically locate the "armholes," linking the term to the arm and its joints ([[Jeremiah 38:12]], [[Ezekiel 13:18]]).
* `{{H6679}}` **tsûwd** (to hunt): The use of pillows on armholes is part of a practice to **hunt** souls, a key action condemned by God in the prophecy of Ezekiel [[Ezekiel 13:18]].
* `{{H1094}}` **bᵉlôwʼ** (old): These **old** rags, along with rotten ones, were the materials Ebed-melech provided to place under Jeremiah's armholes for his rescue [[Jeremiah 38:12]].
* `{{H7070}}` **qâneh** (reed): This measuring **reed** is used to define the size of the "six great cubits" in Ezekiel's vision, providing a specific dimension for the temple's foundations [[Ezekiel 41:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H679}}` is demonstrated through its varied applications:
* **Condemnation of Deceptive Comfort:** In Ezekiel's prophecy, the word is part of a divine **woe** `{{H1945}}` against those who use objects of comfort on **armholes** to ensnare people, highlighting God's judgment on practices that provide false security to hunt the **souls** `{{H5315}}` of His people [[Ezekiel 13:18]].
* **A Means of Physical Deliverance:** The term is central to the rescue of the prophet Jeremiah. The practical instruction to cushion his **armholes** `{{H679}}` illustrates a tangible act of mercy and the preservation of God's servant [[Jeremiah 38:12]].
* **Descriptor of Divine Grandeur:** When used to describe the temple's foundations, `{{H679}}` as "great" points to the scale and precise design of God's holy **house** `{{H1004}}`. This highlights the majesty and intentionality of the sacred space shown in the vision [[Ezekiel 41:8]].
### Summary
In summary, though rare, `{{H679}}` **ʼatstsîyl** is a versatile word with specific applications. It shifts from a literal anatomical term in contexts of both spiritual deception and physical rescue to a descriptor of architectural scale in a divine vision of the temple. Its usage demonstrates how a single Hebrew word can convey different meanings, contributing to our understanding of prophetic warnings, acts of compassion, and the grandeur of God's design.
TRV