feminine of צֵן; a hook (as pointed); also a (large) shield (as if guarding by prickliness); also cold (as piercing); buckler, cold, hook, shield, target.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tsinnâh**, represented by `{{H6793}}`, holds several distinct meanings, including a large **shield**, a **hook**, and **cold**. It appears **22 times** across **20 unique verses**. While most often translated as a form of defensive armor like a **shield**, **buckler**, or **target**, its usage also extends to the imagery of a piercing **hook** used for capture and the piercing sensation of **cold**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its military context, **tsinnâh** refers to a large shield used by warriors. Soldiers from the tribes of Gad, Judah, and Naphtali are described as men who could handle a **shield** `{{H6793}}` in battle ([[1 Chronicles 12:8]], [[1 Chronicles 12:24]], [[1 Chronicles 12:34]]). It is also listed among the armaments of foreign armies [[Ezekiel 23:24]] and as part of the massive weaponry of Goliath's shield-bearer [[1 Samuel 17:7]]. Figuratively, it symbolizes God's protective favor and truth ([[Psalms 5:12]], [[Psalms 91:4]]). In a completely different context, it is used to describe an instrument of judgment, with God promising to take people away with **hooks** [[Amos 4:2]]. Lastly, it describes the refreshing nature of **cold** in a simile found in Proverbs [[Proverbs 25:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concepts of weaponry, protection, and capture:
* `{{H4043}}` **mâgên** (shield): This word refers to a smaller **shield** or buckler and is often used alongside **tsinnâh** to provide a complete picture of defensive gear. For instance, David calls on God to "Take hold of **shield** (mâgên) and **buckler** (tsinnâh)" [[Psalms 35:2]], and invading armies are described with both **bucklers** (tsinnâh) and **shields** (mâgên) [[Ezekiel 38:4]].
* `{{H7420}}` **rômach** (spear): This term for a **spear** or lance is frequently paired with **tsinnâh**, representing the combination of offensive and defensive weaponry. Warriors are described as those who could handle **spear** and **shield** [[2 Chronicles 25:5]], and cities were equipped with **shields** and **spears** for defense [[2 Chronicles 11:12]].
* `{{H2397}}` **châch** (hook): This word for a **hook** or ring is used in contexts of control and judgment, similar to one of the meanings of **tsinnâh**. God declares He will put **hooks** (châch) into the jaws of the armies of Gog, an army also equipped with **bucklers** (tsinnâh) [[Ezekiel 38:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6793}}` is demonstrated through its varied metaphorical uses.
* **Divine Protection and Truth:** The most prominent theological use of **tsinnâh** is as a metaphor for God's safeguarding presence. His favor surrounds the righteous like a **shield** [[Psalms 5:12]], and His truth serves as a **shield** and buckler, offering spiritual defense to those who trust in Him [[Psalms 91:4]].
* **Sovereign Judgment:** The meaning of **tsinnâh** as a **hook** illustrates God's absolute authority to execute judgment. In Amos, God warns that He will take away the disobedient with **hooks**, a stark image of irresistible capture and exile [[Amos 4:2]].
* **Human and Divine Strength in Conflict:** The word is frequently used to describe the armaments of Israelite and enemy soldiers, such as the shield-bearer who went before Goliath [[1 Samuel 17:41]]. This highlights the reality of human military might, which is ultimately shown to be insufficient without divine backing. The call to "Order ye the buckler and **shield**" [[Jeremiah 46:3]] is a command for human preparation for a battle ultimately decided by the Lord.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6793}}` **tsinnâh** is a multifaceted term that primarily denotes a large, protective **shield**. It serves as a literal piece of armor in military accounts and as a powerful symbol for God's favor and truth. Beyond its defensive meaning, it also functions as an image of a piercing **hook**, representing divine judgment, and as a descriptor for the piercing sensation of **cold**. Through these varied uses, **tsinnâh** encapsulates themes of protection, sovereignty, and judgment.
TRV