from the same as צֵן; a vase (probably a vial tapering at the top); pot.
Transliteration:tsintseneth
Pronunciation:tsin-tseh'-neth
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma צִנְצֶנֶת (tsintseneth, `{{H6803}}`) is a rare term, appearing only once in the Hebrew Bible. Its base definition, derived from the same root as צֵן (tsen), describes "a vase (probably a vial tapering at the top); pot." This suggests a specific type of container, likely made of pottery or clay, characterized by a narrow opening or a shape that tapers towards the top. The term "vial" implies a relatively small vessel, suitable for holding a precious or limited quantity. The semantic range is thus confined to a particular form of container, distinguished by its shape and implied purpose for preservation or containment of specific items.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word צִנְצֶנֶת (tsintseneth, `{{H6803}}`) appears uniquely in the book of Exodus, in a pivotal moment concerning the miraculous provision of manna in the wilderness.
* **[[Exodus 16:33]]**: "And Moses said to Aaron, 'Take a pot (צִנְצֶנֶת) and put an omer of manna in it, and place it before the Lord to be kept for your generations.'"
In this context, the tsintseneth is specifically designated to hold an omer of manna, which was to be preserved as a perpetual memorial of God's faithful provision. The instruction to place it "before the Lord" signifies its sacred status and eventual placement within the Ark of the Covenant, alongside Aaron's staff that budded and the tablets of the Law (cf. [[Hebrews 9:4]]). The choice of this particular vessel, rather than a generic "pot" (e.g., `{{H3627}}` *keli*), may imply its suitability for long-term preservation, perhaps due to its tapering form allowing for better sealing or protection of the manna from the elements. This single occurrence imbues the tsintseneth with immense symbolic weight, far beyond its simple material composition.
### Related Words & Concepts
While צִנְצֶנֶת (tsintseneth, `{{H6803}}`) is unique, it relates to broader categories of vessels and sacred objects in the biblical narrative:
* **General Vessels:** Other Hebrew terms for containers include `{{H3627}}` (keli), a general word for vessel or article; `{{H5083}}` (nad), a skin bottle or jar; `{{H2789}}` (cheres), earthenware or pottery; and `{{H6377}}` (pak), a flask or vial, often for oil, which shares a similar small, specialized function. The tsintseneth fits within the broader category of vessels but is distinguished by its specific form and sacred purpose.
* **Manna:** The tsintseneth is inextricably linked to the manna, the miraculous bread from heaven (e.g., [[Exodus 16:15]]). The manna itself is a profound symbol of divine sustenance and God's care for His people.
* **Ark of the Covenant:** As the tsintseneth with the manna was placed "before the Lord," it ultimately resided within the Ark of the Covenant, the holiest object in Israel's worship, which also contained the tablets of the Law and Aaron's rod. This association elevates its status significantly.
* **Memorials and Testimonies:** The purpose of keeping the manna in the tsintseneth was as a "memorial for your generations" (לְמִשְׁמֶרֶת לְדֹרֹתֵיכֶם), aligning it with other biblical objects or acts designed to serve as enduring testimonies to God's works (e.g., twelve stones from the Jordan in [[Joshua 4:7]]).
### Theological Significance
The צִנְצֶנֶת (tsintseneth, `{{H6803}}`), despite its singular appearance, carries profound theological significance rooted in its unique role:
* **Divine Provision and Remembrance:** The primary theological function of the tsintseneth is to serve as a perpetual, tangible reminder of God's faithful and miraculous provision of manna to Israel in the wilderness. It testifies to His ability to sustain His people even in desolate circumstances, fostering trust and dependence.
* **Sacred Preservation of God's Gifts:** The command to preserve the perishable manna in a special vessel underscores the sacredness of God's gifts. It was not merely to be consumed but also to be remembered and revered as a sign of His covenant faithfulness. The very act of preserving it defied its natural decay, mirroring the miraculous nature of its initial appearance.
* **Symbol of Covenant Faithfulness:** Positioned within the Ark of the Covenant, the tsintseneth with the manna became part of the core symbols of God's covenant with Israel. It represented God's commitment to nourish and sustain His people, a physical testament to His enduring promises.
* **Anticipation of Christ:** From a New Testament perspective, the manna is often seen as a type of Christ, the true "bread from heaven" (e.g., [[John 6:32-35]]). In this light, the tsintseneth can be seen as a vessel holding a foretaste of the spiritual sustenance provided by Christ, who offers eternal life and satisfies the deepest hunger of the soul.
### Summary
The word צִנְצֶנֶת (tsintseneth, `{{H6803}}`) refers to a specific type of pot or vial, likely tapering at the top. Its sole appearance in [[Exodus 16:33]] establishes its critical role in preserving an omer of manna as a perpetual memorial. This seemingly ordinary vessel is thus elevated to profound theological significance, serving as a tangible symbol of God's miraculous provision, His covenant faithfulness, and the sacredness of His gifts to His people. Placed within the Ark of the Covenant, the tsintseneth stands as an enduring testimony to God's care, reminding generations of Israel's dependence on divine sustenance and foreshadowing the ultimate spiritual nourishment found in Christ.
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