from אָצַל (in the sense of joining); a side; (as a preposition) near; at, (hard) by, (from) (beside), near (unto), toward, with. See also בֵּית הָאֵצֶל.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼêtsel**, represented by `{{H681}}`, is a preposition signifying proximity. It is defined as **near**, **at**, **by**, or **beside**. Its meaning derives from a root sense of joining, emphasizing being on the side of or close to something or someone. It appears **60 times** across **57 unique verses** in the Bible, making it a common term for describing spatial relationships.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H681}}` is used to establish location in a variety of contexts. It frequently specifies the placement of objects within sacred spaces, such as items being placed **beside** the altar of the LORD ([[Leviticus 6:10]], [[2 Kings 12:9]]). The word also defines geographical closeness, as seen with Naboth's vineyard, which was **hard by** the palace of King Ahab [[1 Kings 21:1]]. In personal interactions, it indicates physical nearness, such as when Potiphar's wife tempted Joseph to lie **by her** [[Genesis 39:10]] or when the queen sat **by** the king [[Nehemiah 2:6]]. It is also used in visionary accounts to describe proximity to the supernatural, like the wheels **by** the living creatures in Ezekiel's vision [[Ezekiel 1:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context in which **ʼêtsel** is used:
* `{{H4196}}` **mizbêach** (altar): As a central object in worship, the **altar** is frequently the reference point for proximity. The word `{{H681}}` is often used to describe where offerings or other items are placed in relation to it, such as ashes being put **beside** the altar [[Leviticus 6:10]].
* `{{H1004}}` **bayith** (house): This word for **house** or palace often serves as a landmark. The nearness of property is established using `{{H681}}`, as when Ahab desires Naboth's vineyard because it is near unto his **house** [[1 Kings 21:2]].
* `{{H5975}}` **ʻâmad** (to stand): This verb is often paired with `{{H681}}` to describe the position of a person or creature. For example, after the prophet was slain, both the lion and the ass were **standing** by the carcase [[1 Kings 13:28]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H681}}` lies in its function of establishing precise spatial relationships which carry contextual importance.
* **Defining Sacred Space:** The word is crucial for describing the layout of holy areas. By specifying that a chest was set **beside** the altar [[2 Kings 12:9]] or that certain chambers were **by** others in the LORD's house [[Jeremiah 35:4]], it helps construct an ordered and sanctified environment.
* **Establishing Narrative Setting:** In stories, `{{H681}}` grounds the action in a physical location. It is used to show David hiding **by** the stone Ezel [[1 Samuel 20:19]], people talking **by** the walls of their houses [[Ezekiel 33:30]], and an adulterous woman lying in wait **at** every corner [[Proverbs 7:12]].
* **Illustrating Divine Proximity:** In prophetic visions, the term conveys the nearness of the divine or its agents. An angel comes **near** to Daniel [[Daniel 8:17]], and the man in linen stood **beside** the wheels in Ezekiel's vision [[Ezekiel 10:6]], highlighting the imminence of God's message.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H681}}` is a fundamental preposition of location that provides critical context throughout the scriptures. While not a theological term in itself, its consistent use is vital for understanding the physical and relational dynamics in both narrative and law. From the specific arrangement of items **beside** the holy altar to the dangerous closeness of a tempter, **ʼêtsel** illustrates how the language of proximity is essential for building scenes, defining sacred order, and conveying the nearness of God's presence.
TRV