### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tsâʻîyr**, represented by `{{H6810}}`, signifies that which is **little**, **young**, **ignoble**, or **few**. It appears **22 times** across **22 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning extends across multiple domains, including age, numerical quantity, and social value or rank.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H6810}}` is frequently used to establish a contrast between the younger and the elder, often subverting expectations of birthright and status. This is seen in the prophecy given to Rebekah, where "the elder shall serve the **younger**" [[Genesis 25:23]]. The term also denotes a position of humility or insignificance, as when Gideon refers to himself as "the **least** in my father's house" [[Judges 6:15]] or when the prophet describes Bethlehem Ephratah as being "**little** among the thousands of Judah" [[Micah 5:2]]. Furthermore, it can describe the youngest child in a family, whose fate is tied to a prophetic curse and its fulfillment ([[Joshua 6:26]], [[1 Kings 16:34]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concepts of age, size, and status associated with `{{H6810}}`:
* `{{H1060}}` **bᵉkôwr** (firstborn; eldest): This term is the direct counterpart to `{{H6810}}` in contexts of birth order. In a pivotal moment, Jacob intentionally places his right hand on Ephraim, "who was the **younger**," instead of Manasseh, the **firstborn** [[Genesis 48:14]].
* `{{H1067}}` **bᵉkîyrâh** (the eldest daughter): The feminine equivalent of firstborn, this word is used in direct contrast to `{{H6810}}` when Laban explains that custom forbids giving the **younger** daughter in marriage before the **firstborn** [[Genesis 29:26]].
* `{{H7227}}` **rab** (abundant; elder; great): Often translated as "elder," this word stands in direct opposition to "younger." The divine reversal of natural order is captured in the declaration that the **elder** (rab) will serve the **younger** (tsâʻîyr) [[Genesis 25:23]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6810}}` is significant, highlighting God's tendency to work through the seemingly weak and insignificant.
* **Divine Election:** The word is central to narratives where God chooses the younger sibling over the firstborn, overturning human customs of primogeniture to fulfill His sovereign plan. This pattern is established with Jacob and Esau [[Genesis 25:23]] and continued with Ephraim and Manasseh [[Genesis 48:14]].
* **Strength from Smallness:** God promises to make the small great. The "little" town of Bethlehem is chosen to be the birthplace of Israel's future ruler [[Micah 5:2]], and the Lord declares that "a **small one**" shall become a strong nation [[Isaiah 60:22]].
* **Humility Before God:** The term is used by individuals to express their lowliness and dependence on God. Gideon, Saul, and the psalmist all identify themselves as the "least" or "small," yet they are chosen or valued by God ([[Judges 6:15]], [[1 Samuel 9:21]], [[Psalms 119:141]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6810}}` is a versatile term that moves beyond a simple definition of youth or smallness. It is a foundational word for understanding a key biblical theme: God's power is made perfect in weakness. From family dynamics where the **younger** is elevated, to national prophecies where a **little** town gains prominence, `{{H6810}}` consistently illustrates a divine principle where the last become first, and the seemingly insignificant are used to achieve God's magnificent purposes.
TRV