The Hebrew word tsâʻar, represented by H6819, is a primitive root meaning to be small, i.e. (figuratively) ignoble; be brought low, little one, be small. Though it appears only 3 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible, it conveys a significant concept of being diminished in status, honor, or importance.
In its biblical usage, H6819 illustrates a state of being made insignificant. In a promise of restoration, the LORD declares through Jeremiah that His people will be multiplied and glorified, stating they "shall not be small" Jeremiah 30:19. Conversely, the word depicts a state of humbling in Job, where a man's sons are "brought low" by circumstances he cannot perceive Job 14:21. The term is also used to identify a specific group, "the little ones," upon whom the LORD turns His hand after the shepherd is struck Zechariah 13:7.
Several related words help clarify the concept of being small or diminished:
- H6810 tsâʻîyr: This word is derived from H6819 and means little, few, young, or ignoble. It is used to describe being the "least" in a family Judges 6:15, the "younger" of two brothers Genesis 25:23, or a nation that is "little" among others Micah 5:2.
- H4591 mâʻaṭ: Meaning to lessen, diminish, or be few, this word appears alongside H6819 in Jeremiah 30:19, where the promise that the people will "not be small" is preceded by the promise that they will "not be few."
The theological weight of H6819 is found in its contrast between divine action and human condition.
- Humiliation and Frailty: The word can describe a state of being humbled or brought into a position of weakness. This is seen when Job's sons are "brought low," highlighting human frailty Job 14:21, and when the "little ones" are subject to divine action after a crisis Zechariah 13:7.
- Promise of Restoration: The state of being "small" is presented as a condition that God can reverse. His power and favor are demonstrated by making His people numerous and honored, promising they "shall not be small" as part of their restoration and glorification Jeremiah 30:19.
In summary, H6819 is a concise but potent term that defines a state of being made low or insignificant. While its occurrences are few, they effectively illustrate both the vulnerability associated with being humbled and the divine power to exalt and glorify. The word captures a powerful dynamic between a state of ignobility and the promise of divine reversal.
TRV