### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tsâphîyr**, represented by `{{H6842}}`, means a **male goat** or **(he) goat**. Its root suggests a "prancing" motion, and it appears **6 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. This term is used specifically to denote a male goat, often in contexts of sacrifice or significant prophetic symbolism.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H6842}}` carries two distinct applications. It is prominently featured in the book of Daniel as a powerful prophetic symbol. An advancing **he goat** with a notable horn is used to represent "the king of Grecia" [[Daniel 8:21]], whose power grows immensely before its great horn is broken [[Daniel 8:8]]. The imagery of this **goat** coming from the west without touching the ground signifies a swift and dominant conquest [[Daniel 8:5]]. The word is also used in a liturgical context, where **he goats** are specified as animals for a sin offering to God. This is seen when the returning exiles offer twelve **he goats** [[Ezra 8:35]] and during King Hezekiah's reforms when seven **he goats** are offered for the kingdom and the sanctuary [[2 Chronicles 29:21]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words for sacrificial animals appear in the same contexts, providing a broader understanding of the Hebrew sacrificial system:
* `{{H352}}` **ʼayil** (ram): From a root meaning strength, this term refers to a **ram** but can also mean a chief or a strong tree. Rams are frequently mentioned as burnt offerings [[Job 42:8]] and are a central part of the sacrificial requirements [[Leviticus 5:15]].
* `{{H3532}}` **kebes** (lamb, sheep): Defined as a young **ram**, this word is consistently used for lambs in sacrifices, such as the burnt offerings for the new months [[Numbers 28:11]] and offerings for purification [[Leviticus 14:10]].
* `{{H5795}}` **ʻêz** ((she) goat, kid): This term for a **she-goat** is often used in conjunction with `{{H6842}}`, as seen in the phrase "he goat" [[Daniel 8:8]]. It is also used to specify the type of animal for a sin offering [[Leviticus 9:3]] and is listed among animals suitable for sacrifice [[Leviticus 22:19]].
* `{{H6499}}` **par** (bullock, calf, ox): This word denotes a young **bullock**, an animal of significant value in offerings. Bullocks are listed alongside rams and he goats in large-scale sacrifices ([[Ezra 8:35]], [[2 Chronicles 29:21]]) and are required for sin offerings and atonement [[Numbers 8:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6842}}` is demonstrated through its specific roles in scripture.
* **Prophetic Symbolism:** The use of the **he goat** in Daniel is a primary example of how God uses elements of the natural world to convey prophetic truth. The goat does not merely represent an animal but the entire "king of Grecia," with its horns signifying successive rulers and the transfer of power [[Daniel 8:21]].
* **National Atonement:** In Ezra and 2 Chronicles, the **he goats** are offered as a "sin offering" specifically on behalf of larger communities: "all Israel" [[Ezra 8:35]] and "for the kingdom, and for the sanctuary, and for Judah" [[2 Chronicles 29:21]]. This highlights its role in corporate repentance and purification.
* **Connotations of Power:** The description of the **he goat** in Daniel's vision emphasizes its speed, strength, and aggressive dominance [[Daniel 8:5]]. This connects the animal itself to the characteristics of the kingdom it represents, illustrating a theme of worldly power and conquest.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6842}}` is a specific and potent term. While used infrequently, it is vital to understanding key biblical passages. It functions literally as a designated animal for sin offerings that secure atonement for the nation and symbolically as a powerful image of a dominant world empire in prophetic revelation. The word **tsâphîyr** thus carries layers of meaning, from its role in the temple rituals to its depiction of the rise and fall of kings on the world stage.
TRV