### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term צֹרֶךְ (tsôrek, `{{H6878}}`) derives from an unused root that fundamentally conveys the concept of "need" or "necessity." Its semantic range is remarkably narrow, directly pointing to that which is required, essential, or lacking. Unlike words that might imply a deep emotional longing or a complex philosophical deficiency, tsôrek refers to a practical and tangible requirement. It denotes a want that must be met for a specific purpose or sustenance. The singular nature of its root meaning suggests a straightforward and undifferentiated understanding of "need" within the biblical lexicon.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word צֹרֶךְ (tsôrek, `{{H6878}}`) appears only once in the entire Masoretic Text, found in [[2 Chronicles 2:16]] (verse 15 in some English translations). This singular occurrence is within the context of the correspondence between King Solomon of Israel and King Hiram of Tyre concerning the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem. Solomon has requested cedar and cypress timber from Hiram, and Hiram responds, "And we will cut down as much timber as you need (כָּל־צָרְכֶּךָ) from Lebanon and bring it to you as rafts by sea to Joppa, and you yourselves will carry it up to Jerusalem."
In this specific context, "tsôrek" refers to the practical provisions and materials necessary for the monumental task of building the house of the Lord. It is a pragmatic term for the supplies required to fulfill a divine commission. The verse highlights the logistical and material demands of such an undertaking, underscoring that even a divinely ordained project necessitates earthly resources. Hiram's promise to provide "all your needs" demonstrates a commitment to meeting the practical requirements for this sacred endeavor, showcasing the cooperation between nations for a purpose that ultimately served God's glory.
### Related Words & Concepts
While צֹרֶךְ (tsôrek, `{{H6878}}`) is unique in its singular occurrence, the concept of "need" permeates the Hebrew Bible through various other lexical and thematic expressions. Related terms often convey aspects of lack, want, or necessity. For instance, words like מַחְסוֹר (machsor, `{{H4270}}`), meaning "lack" or "want," as seen in [[Psalm 34:9]] ("those who fear Him lack nothing"), or חָסֵר (khaser, `{{H2637}}`), meaning "to lack" or "to diminish," as in [[Deuteronomy 2:7]] ("you have lacked nothing"), convey the state of being in need.
Conversely, the concept of divine provision and sufficiency is often expressed through words like דַּי (day, `{{H3499}}`), meaning "sufficiency" or "enough," or רַב (rav, `{{H7225}}`), meaning "abundance" or "much." The theological concept of God as the ultimate provider, who supplies all needs, is deeply embedded in passages such as [[Psalm 23:1]] ("The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want") or the narrative of manna in the wilderness ([[Exodus 16]]). Thus, while tsôrek is rare, it participates in a broader biblical discourse concerning human dependence and divine sustenance.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of צֹרֶךְ (tsôrek, `{{H6878}}`) in the context of Temple construction, though practical, carries profound theological significance. It underscores the principle that even the most sacred undertakings, commissioned by God, require tangible resources and human cooperation to be realized. God orchestrates the provision of these "needs" through various means, including foreign kings like Hiram, demonstrating His sovereignty over all creation and His ability to move hearts to accomplish His purposes.
More broadly, the concept of "need" in Scripture consistently points to human finitude and dependence upon God. Whether it be for daily sustenance, wisdom, or material for divine service, humanity is portrayed as inherently reliant on a divine source for fulfillment. The acknowledgement of need can be a catalyst for seeking God, fostering humility and trust. When God provides for these needs, it serves as a testament to His faithfulness, benevolence, and providential care for His people and His work. The very existence of "need" in the biblical narrative often serves to highlight God's character as the all-sufficient, gracious Provider.
### Summary
The Hebrew word צֹרֶךְ (tsôrek, `{{H6878}}`) is a rare term, appearing only once in the Old Testament, where it precisely denotes "need" or "necessity." Its sole occurrence in [[2 Chronicles 2:16]] refers to the practical timber requirements for building Solomon's Temple, illustrating the material provisions necessary for sacred work. Despite its rarity, tsôrek encapsulates a fundamental biblical theme: human dependence and God's faithful provision. It points to the reality that even divinely commissioned tasks have earthly "needs" that God, in His sovereignty, orchestrates to meet, thereby reinforcing His role as the ultimate Sustainer and Provider for His people and His purposes.
TRV