a primitive root; probably to look askant, i.e. (figuratively) be jealous; leap.
Transliteration:râtsad
Pronunciation:raw-tsad'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew verb רָצַד (râtsad, `{{H7520}}`) is a rare primitive root, appearing only once in the Masoretic Text. Its proposed semantic range encompasses "to look askant," "to be jealous," and "to leap." The primary interpretation, "to look askant," suggests a sidelong, suspicious, or envious glance, which naturally extends to the figurative meaning of "to be jealous." This connection is semantically coherent, as jealousy often manifests in such a gaze or disposition. The meaning "to leap" presents a distinct semantic possibility. Some scholars attempt to reconcile this by suggesting a rapid, agitated movement, perhaps indicative of intense emotion like envy or agitation, or even a sudden, predatory motion. However, the "jealousy" or "envy" interpretation, derived from "looking askant," is widely favored due to contextual clues and ancient translations. The root thus conveys a sense of intense, perhaps agitated or envious, observation directed at an object of desire or preeminence.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb רָצַד (râtsad, `{{H7520}}`) occurs uniquely in [[Psalm 68:16]]. The verse reads: "Why do you look askance, O mountains with many peaks, at the mount which God desired for His abode? Surely the LORD will dwell there forever."
In this poetic address, the psalmist personifies other grand mountains (often understood as the taller peaks of Bashan or Hermon) as casting envious or suspicious glances at Mount Zion. Mount Zion, though not the tallest, was divinely chosen as the site for God's dwelling place, the Temple. The rhetorical question "Why do you look askance?" (or "Why do you leap?") highlights the unique and unparalleled status of Zion. If interpreted as "to look askance" or "to be jealous," the imagery powerfully conveys the preeminence of Zion due to God's sovereign choice. The other mountains, despite their natural grandeur, are depicted as envious of Zion's unique theological distinction as the divine abode. The Septuagint's translation (ὑπολαμβάνετε, "you suspect" or "you envy") supports the interpretation of a jealous or envious gaze. If "to leap" were the primary meaning, it could suggest the mountains trembling or agitated in the presence of God's chosen mount, but the "jealousy" interpretation provides a richer and more coherent poetic meaning within the context of divine election.
### Related Words & Concepts
Given the singular occurrence of רָצַד (râtsad, `{{H7520}}`), direct lexical cognates are not prominent. However, its semantic implications connect it to several broader biblical themes and concepts:
* **Envy and Jealousy:** The concept of envy is pervasive in the biblical narrative, often leading to sin and conflict (e.g., Cain and Abel, Joseph's brothers). Related Hebrew terms include קִנְאָה (qin'ah, `{{H7068}}`), which can denote both human envy and divine zealousness for holiness, and שִׂנְאָה (sin'ah, `{{H8130}}`), hatred, often a consequence of envy. The "evil eye," a concept of malevolent or envious gaze, is also present in ancient Near Eastern thought and implicitly linked to "looking askance."
* **Divine Election and Chosenness:** The context of [[Psalm 68:16]] centers on God's sovereign choice of Mount Zion. This theme is fundamental to Israelite theology, seen in God's election of Abraham, the nation of Israel, and specific individuals for divine service. The "jealousy" of other mountains underscores the unique and unmerited favor bestowed upon Zion.
* **Mountain Symbolism:** Mountains frequently serve as significant symbols in the Bible, representing strength, permanence, and sites of divine revelation or presence (e.g., Mount Sinai, Mount Carmel, Mount Zion itself). The portrayal of other mountains' רָצַד at Zion elevates Zion's status as the quintessential sacred mountain, chosen by God Himself.
### Theological Significance
The solitary appearance of רָצַד (râtsad, `{{H7520}}`) in [[Psalm 68:16]] carries profound theological weight, primarily illuminating the unique status of Mount Zion and the nature of God's divine election.
1. **Sovereignty of Divine Choice:** The rhetorical question of the psalmist highlights that God's choice of Zion was not based on its inherent physical superiority (as other mountains might be grander), but solely on His sovereign will and desire. This underscores God's freedom and authority in establishing His dwelling place and manifesting His presence. It teaches that divine favor is not earned but freely given.
2. **Exaltation of Zion as God's Abode:** By depicting other majestic mountains as "jealous" or "envious," the psalm powerfully exalts Mount Zion. It becomes the preeminent earthly symbol of God's presence, the center of His covenant with Israel, and the locus of His enduring kingdom. This spiritual superiority transcends any natural or humanly perceived greatness.
3. **Cosmic Acknowledgment of Divine Action:** The anthropomorphic portrayal of mountains expressing envy suggests a cosmic recognition of God's unique choices and actions. Even creation itself, in a poetic sense, acknowledges and responds to the unparalleled significance of God's chosen dwelling. This subtly reinforces the idea that God's plan and choices are recognized and, in some way, responded to by the entire created order.
4. **Assurance of God's Enduring Presence:** The concluding phrase, "Surely the LORD will dwell there forever," provides a powerful theological affirmation. The envy of other mountains, if anything, serves to highlight the certainty and permanence of God's presence in Zion, assuring the faithful of His unwavering commitment to His chosen place and people.
### Summary
The Hebrew verb רָצַד (râtsad, `{{H7520}}`), though appearing only once in the biblical text at [[Psalm 68:16]], is a significant term. Its core meaning, "to look askant" or "to be jealous," describes the envious gaze of other majestic mountains directed at Mount Zion. This vivid imagery serves to underscore the profound theological truth of God's sovereign and unassailable choice of Zion as His permanent dwelling place. The word thus highlights the unparalleled exaltation of Mount Zion, not by its own merit, but solely through God's divine election. It conveys a sense of cosmic acknowledgment of God's unique actions and provides assurance of His enduring presence, making this rare word a powerful contributor to the psalm's celebration of divine majesty and faithfulness.
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