אָחַז (a.chaz)
a.chaz
to grasp
H:VQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 58 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:V
Word Overview
The Hebrew verb a.chaz means to grasp, seize, or take hold of something with the hand. It describes a physical act of catching or holding onto an object or person, often implying that the grip is maintained to keep possession. In Exodus 4:4, Moses is commanded to reach out and take hold of his staff, illustrating this literal use. The word carries a sense of firmness, suggesting that once seized, the item is not easily released.
Beyond physical contact, a.chaz extends into metaphorical territory. It can describe emotions or states seizing a person, such as when terror takes hold of the inhabitants of Philistia in Exodus 15:14. Conversely, it can mean to be caught by fear, as seen in Job 18:20 where horror lays hold on the wicked. This dual usage highlights how the Hebrew mind linked physical grip with emotional or spiritual capture.
The term also appears in contexts of inheritance and land ownership. To take possession of a portion of land is to grasp it firmly as one’s own, a concept seen in Numbers 32:30 where the tribes of Reuben and Gad are told they will have their possessions if they fight alongside their brothers. This usage underscores the stability and permanence associated with holding onto what has been claimed.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Hebrew word a.chaz describes the firm act of grasping or taking hold of something. In the Bible, this physical grip often mirrors how God holds us or how we are meant to hold onto His promises. It is not a loose or casual touch but a secure hold that implies stability and possession.
When you read of Moses taking hold of his staff in Exodus 4:4, it shows obedience and readiness for God’s mission. Similarly, when terror takes hold of others in Exodus 15, it reminds us that our security comes not from circumstances but from the One who holds all things together. This word invites you to rest in the certainty that God’s grip on your life is firm and unbreakable.
Whether referring to land inheritance or emotional states, a.chaz teaches us about commitment. It encourages a faith that clings to God with confidence, knowing that what He claims as His own remains secure in His care.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 58 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ he took hold3×
- it has seized/ me2×
- it has seized2×
- drawn2×
- and/ they seized2×
- and/ have possessions2×
- you will take hold1×
- you take hold1×
- will they seize/ you1×
- to/ take hold1×
- to/ grasp1×
- to have hold1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וַ/יֹּאחֲז֣וּ2×
- וְ/יֹאחֵ֣ז2×
- תֶּאֱחֹ֣ז1×
- שֶׁ/נֶּֽאֱחָזִים֙1×
- שֶׁ/יֹּאחֵ֓ז1×
- נֹֽאחֲזוּ\־1×
- נֶאֱחַ֥ז1×
- מָאֳחָזִ֔ים1×
- מְאַחֵ֥ז1×
- לֶ֭/אֱחֹז1×
- לֶ/אֱחֹז֙1×
- יֹאחֵ֣ז1×
Key Verses
-
Exodus 4:4
Yahweh said to Moses, “Stretch out your hand, and take it by the tail.” He stretched out his hand, and took hold of it, and it became a rod in his hand.
Moses takes hold of the staff by the tail, demonstrating immediate obedience to God's command and readiness for divine action.
-
Genesis 25:26
After that, his brother came out, and his hand had hold on Esau’s heel. He was named Jacob. Isaac was sixty years old when she bore them.
Jacob’s hand holding Esau’s heel at birth foreshadows his lifelong struggle for position and blessing through human effort.
-
Exodus 15:14
The peoples have heard. They tremble. Pangs have taken hold of the inhabitants of Philistia.
Pangs taking hold of Philistia illustrates how God’s power can seize nations with fear, showing His sovereignty over history.
-
I Kings 1:51
Solomon was told, “Behold, Adonijah fears King Solomon; for, behold, he is hanging onto the horns of the altar, saying, ‘Let King Solomon swear to me first that he will not kill his servant with the sword.’”
Adonijah hanging onto the altar horns shows a desperate grasp for mercy and protection in the face of impending judgment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Hebrew word a.chaz mean?
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Why is this word important for understanding faith?
Every Occurrence (58 verses across 19 books)
Genesis 4 verses
Abraham lifted up his eyes, and looked, and saw that behind him was a ram caught in the thicket by his horns. Abraham…
Genesis 25:26After that, his brother came out, and his hand had hold on Esau’s heel. He was named Jacob. Isaac was sixty years old…
Genesis 34:10You shall dwell with us, and the land will be before you. Live and trade in it, and get possessions in it.”
Genesis 47:27Israel lived in the land of Egypt, in the land of Goshen; and they got themselves possessions therein, and were…