אָצִיל (a.tsil)
a.tsil
chief
H:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-M
Word Overview
The noun a.tsil primarily denotes a corner or side, but in Scripture it carries a specific figurative weight: it refers to the "nobles" or "chief" individuals of a community. The sources suggest this meaning arises from the idea of these people as the "sides" or supporting pillars of society, much like the corners that define and hold up a structure.
This word appears only twice in the Hebrew Bible, both times in contexts of judgment against leadership. In Exodus 18:25, Moses appoints capable men to serve as judges over the people, acting as these "chiefs" or officials who handle smaller disputes. Later, in Isaiah 3:4-5, the prophet uses the term to describe a dire situation where children will rule and infants will oppress, highlighting that the expected "nobles" have failed.
Translators typically render a.tsil as "nobles," "officials," or "rulers." The term does not merely indicate rank but implies a role of responsibility. When Isaiah lists those who fall away, he includes these "chiefs" alongside priests and prophets, showing that social status did not guarantee moral integrity. The word reminds readers that leadership is defined by function and support for the community, not just by title.
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.tsil points to those who serve as the pillars of a community. It suggests that leadership is not about status, but about holding up others through wisdom and integrity. When Moses appointed judges in Exodus, he chose men who could bear the weight of responsibility for their neighbors. This reminds us that true influence comes from serving the needs of those around you.
Yet this word also carries a warning. In Isaiah, the fall of these 'chiefs' signals deep trouble for the whole nation. High position does not protect anyone from moral failure. We are called to examine our own roles, asking how we can support others with humility and care, rather than seeking power for its own sake.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ from/ remotest parts/ its1×
- [the] nobles of1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וּ/מֵ/אֲצִילֶ֖י/הָ1×
- אֲצִילֵי֙1×
Key Verses
-
Exodus 24:11
He didn’t lay his hand on the nobles of the children of Israel. They saw God, and ate and drank.
This verse highlights the privilege of seeing God without judgment, showing that true leadership involves drawing near to Him while remaining accountable to the community.
-
Isaiah 41:9
you whom I have taken hold of from the ends of the earth, and called from its corners, and said to you, ‘You are my servant. I have chosen you and have not cast you away.’
Although this verse uses a related root for 'corners,' it connects to the idea of being chosen and held by God, which underpins the responsibility of those in high places.