יָסַךְ (ya.sakh)
ya.sakh
to pour
H:VQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:V
Word Overview
The Hebrew verb yasakh describes the physical act of pouring liquid, specifically in the context of anointing. While it shares a general semantic field with other words for rubbing or applying oil, its core meaning is defined by the motion of pouring rather than just spreading. This distinction highlights the generosity and abundance of the substance being applied, suggesting a ritual where oil is poured over the head or body.
In Scripture, this word appears only once, in Exodus 29:7, during the consecration of Aaron and his sons as priests. The text specifies that Moses took the anointing oil and "poured" it on Aaron’s head. This unique usage emphasizes the solemnity of the office being established; the act is not merely cosmetic but a ceremonial marking of divine selection and sanctification.
The etymological link to pouring connects the physical ritual to its spiritual significance. By using a term that implies flow and coverage, the text underscores the completeness of the consecration. The oil covers the priest entirely from the head down, symbolizing the fullness of the Spirit’s presence required for holy service.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
In Exodus 29:7, we see Moses pouring oil over Aaron’s head to consecrate him as a priest. The Hebrew word used here, yasakh, means to pour out generously. It is not about rubbing or spreading a small amount, but about letting the oil flow freely and cover the one being set apart. This image reminds us that God’s calling often comes with an abundance of grace, not just a bare minimum.
When we think about our own lives, this act suggests that God desires to fill us completely. Just as the oil covered Aaron from head to toe, God’s Spirit seeks to saturate every part of who we are. It is a picture of total dedication and divine selection. We do not serve God with half-hearted efforts; He invites us into a relationship where His presence flows over us, making us holy and useful for His purposes.
Exodus 30:32 warns that this special oil was not to be poured on ordinary flesh, highlighting its sacred nature. This distinction teaches us to treat our time with God as something precious and set apart. Let us appreciate the fullness of what He offers, knowing that He pours out His love and Spirit upon us without reserve.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- it will be poured1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- יִיסָ֔ךְ1×
Key Verses
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Exodus 30:32
It shall not be poured on man’s flesh, and do not make any like it, according to its composition. It is holy. It shall be holy to you.
This verse prohibits pouring this specific holy oil on common flesh, emphasizing the unique sanctity of the anointing ritual.