נָסַס (na.sas)
na.sas
to shine
H:VQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:V
Word Overview
The Hebrew verb nāsas is a rare word appearing only once in the Old Testament, at Zechariah 9:16. Its core meaning revolves around being lifted up or made conspicuous, though scholars debate whether it describes physical elevation or visual prominence. In this specific context, it is used metaphorically to describe God’s people as jewels shining brightly on their land.
The source material highlights uncertainty about its precise etymology, with some linking it to the idea of a banner being displayed for all to see. The form used in Zechariah is the Hithpoel stem, which often indicates reflexive or reciprocal action, suggesting the people are "raising themselves up" or becoming visibly distinct. Translators typically render this as "shining" or "glowing," capturing the image of precious stones reflecting light.
This single occurrence carries significant theological weight by comparing the restored community to radiant gems. The imagery suggests that their value and visibility come from their relationship with God, standing out against the surrounding landscape. While the word’s root remains obscure, its usage here provides a vivid picture of dignity and splendor for God’s people.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
When life feels dim or your sense of worth fades, this rare Hebrew word offers a quiet promise. In Zechariah 9:16, the people are described as jewels shining over their land. This image does not rely on human effort to create light but on being set in place by God. Your value is fixed and visible, not because of your performance, but because of whose you are.
Restoration brings visibility. Just as a gem catches the sun, the restored community stands out with dignity. This passage reminds us that God saves His people so they may reflect His glory. You do not need to strive for recognition; your place is secure in His care. The light comes from Him, making your life distinct and precious in the eyes of the world.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- [will] display themselves1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- מִֽתְנוֹסְס֖וֹת1×
Key Verses
-
Zechariah 9:16
Yahweh their God will save them in that day as the flock of his people; for they are like the jewels of a crown, lifted on high over his land.
This verse uses the unique Hithpoel form to depict God's people as radiant jewels, emphasizing their restored dignity and visible worth in the land.