נָצַב (na.tsav)
na.tsav
to stand
H:VQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 67 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:V
Word Overview
The Hebrew verb natsav denotes a deliberate act of taking one’s stand or being stationed in a specific place. Unlike casual standing, it implies intentionality and purpose. In the narrative of Joseph, this word describes his sheaf standing upright among the binding sheaves (Genesis 37:7), signaling authority and future prominence. It is also used for Moses preparing to confront Pharaoh at the riverbank (Exodus 7:15), highlighting a moment of divine confrontation.
Its range extends from physical positioning to official appointment. The sources note its use for officers set over laborers in Solomon’s administration (1 Kings 4:5) and for waters that stand firm as a wall (Exodus 15:8). This dual sense of stability and authority reflects its root idea of establishing something firmly in place.
Translators often render natsav as "stand," "set," or "establish" depending on context. The word carries theological weight when describing God’s presence or judgment, such as the prophet Zechariah seeing a shepherd who fails to care for those standing firm (Zechariah 11:16). This usage underscores the expectation of steadfastness in covenant relationships.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Hebrew word natsav describes a deliberate act of taking one’s stand. It is not merely physical positioning but implies intentionality and purpose. When Jacob set up a pillar at Bethel, he marked that moment as significant, establishing a place where God had spoken to him (Genesis 28:13). This act reminds us that our encounters with the divine often call for a response of steadfast commitment.
In times of uncertainty, this word invites us to consider where we are standing. Like Moses who stood on the hill with the rod of God, our posture can influence the outcome of spiritual battles (Exodus 17:9). It suggests that stability comes from aligning ourselves with God’s presence rather than relying on our own strength.
Whether in moments of personal decision or corporate worship, natsav encourages a faithful presence. We are called to stand firm in hope, knowing that God is present with us. This steady stance allows us to face life’s challenges with confidence and peace.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 67 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- standing5×
- [were] standing5×
- [was] standing5×
- the/ overseers3×
- and/ he set up3×
- who/ were standing2×
- who/ was appointed2×
- set up2×
- and/ you will stand2×
- [is] taking his stand2×
- [am] standing2×
- you have set1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- נִצָּ֥ב6×
- נִצָּ֖ב6×
- נִצָּבִ֖ים4×
- נִצָּ֣ב4×
- נִצָּב֙3×
- וַ/יַּצֶּב\־2×
- וַ/יַּצִּ֧בוּ2×
- וְ/נִצַּבְתָּ֥2×
- נִצָּבִים֙1×
- נִצָּבִ֥ים1×
- נִצָּבִ֗ים1×
- נִצָּֽבָה\׃1×
Key Verses
-
Genesis 28:13
Behold, Yahweh stood above it, and said, “I am Yahweh, the God of Abraham your father, and the God of Isaac. I will give the land you lie on to you and to your offspring.
This verse highlights God standing above the ladder, emphasizing His active presence and promise to Jacob.
-
Exodus 17:9
Moses said to Joshua, “Choose men for us, and go out to fight with Amalek. Tomorrow I will stand on the top of the hill with God’s rod in my hand.”
Moses’ physical stance on the hill symbolizes his intercessory role and dependence on God during battle.
-
Genesis 35:14
Jacob set up a pillar in the place where he spoke with him, a pillar of stone. He poured out a drink offering on it, and poured oil on it.
Jacob setting up a pillar marks a permanent memorial of his encounter with God at Bethel.
-
Numbers 22:23
The donkey saw Yahweh’s angel standing in the way, with his sword drawn in his hand; and the donkey turned out of the path, and went into the field. Balaam struck the donkey, to turn her into the path.
The donkey seeing the angel standing in the way reveals God’s intervention to redirect Balaam’s path.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does natsav mean in the Bible?
How is natsav different from other words for standing?
Where does this word appear in key stories?
Every Occurrence (67 verses across 20 books)
Genesis 12 verses
He lifted up his eyes and looked, and saw that three men stood near him. When he saw them, he ran to meet them from the…
Genesis 21:28Abraham set seven ewe lambs of the flock by themselves.
Genesis 21:29Abimelech said to Abraham, “What do these seven ewe lambs, which you have set by themselves, mean?”
Genesis 24:13Behold, I am standing by the spring of water. The daughters of the men of the city are coming out to draw water.
Genesis 24:43behold, I am standing by this spring of water. Let it happen, that the maiden who comes out to draw, to whom I will…
Genesis 28:12He dreamed and saw a stairway set upon the earth, and its top reached to heaven. Behold, the angels of God were…
Genesis 28:13Behold, Yahweh stood above it, and said, “I am Yahweh, the God of Abraham your father, and the God of Isaac. I will…
Genesis 33:20He erected an altar there, and called it El Elohe Israel.
Genesis 35:14Jacob set up a pillar in the place where he spoke with him, a pillar of stone. He poured out a drink offering on it,…
Genesis 35:20Jacob set up a pillar on her grave. The same is the Pillar of Rachel’s grave to this day.
Genesis 37:7for behold, we were binding sheaves in the field, and behold, my sheaf arose and also stood upright; and behold, your…
Genesis 45:1Then Joseph couldn’t control himself before all those who stood before him, and he called out, “Cause everyone to go…