צָבַט (tsa.vat)
tsa.vat
to serve
H:VQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:V
Word Overview
The Hebrew verb tsa.vat is a rare word appearing only once in the Old Testament, found in Ruth 2:14. Its core meaning is to reach out or extend one’s hand, often with the implication of holding something out to another person.
In this specific context, Boaz invites Ruth to come closer and eat from his food supply. He then reaches out his piece of bread to her. The action is physical and intimate, signaling hospitality and care rather than mere transactional service. This single instance highlights a gesture of generous provision in a moment of vulnerability.
Because it occurs so infrequently, the word does not carry a broad theological range like more common terms for service or work. Instead, it paints a vivid picture of relational kindness. The act of reaching out becomes a tangible symbol of welcome and support within the narrative of Ruth.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
When we think about serving others, we often imagine large tasks or formal duties. The Hebrew word tsa.vat in Ruth 2:14 shows us something simpler and more personal. Boaz reaches out his hand to offer Ruth a piece of bread. This small gesture speaks louder than many grand actions because it meets someone exactly where they are.
God’s care often comes through these quiet moments of connection. You do not need to have all the answers or perform perfectly to show love. Sometimes, simply extending kindness—like sharing a meal or offering a kind word—is enough. This word reminds us that true service is about presence and generosity, not just obligation.
May you find peace in knowing that God sees these small acts of love. He values the way we reach out to those who are vulnerable. Let this encourage you to offer simple hospitality today, trusting that even small gestures carry His grace.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ he held out1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וַ/יִּצְבָּט\־1×
Key Verses
-
Ruth 2:14
At meal time Boaz said to her, “Come here, and eat some bread, and dip your morsel in the vinegar.” She sat beside the reapers, and they passed her parched grain. She ate, was satisfied, and left some of it.
This verse captures the word's meaning as Boaz physically reaches out to share bread with Ruth, showing hospitality rather than distant duty.