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צִבּוּר (tsib.bur)

tsib.bur

heap

H6652 · Hebrew · Old Testament · 1 verses

H:N-M

Quick Reference

Language
Biblical Hebrew
Testament
Old Testament
Occurrences
1 verses
Root
—
Part of speech
H:N-M

Word Overview

The Hebrew noun tsibbur, translated as a heap or pile, appears only once in the Old Testament, in 2 Kings 10:8. In this context, it describes the mass of heads gathered together after the execution of Jezebel’s seventy sons. The word conveys a sense of accumulation, referring to a collection of items heaped up rather than arranged with order.

Its usage is stark and literal, focusing on the physical result of violence rather than any symbolic meaning. Translators typically render it simply as "heap" or "pile," capturing the raw image of bodies collected in one place. There are no other occurrences to suggest a broader theological nuance; it stands as a singular, descriptive term for a gathered mass.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The word tsibbur appears only once in Scripture, describing a heap of heads brought to Jehu. It is a stark image of judgment and the end of a dynasty. This single occurrence reminds us that God sees the full weight of human actions.

For your faith, this word highlights the seriousness of sin and the reality of divine justice. It does not offer comfort in the scene itself, but points to the need for a Savior who bears judgment on our behalf. We find hope not in the heap, but in the cross where Christ took our place.

Let this truth anchor you: God is just, yet He provides mercy through Jesus. Rest in His righteous character and His loving grace.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • heaps1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • צִבֻּרִ֛ים1×

Key Verses

  • II Kings 10:8
    A messenger came and told him, “They have brought the heads of the king’s sons.” He said, “Lay them in two heaps at the entrance of the gate until the morning.”

    This verse uses tsibbur to describe the physical piles of heads, emphasizing the finality of judgment against Ahab's house.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Hebrew word tsibbur mean?

Tsibbur means a heap or pile. It is used literally to describe a collection of items heaped together, as seen in the single occurrence in 2 Kings 10:8.

Why does this word appear only once in the Bible?

It appears only in 2 Kings 10:8 to describe the heads of Jezebel's sons. Its rarity reflects its specific use in a historical narrative of judgment rather than as a recurring theological term.

Is there a spiritual lesson from this word?

The word itself is descriptive, not prescriptive. It highlights the seriousness of sin and God's justice. The broader biblical message points to Christ as the one who bears judgment for us.

Every Occurrence (1 verses across 1 books)

II Kings 1 verse
II Kings 10:8

A messenger came and told him, “They have brought the heads of the king’s sons.” He said, “Lay them in two heaps at the…