צוּר (tsur)
tsur
Rocks (of Goats)
H:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 58 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-M
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun tsur refers to a solid mass of stone, such as a cliff, boulder, or rocky outcrop. Its root idea involves compression or binding together, which explains why it describes both sharp, precipitous edges and large, compact blocks of rock. In the Old Testament, this word appears frequently in poetic contexts, particularly in Psalms and Isaiah, where it serves as a vivid metaphor for stability and permanence.
Theological usage often elevates tsur from a mere geological feature to a symbol of divine protection. Writers describe God as "my rock" or "the Rock," emphasizing His role as an unshakeable refuge and source of strength. For instance, David declares in Psalm 18:46 that the Lord is his rock, while Deuteronomy 32:4 identifies Him as the perfect Rock whose works are faithful. This imagery contrasts sharply with the fragility of human circumstances, pointing to a foundation that cannot be moved.
Translators typically render tsur as "rock," though the context sometimes clarifies whether it refers to a physical ledge or a spiritual stronghold. The word carries significant weight in covenantal language, reminding readers that trust is placed not in shifting sands but in solid ground. Its recurring presence in worship texts underscores the enduring nature of God’s character compared to the transient world around it.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word tsur describes a solid mass of stone, such as a cliff or boulder. In the Old Testament, it serves as a vivid metaphor for stability. When writers describe God as 'the Rock,' they emphasize His role as an unshakeable refuge. This imagery contrasts sharply with the fragility of human circumstances, pointing to a foundation that cannot be moved.
David declares in Psalm 18:46 that the Lord is his rock. Deuteronomy 32:4 identifies Him as the perfect Rock whose works are faithful. This recurring presence in worship texts underscores the enduring nature of God’s character compared to the transient world around it. Trust is placed not in shifting sands but in solid ground.
For your faith, this means you can rest in a strength that does not fade. When life feels unstable, remember that the One who holds the universe is also your personal stronghold. This promise invites you to find peace in His constant presence.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 58 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- the/ rock9×
- a rock5×
- [the] rock of4×
- [the] rock4×
- rock/ my3×
- [is] a rock3×
- rock/ their2×
- in the/ rock2×
- from/ [the] rock of2×
- flint<s>2×
- at/ [the] rock of2×
- and/ a rock2×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- צ֥וּר6×
- צ֖וּר5×
- צוּרָ֑/ם2×
- צֽוּר\׃2×
- צֻרִ֑ים2×
- צ֣וּר2×
- מִ/צּ֖וּר2×
- לְ/צ֣וּר2×
- וְ/צ֥וּר2×
- הַ/צּוּר֙2×
- צוּרָ֣/ם1×
- צוּרִ֗/י1×
Key Verses
-
Deuteronomy 32:4
The Rock: his work is perfect, for all his ways are just. A God of faithfulness who does no wrong, just and right is he.
This verse explicitly links the title 'Rock' with God's perfect work and faithfulness, establishing the theological foundation for the metaphor.
-
II Samuel 22:3
God is my rock in whom I take refuge; my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my high tower, and my refuge. My savior, you save me from violence.
David uses this term to describe his personal experience of God as a shield and high tower, highlighting its function as a place of safety.
-
Exodus 17:6
Behold, I will stand before you there on the rock in Horeb. You shall strike the rock, and water will come out of it, that the people may drink.” Moses did so in the sight of the elders of Israel.
Here the word refers to the physical rock in Horeb where Moses struck it to provide water, showing God's provision from seemingly lifeless sources.
-
I Samuel 2:2
There is no one as holy as Yahweh, for there is no one besides you, nor is there any rock like our God.
Hannah contrasts human frailty with God's unique holiness by stating there is no rock like our God, emphasizing His distinctiveness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Hebrew word tsur mean?
Why is God called 'the Rock' in the Bible?
How is tsur different from other words for stone?
Every Occurrence (58 verses across 14 books)
Exodus 3 verses
Behold, I will stand before you there on the rock in Horeb. You shall strike the rock, and water will come out of it,…
Exodus 33:21Yahweh also said, “Behold, there is a place by me, and you shall stand on the rock.
Exodus 33:22It will happen, while my glory passes by, that I will put you in a cleft of the rock, and will cover you with my hand…