צִיר (tsir)
tsir
image
H:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-M
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun tsir refers to a carved image or idol, appearing only once in the Old Testament within Isaiah 40:19. In this context, it describes a crafted figure made by a craftsman from molten metal, highlighting the human effort involved in creating something meant to represent the divine.
Its meaning is straightforward but theologically significant. The word underscores the contrast between the invisible, eternal Creator and the tangible, man-made object. By using tsir, the text emphasizes that idols are not merely false gods but physical representations shaped by human hands, lacking the power or presence of the God they attempt to depict.
This single occurrence serves as a sharp critique of idolatry in Isaiah’s prophecy. The word reminds readers that worship directed toward such images is misplaced, as these objects are limited creations rather than living deities. The brevity of its usage in Scripture focuses attention on the absurdity of equating crafted material with the Almighty.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Hebrew word tsir appears only once in Scripture, in Isaiah 40:19. It describes a carved image made by human hands from metal. This single occurrence highlights the difference between the invisible Creator and the tangible objects people craft to represent Him.
This distinction matters for our faith today. We often create modern idols—things we trust more than God. These might be success, comfort, or approval. The text reminds us that these crafted things lack the power of the living God. Worship belongs to the One who made all things, not the things we make.
When we feel drawn to control our circumstances or seek security in material things, this word invites us to look up. It calls us back to the reality of God’s sovereignty. We are invited to rest in His care, rather than striving to shape our own safety through false sources.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- images1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- צִירִֽים\׃1×