צַפַּ֫חַת (tsap.pa.chat)

tsap.pa.chat

jar

H6835 · Hebrew · Old Testament · 7 verses

H:N-F

Language: Biblical Hebrew
Testament: Old Testament
Occurrences: 7 verses
Root: —
Part of speech: H:N-F

Word Overview

The noun tsapachat refers to a specific type of vessel: a jar or jug designed for holding liquids. Unlike narrow-necked amphorae used for storage, this word describes containers that are typically flat or broad in shape, making them practical for carrying and pouring water or wine in everyday life.

Its usage is concentrated in the historical books, appearing seven times in the Hebrew Bible with a notable presence in 1 Samuel and 1 Kings. These contexts often involve domestic scenes or royal preparations where such vessels would be essential tools rather than decorative objects.

The physical description of the jar as flat or broad distinguishes it from other Hebrew words for pottery. This shape suggests stability and ease of handling, reflecting a word rooted in the practical realities of ancient household management and daily sustenance.

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

What This Word Means for Your Faith

When we read about David stealing Saul’s spear and water jar, or the widow sharing her last meal with Elijah, these objects anchor us in real human need. The Hebrew word tsapachat describes a simple, flat jar used for carrying water or storing dry goods like flour. It is not a decorative item but a tool for survival, reflecting the daily rhythms of ancient households where sustenance was carefully managed.

These vessels remind us that God often meets our needs through ordinary means. In 1 Kings 17, the widow’s jar of meal did not run out, showing how divine provision works within the limits of human resources. Similarly, David respected Saul’s water jar as a symbol of his anointed status, recognizing that even small items can carry significant spiritual weight. This word invites us to see the sacred in the mundane.

Whether you are facing scarcity or simply navigating daily responsibilities, tsapachat encourages trust in God’s care for practical needs. It calls attention to how God uses everyday objects and moments to sustain life and reveal His faithfulness. May we learn to value these small provisions as signs of His ongoing presence.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 7 verses where it appears, by frequency.

[the] jug of3×
and/ [the] jug of2×
in <the>/ jug1×
and/ a jug of1×

Forms in the text

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

צַפַּ֥חַת2×
וְ/צַפַּ֥חַת2×
צַפַּ֤חַת1×
וְ/צַפַּ֣חַת1×
בַּ/צַּפָּ֑חַת1×

Key Verses

I Samuel 26:11
Yahweh forbid that I should stretch out my hand against Yahweh’s anointed; but now please take the spear that is at his head and the jar of water, and let’s go.”

David takes the spear and jar of water from Saul’s head, showing respect for the king’s anointed status while avoiding harm.
I Kings 17:14
For Yahweh, the God of Israel, says, ‘The jar of meal will not run out, and the jar of oil will not fail, until the day that Yahweh sends rain on the earth.’”

Elijah prophesies that the widow’s jar of meal will not run out, highlighting God’s miraculous provision through ordinary vessels.
I Kings 17:16
The jar of meal didn’t run out and the jar of oil didn’t fail, according to Yahweh’s word, which he spoke by Elijah.

The narrative confirms the fulfillment of Elijah’s prophecy, emphasizing the reliability of God’s word in sustaining life.
I Kings 19:6
He looked, and behold, there was at his head a cake baked on the coals, and a jar of water. He ate and drank, and lay down again.

An angel provides Elijah with bread and water in a jar, restoring his strength after a journey marked by fear and exhaustion.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Hebrew word tsapachat mean?

Tsapachat refers to a flat or broad jar used for holding liquids like water or wine. It appears seven times in the Hebrew Bible, primarily in historical books such as 1 Samuel and 1 Kings. This type of vessel was practical for daily use rather than decorative purposes.

How is tsapachat different from other words for jars in the Bible?

Unlike narrow-necked amphorae used for long-term storage, tsapachat describes a flatter, more portable container suited for carrying and pouring. Its design reflects stability and ease of handling, making it ideal for everyday tasks like fetching water or storing dry goods.

Why is tsapachat significant in biblical narratives?

This word often appears in scenes involving divine provision or human vulnerability. For example, the widow’s jar of meal in 1 Kings 17 symbolizes God’s miraculous sustenance, while David’s handling of Saul’s water jar demonstrates reverence for authority.

Where else does tsapachat appear in Scripture?

Beyond its appearances in 1 Samuel and 1 Kings, tsapachat is mentioned in contexts involving royal preparations or domestic life. These occurrences highlight the importance of practical tools in both personal and political spheres.

Every Occurrence (7 verses across 2 books)

I Samuel 3 verses

I Samuel 26:11

Yahweh forbid that I should stretch out my hand against Yahweh’s anointed; but now please take the spear that is at his…

I Samuel 26:12

So David took the spear and the jar of water from Saul’s head, and they went away. No man saw it, or knew it, nor did…

I Samuel 26:16

This thing isn’t good that you have done. As Yahweh lives, you are worthy to die, because you have not kept watch over…

I Kings 4 verses