שַׁ֫חַץ (sha.chats)
sha.chats
pride
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 shaḥats carries the dual sense of dignified majesty and arrogant pride. It describes a state of elevated status that can manifest as either noble grandeur or haughty self-importance. This word appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, located in Job 41:30.
In this verse, the term characterizes the terrifying power of Leviathan. The text states that the creature lies down beneath sharp pointed stones, which are described with shaḥats. Here, the meaning leans toward majestic strength or imposing dignity rather than moral pride. It highlights the raw, untamed grandeur of a beast that stands above ordinary creation.
The singular occurrence in Job underscores its use for describing something overwhelmingly powerful and awe-inspiring. Translators often render it as "pride" or "majesty," reflecting this blend of honor and formidable presence. The word captures a quality of being elevated, whether through inherent nobility or sheer force.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word shaḥats appears only once in Scripture, found in Job 41:30 where it describes the terrifying majesty of Leviathan. It captures a raw, untamed grandeur that stands above ordinary creation. This usage reminds us that true power often carries an awe-inspiring weight, distinct from simple human strength.
While many associate pride with arrogance, this rare term highlights dignified elevation. It suggests that greatness can be both formidable and noble. In our own lives, we encounter forces of nature and moments of profound beauty that evoke similar reverence. Recognizing this helps us distinguish between haughty self-importance and the awe-worthy aspects of God's creation.
Reflecting on such majesty invites humility. When we see true power in the world, it points toward a Creator whose designs are beyond our full comprehension. This perspective encourages gratitude for the intricate details of existence rather than fear of what lies beyond our control.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- pride1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- שָׁ֑חַץ1×