Lexical Summary betsar: Gold, precious metal, gain, or wealth. Original Word: בְּצַר Strong's Exhaustive Concordance gold Another form for betser; gold -- gold. see HEBREW betser NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originanother reading for tsar, q.v. Topical Lexicon Usage and Immediate Context In its lone appearance, “betsar” surfaces in Elihu’s challenge to Job: “Can your wealth or all your mighty efforts keep you from distress?” (Job 36:19). The word conveys a tight, constricting adversity that no human asset can avert. Elihu’s intent is pastoral and corrective—directing Job away from self-reliance toward submission to God’s sovereign dealings. Historical and Cultural Setting Wealth, livestock, family honor, and physical vigor were the recognized safeguards of patriarchal society. By invoking “betsar,” Elihu dismantles the cultural axiom that material or martial strength guarantees security. The text mirrors wider Ancient Near Eastern patterns where deities were thought placated by riches; the biblical witness instead insists that true safety lies solely in Yahweh’s favor. Theological Significance 1. Divine sovereignty over affliction—“He delivers the afflicted by their affliction” (Job 36:15). Connections with Broader Scriptural Themes • Israel boxed in at the Red Sea (Exodus 14:10-14). Each instance amplifies the principle that deliverance is the Lord’s prerogative, not man’s achievement. Practical Ministry Applications • Pastoral counseling: Temper worldly security with trust in God’s providence. Christological Reflection Human resources collapse under “betsar,” but Christ “gave Himself as a ransom for all” (1 Timothy 2:6). His atoning work answers the distress no earthly fortune can alleviate, fulfilling the prophetic pattern that only God can rescue from the narrow strait of sin and judgment (1 Peter 1:18-19). Summary Though occurring only once, “betsar” spotlights the bankruptcy of self-salvation and magnifies God’s exclusive role as Deliverer, ultimately realized in Jesus Christ. Forms and Transliterations בְצָ֑ר בצר ḇə·ṣār ḇəṣār veTzarLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |
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