בָּצוֹר
inaccessible, i.e. lofty
Definition
The Hebrew noun בָּצוֹר (bâtsôwr) primarily means 'inaccessible' or 'lofty,' describing something that is high, fortified, and difficult to reach or overcome. Its single biblical occurrence in Zechariah 11:2 poetically personifies a 'lofty cypress' (אֶרֶז בָּצוֹר) as a symbol of pride and strength that is to be lamented and brought low. The word should not be confused with the similar-sounding בָּצִיר (bâtsîyr, H1210), which means 'vintage' or 'grape harvest,' a confusion reflected in some older translations like the KJV.
Biblical Usage
This word is used only once in the Old Testament, in Zechariah 11:2. Here, it appears in a prophetic lament, describing the 'lofty cypress' as a metaphor for the proud and secure leadership of Israel (likely the ruling class or the nation itself) that is doomed to fall. The context is one of judgment, where symbols of strength and elevation are called to wail because they will be cut down.
Etymology
בָּצוֹר derives from the root בָּצַר (bâtsar, H1219), which means 'to cut off,' 'make inaccessible,' or 'fortify.' This root conveys the idea of enclosing or making something secure and impenetrable. From this, בָּצוֹר developed the nominal sense of a 'fortified' or 'inaccessible' place, emphasizing height and defensive strength.
Semantic Range
Though used only once, this word carries theological weight in its context. It serves as a vivid metaphor for human pride and self-sufficient security that stands in opposition to God. In Zechariah 11:2, the 'lofty cypress' represents leadership or structures that appear strong but are ultimately subject to God's judgment. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches the reading by highlighting the biblical theme that God opposes the proud and brings down the exalted (cf. Isaiah 2:12-17, Luke 1:52).
In ancient Near Eastern culture, tall, mighty trees like the cedar and cypress were common symbols of majesty, stability, and pride for kingdoms and rulers (e.g., Ezekiel 31:3-9). A 'lofty' tree was not just physically high but represented political power and perceived invincibility. The prophetic call to lament such a tree would have been a powerful, culturally understood image of impending downfall and humiliation.
מִבְצָר (mivtsar, H4013) — a fortress or stronghold, focusing more on a fortified military structure. שְׂגָב (segav, H7682) — a lofty, secure height or refuge, often used for God's protection (Psalm 18:2).
Word Details
How this works
Hebrew definitions are from Brown-Driver-Briggs (1906) and Strong's Exhaustive Concordance (1890), both public domain. BDB was groundbreaking for its era but reflects 19th-century assumptions about Semitic etymology. Modern scholarship (HALOT, DCH) has revised many entries. Use these definitions as a starting point for exploration, not as the final word on a term's meaning in context.
Full methodology & sources →