מָסַר
to sunder, i.e. (transitively) set apart, or (reflex.) apostatize
Definition
The Hebrew verb מָסַר (mâçar) fundamentally means 'to sunder' or 'to separate,' carrying both positive and negative connotations. In its transitive sense, it means to set apart or deliver something into another's hand, as seen in Numbers 31:5 where Moses is instructed to 'set apart' men for war. In its reflexive sense, it describes a negative separation, meaning to apostatize or commit unfaithfulness by turning away from God, as used in Numbers 31:16 regarding the Midianite women who caused Israel to 'commit trespass' against the LORD. Thus, the core idea is a decisive act of separation, whether for a specific purpose or as an act of rebellion.
Biblical Usage
This verb is used only twice in the Old Testament, both in Numbers 31. In verse 5, it is used positively in a military context, meaning to 'set apart' or 'appoint' men from the tribes for a holy war. In verse 16, the same verb is used negatively, referring to the act of causing Israel to 'commit trespass' or apostatize through idolatry and sexual immorality. This dual usage within the same chapter highlights how the act of separation can be for consecration or for profound sin, depending on the object and direction of that separation.
Etymology
מָסַר (mâçar) is a primitive root. Its fundamental meaning relates to dividing or separating. Cognates in other Semitic languages support the idea of handing over or delivering. The development of meaning from the physical act of 'sundering' to the abstract concepts of 'setting apart' for a task and 'apostatizing' from a covenant relationship is a natural semantic extension within the biblical worldview.
Semantic Range
This word is theologically significant as it encapsulates a key biblical tension: separation can be holy or profane. The same action—setting apart—can describe God's calling of his people for service (Numbers 31:5) or their tragic turning away into idolatry (Numbers 31:16). It underscores that covenant loyalty requires being set apart for God, not from Him. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches reading by revealing that apostasy is not merely disbelief but an active, decisive handing of oneself over to another master, a grievous reversal of God's redemptive 'setting apart.'
In its ancient Near Eastern context, 'setting apart' for war (Numbers 31:5) was a ritual act of consecration, recognizing the battle as belonging to Yahweh. The concept of apostatizing by 'handing over' loyalty (Numbers 31:16) would be understood within the framework of covenant treaties, where transferring allegiance to another god (like Baal of Peor) was the ultimate betrayal, akin to political treason. The severe consequence (execution) mirrors the cultural and legal gravity of such a breach of covenant.
נָתַן (nāthan, H5414) — a more general term for 'to give' or 'put,' without the inherent connotation of separation or apostasy. פָּשַׁע (pāšaʿ, H6586) — specifically means 'to transgress' or 'rebel,' focusing on the breach of relationship rather than the act of handing oneself over. קָדַשׁ (qādaš, H6942) — means 'to be holy' or 'set apart' (sanctify), usually for sacred purposes, lacking the negative reflexive sense of מָסַר.
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.
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