מַסָּח
a cordon, (adverbially) or (as a) military barrier
Definition
The Hebrew noun מַסָּח (maççâch) refers to a military barrier or cordon, specifically a detachment of soldiers positioned to guard an area. It appears only in 2 Kings 11:6, describing the guard units assigned to protect King Joash during a coup. The term likely denotes a defensive line or a posted watch designed to 'stave off' or prevent unauthorized access. In its single biblical occurrence, it functions as part of a detailed military arrangement to secure the young king's safety.
Biblical Usage
This word is used only once in the Old Testament, in 2 Kings 11:6 (and its parallel account in 2 Chronicles 23:5, though a different Hebrew term is used there). It describes the specific guard details ('the cordon') stationed at the temple to protect Joash from Athaliah. The context is entirely military and protective, detailing the strategic posting of troops during a pivotal political and religious restoration in Judah.
Etymology
Derived from the root נָסַח (nāsach, H5255), which means to pull up, tear away, or root out. In the specific sense for מַסָּח, the meaning developed into 'staving off' or 'warding off,' leading to the noun form indicating a barrier or detachment intended to keep something at bay. This connects the physical barrier to the action of preventing intrusion or attack.
Semantic Range
While primarily a military term, its use in 2 Kings 11:6 is theologically significant as part of the narrative securing the Davidic line. The protective 'cordon' around Joash was instrumental in preserving the covenant lineage promised to David (2 Samuel 7:16), allowing for the continuation of kingship that would ultimately lead to Christ. Understanding this term highlights God's providence in using practical, military measures to fulfill His sovereign promises.
In ancient Near Eastern warfare and royal security, establishing physical cordons or guard posts was a standard practice to protect important persons and places. This 'cordon' would have been understood as a organized, defensive perimeter, likely composed of armed soldiers blocking specific gates or approaches. Its mention reflects the precise logistical planning involved in ancient palace coups and the protection of royalty.
חֵיל (ḥêl, H2428) — A broader term for an army, fortification, or rampart, not specifically a posted guard detail. מִשְׁמָר (mishmār, H4931) — A guard, watch, or charge, often for protective oversight, but can be more general than a military barrier.
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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