מַסְתֵּר

properly, a hider, i.e. (abstractly) a hiding, i.e. aversion

Definition

The Hebrew noun מַסְתֵּר (maçtêr) literally means 'a hiding' or 'a hider,' describing something that conceals or causes aversion. It is derived from the root סָתַר (satar), meaning 'to hide' or 'to conceal.' In its sole biblical occurrence in Isaiah 53:3, it is used metaphorically to describe the Messiah being 'as one from whom men hide their faces'—expressing profound rejection and aversion. This suggests not just physical hiding, but an emotional and social turning away, where the subject is so despised or sorrowful that others avert their gaze.

Biblical Usage

This word appears only once in the Old Testament, in Isaiah 53:3, within the context of the 'Suffering Servant' prophecy. It describes the Servant's state of being despised and rejected by humanity. The usage is highly poetic and metaphorical, conveying intense emotional and social repulsion rather than a literal act of concealment. The phrase 'מַסְתֵּר פָּנִים' (maçtêr panim) translates to 'a hiding of faces,' picturing people turning their faces away in horror, shame, or disgust.

Etymology

מַסְתֵּר is a noun derived from the common Hebrew root סָתַר (satar, H5641), which means 'to hide, conceal, or shelter.' It follows the common maqtēl noun pattern (מַקְטֵל), which often indicates the instrument or place of an action—hence, 'a hider' or 'a hiding place.' Cognate words include סֵתֶר (seter, H5643), meaning 'covering, shelter, secrecy,' and מִסְתָּר (mistar, H4565), meaning 'a hiding place.' The semantic range moves from physical concealment to the metaphorical sense of causing aversion.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it appears in the pivotal messianic prophecy of Isaiah 53. It deepens our understanding of Christ's humiliation and rejection. The 'hiding of faces' from the Servant underscores the depth of human sin that finds the sin-bearing Savior repulsive. It connects to doctrines of atonement, substitution, and the paradox of the glorious Messiah being despised. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches the reading of Isaiah 53 by highlighting the visceral, cultural weight of the rejection Jesus would endure.

In ancient Near Eastern culture, 'hiding the face' was a powerful gesture. Turning one's face away could express grief, shame, disrespect, or the desire to avoid a ritually unclean or accursed person. In Isaiah 53:3, this cultural action magnifies the Servant's isolation. He is treated as someone so afflicted or morally contaminated that society must distance itself visually and socially. This differs from a modern, individualistic understanding of rejection, as it implies a complete, communal shunning with profound ceremonial overtones.

סֵתֶר (seter, H5643) — a covering or shelter, often a literal hiding place. מִסְתָּר (mistar, H4565) — a hiding place or refuge, often used for physical concealment. כִּסּוּי (kissuy, H3682) — a covering, more often literal (like a garment).

Word Details

Scripture References