רָצַד
probably to look askant, i.e. (figuratively) be jealous
Definition
The Hebrew verb רָצַד (râtsad) appears only once in the Old Testament, in Psalm 68:16. Its precise meaning is uncertain due to its rarity, but it is generally understood to mean 'to look askance' or 'to peer enviously.' This action of looking sideways or with a jealous gaze is used figuratively to describe the attitude of hostile nations toward God's holy mountain, Zion. The context suggests a sense of envy, malice, or hostile observation. Because it occurs only in this poetic, metaphorical setting, its primary meaning is tied to this figurative use of jealous watching.
Biblical Usage
This word is used only in Psalm 68:16, within a poetic description of God's majestic presence at Mount Zion. The verse contrasts the 'many-peaked mountain' that God desires for His dwelling with the envious looking of other mountains. The usage is entirely figurative, applying the concept of a jealous, sidelong glance to personified mountains representing rival nations or powers. Its sole occurrence is in the Psalms, within a hymn celebrating God's triumphant power and choice of Zion.
Etymology
רָצַד (râtsad) is considered a primitive root in Hebrew. Its exact derivation is unclear, but it is often connected by scholars to an Arabic cognate meaning 'to spy out' or 'to watch closely,' supporting the idea of intense or jealous observation. As a rare verb, its meaning is primarily deduced from its single biblical context and comparative Semitic linguistics.
Semantic Range
This word, though rare, contributes to the rich biblical theme of Zion theology and divine election. In Psalm 68:16, it vividly portrays the reaction of the world's powers to God's choice of Jerusalem as His dwelling place. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches the reading by highlighting that the opposition to God's kingdom is often characterized by envy (רָצַד) rather than mere political conflict. It underscores a spiritual truth: God's sovereign choices provoke jealousy among those excluded, pointing to the unique status of God's people and the future hope of all nations streaming to Zion (Isaiah 2:2-3).
In the ancient Near East, mountains were often associated with the dwellings of gods. The portrayal of other mountains looking with envy (רָצַד) at Zion would resonate with an audience familiar with this symbolism. It communicates that Yahweh, the God of Israel, has chosen one specific location, elevating it above all other supposed divine abodes. The 'sidelong glance' may reflect a cultural understanding of envy or malice as something done covertly or with averted eyes.
קָנָא (qānā', H7065) — a more common verb for 'to be jealous' or 'zealous,' often used of God's character or human envy. רָצַד emphasizes the furtive, observant aspect of jealousy.
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 →