תַּעֲצֻמָה
might (plural collective)
Definition
The noun תַּעֲצֻמָה (taʻătsumâh) refers to a collective, overwhelming might or power. It describes a formidable, concentrated force, often in a military or divine context. In its sole biblical occurrence in Psalm 68:35, it is used to describe the awe-inspiring power of God, which is displayed in His sanctuary and over Israel. The word conveys a sense of gathered, majestic strength that commands reverence and fear.
Biblical Usage
This word is used only once in the Old Testament, in Psalm 68:35. It appears in a hymn praising God's majesty and power, specifically in the context of His strength being given to His people. The usage is poetic and liturgical, emphasizing the overwhelming and awe-inspiring nature of divine power as experienced in worship and national life.
Etymology
Derived from the root עָצַם (ʿātsam, H6105), which means 'to be vast, mighty, or numerous.' This root often conveys the idea of being powerful or great in number. The noun form תַּעֲצֻמָה is a feminine collective noun, indicating a gathered or concentrated manifestation of this might, as opposed to a single instance of strength.
Semantic Range
This word is theologically significant as it specifically attributes overwhelming, collective power to God. In Psalm 68:35, it underscores that God's might is not abstract but is manifested for His people's benefit and inspires awe. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches the reading of this psalm by highlighting the tangible, sanctuary-dwelling, and awe-commanding nature of divine power, contrasting it with merely human strength.
In its ancient Near Eastern context, power (תַּעֲצֻמָה) was often associated with military might and royal authority. The use in a psalm dedicates this concept solely to Israel's God, asserting that ultimate, formidable power resides not in armies or kings, but in Yahweh. This re-frames a common cultural concept within a monotheistic worship context.
עֹז (ʿōz, H5797) — general strength or might, often physical or defensive. גְּבוּרָה (gᵊḇûrâ, H1369) — valor, heroic power, often in battle. כֹּחַ (kōaḥ, H3581) — capacity, force, or ability.
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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