צֹרֶךְ

need

Definition

The Hebrew noun צֹרֶךְ (tsôrek) means 'need' or 'requirement.' It refers to something that is necessary or lacking, often in a practical or material sense. In its sole biblical occurrence in 2 Chronicles 2:16, it specifically denotes the timber 'need' or 'requirement' for Solomon's temple construction. The word carries a sense of a specific, identifiable necessity rather than a general want.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the Old Testament, in 2 Chronicles 2:16. In this context, it describes the timber supply that King Hiram of Tyre agrees to provide to meet Solomon's 'need' for building the temple. The usage is in a formal agreement or covenant context, detailing material provisions for a sacred project.

Etymology

Derived from an unused Hebrew root meaning 'to need.' It is a primary noun for 'need.' Cognates may exist in other Semitic languages, but its biblical usage is limited and straightforward, denoting a state of necessity.

Semantic Range

While the word itself is practical, its single use in the context of temple construction (2 Chronicles 2:16) connects it to God's provision for His dwelling place. It highlights that God meets the specific material needs for His work through human cooperation and covenant relationships, as seen in the pact between Solomon and Hiram.

In the ancient Near East, formal agreements for large-scale building projects, like temples, involved detailed stipulations for materials. The use of צֹרֶךְ in this covenant reflects a contractual understanding of fulfilling a specified 'requirement,' essential for monumental state and religious constructions.

חֶסֶר (cheser, H2637) — emphasizes a lack, deficit, or want. מַחְסוֹר (machsor, H4270) — denotes want, poverty, or scarcity, often of necessities.

Word Details

Scripture References