יָשַׂם

to place; intransitively, to be placed

Definition

The Hebrew verb יָשַׂם (yâsam) is a primitive root meaning 'to place' or 'to set.' It can be used both transitively, as in actively placing an object, and intransitively, meaning 'to be placed' or 'to be set.' In its two biblical occurrences, it describes the act of setting food before someone (Genesis 24:33) and the state of being placed in a coffin (Genesis 50:26). The word conveys a deliberate act of positioning or establishing something in a specific location.

Biblical Usage

This verb is used only twice in the Old Testament, both times in the book of Genesis. In Genesis 24:33, it describes Abraham's servant having food 'set' before him, indicating hospitality. In Genesis 50:26, it refers to Joseph's body being 'placed' or 'put' in a coffin in Egypt. The usage is concrete, relating to the physical placement of objects or persons.

Etymology

יָשַׂם (yâsam) is a primitive root. It is related to the more common verb שִׂים (śîm, H7760), which also means 'to put' or 'to set,' suggesting a shared semantic field of placing or appointing. The root conveys the basic concept of establishing a position.

Semantic Range

In Genesis 24:33, the act of setting food before a guest was a fundamental gesture of ancient Near Eastern hospitality, signifying welcome and provision. In Genesis 50:26, the placement of Joseph in a coffin in Egypt, rather than immediate burial, reflects Egyptian embalming practices and sets the stage for the future Exodus, as his bones were later taken to the Promised Land.

שִׂים (śîm, H7760) — A far more common verb with a nearly identical meaning ('to put, set, appoint'), used hundreds of times. יָשַׂם is a rare, possibly archaic variant.

Word Details

Scripture References