Assay
What Does 'Assay' Mean in the Bible?
The term 'assay' is an older English word, found primarily in the King James Version and some subsequent translations, meaning to attempt, try, test, or venture. It carries connotations of making an effort, often one that is perilous, audacious, or ultimately unsuccessful. In modern translations, words like 'try,' 'attempt,' or 'venture' are typically used. The biblical use of 'assay' captures moments of human initiative, divine testing, and the tension between human ambition and God's sovereign plan.
Key Biblical Narratives and Usages
The concept appears in several significant stories. In one of the most vivid examples, the young David assayed to walk in King Saul's armor before facing Goliath but found he could not, for he had not tested it (1 Samuel 17:39). This failed attempt highlights the theme of trusting in God-given methods rather than human conventions. In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul assayed to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus prevented him (Acts 16:7), redirecting his mission to Macedonia, a pivotal moment in the spread of the gospel. Paul was also falsely accused of having assayed to profane the temple (Acts 24:6), underscoring the opposition he faced.
Other instances include Moses reminding Israel that God assayed to go and take a nation for Himself from within another nation (Deuteronomy 4:34), referring to the Exodus as a divine venture. In Job 4:2, Eliphaz asks, 'Will you be grieved if one assays to commune with you?' speaking of a tentative or risky attempt at conversation. The writer of Hebrews states that the Egyptians assayed to cross the Red Sea and were drowned (Hebrews 11:29), framing their pursuit as a fatal, prideful venture contrasted with Israel's faith.
Theological Themes of Testing and Attempt
The biblical use of 'assay' intertwines with major theological themes. It frequently illustrates human limitation and failed initiative. David's attempt with Saul's armor shows the futility of relying on human strength or unsuitable tools. Conversely, when God is the subject, as in Deuteronomy 4:34, the 'assay' is a powerful demonstration of His sovereign ability to accomplish the impossible.
The term also relates to the theme of divine guidance versus human plans. Paul's prevented journey to Bithynia (Acts 16:7) is a classic example of God redirecting human efforts for His greater purpose, teaching that God's will supersedes even good intentions. Furthermore, 'assay' connects to testing and proving faith. The failed attempts often serve as object lessons, distinguishing true faith that waits on God from presumption that acts in human wisdom.
Modern Relevance and Application
For contemporary readers, the concept behind 'assay' remains deeply relevant. It challenges believers to examine their own ventures: Are we attempting things in our own strength, like David in untested armor? Are we sensitive to the Spirit's redirection, like Paul? The narratives encourage a faith that is both active and dependent, willing to attempt great things for God while remaining utterly reliant on His provision and guidance. They warn against the prideful 'assay' that ends in destruction, as with the Egyptians, and commend the faithful obedience that follows God's lead, even when initial plans are thwarted.
Biblical Context
The term 'assay' appears in both Old and New Testaments, though the underlying Hebrew and Greek words are more commonly translated as 'try,' 'test,' or 'attempt.' Key narratives include David's failed attempt to use Saul's armor (1 Samuel 17:39), God's deliverance of Israel from Egypt described as a divine venture (Deuteronomy 4:34), and Paul's missionary journeys where his plans were redirected by the Holy Spirit (Acts 16:7). It also appears in accusations against Paul (Acts 24:6), the dialogue in Job (Job 4:2), and the commentary on the Exodus in Hebrews (Hebrews 11:29). It plays a role in stories highlighting human effort, divine testing, and the intersection of human will with God's purpose.
Theological Significance
Theologically, 'assay' illuminates the nature of human action under God's sovereignty. It demonstrates that human attempts, while real and meaningful, are ultimately subject to God's will and providence. Failed 'assays' often teach dependence on God, as seen with David, while divinely orchestrated ones showcase God's power. The concept reinforces that salvation and kingdom advancement are God's work; human ventures succeed only when aligned with His purpose. It touches on themes of testing, faith versus presumption, and the grace that guides and sometimes prevents human plans for a greater good.
Historical Background
The English word 'assay' comes from Old French 'assaier,' meaning to try or test. In the 16th and 17th centuries, when the KJV was translated, it was a common term for attempting or examining the quality of something (like assaying metal). The underlying Hebrew (נָסָה, nacah; יָעַל, ya'al) and Greek (πειράζω, peirazō; πειράω, peiraō) words carry meanings of testing, attempting, or proving. Culturally, the biblical narratives reflect a worldview where human actions are measured against divine permission and purpose. Extra-biblical sources from the Ancient Near East and Greco-Roman world show similar concepts of testing and fate, but the biblical presentation is unique in its emphasis on a personal, sovereign God who interacts with human attempts.