עָצַם

עָצַם

to bind fast, i.e. close (the eyes); intransitively, to be (causatively, make) powerful or numerous; to crunch the bones

Definition

The Hebrew verb עָצַם (ʻâtsam) carries a range of meanings centered on the concepts of strength, abundance, and forceful action. Its primary sense is 'to be or become strong, mighty, or numerous,' often describing the growth and empowerment of people, as with the Israelites in Egypt (Exodus 1:7, 20). A distinct physical sense is 'to break or crush bones,' depicting severe injury (Psalm 53:5). In a figurative sense, it can mean 'to shut or close,' specifically the eyes, implying a deliberate act of ignoring or a state of death (Psalm 69:23).

Biblical Usage

This verb is used 20 times, primarily in narrative and poetic books. The meaning 'to be/become numerous and mighty' is most common, found in historical contexts like Genesis 26:16 and Exodus 1:7. The sense of 'crushing bones' appears in poetic laments (Psalm 53:5). The idiomatic use for 'closing the eyes' occurs in imprecatory psalms (Psalm 69:23) and possibly Job 11:10. It describes both God's action in empowering His people and the violent acts of the wicked.

Etymology

It is a primitive root. As a verb, its core idea relates to being dense, massive, or forceful. It is also a denominative verb from the related noun עֶצֶם (ʻetsem, H6106), meaning 'bone' or 'essence,' which explains the meanings connected to bone-crushing and inherent strength.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it frequently describes God's sovereign blessing in causing His covenant people to multiply and become powerful, fulfilling His promises (Genesis 12:2, Exodus 1:7). Conversely, its use for 'closing the eyes' can symbolize spiritual blindness or divine judgment. Understanding its range highlights both God's nurturing power toward His people and the severe consequences of opposing Him. In ancient Near Eastern culture, numerical increase and physical strength were direct indicators of divine favor and social power. The visceral image of 'crushing bones' communicated total defeat and humiliation, as bones represented a person's strength and very substance. Closing the eyes was not just a physical act but could signify death, refusal to see truth, or an act of cursing. חָזַק (châzaq, H2388) — more common for physical/military strength; גָּבַר (gâbar, H1396) — to prevail or have mastery; רָבָה (râbâh, H7235) — to become many/multiply, focusing on quantity over power.

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