נֵצַח

נֵצַח

juice of the grape (as blood red)

Definition

The Hebrew noun נֵצַח (Nêtsach) primarily refers to the 'juice of the grape,' specifically understood as the red, blood-like liquid extracted from grapes. In its two biblical occurrences, both in Isaiah 63, it is used metaphorically. In Isaiah 63:3, it describes the grape juice staining God's garments as a symbol of judgment, while in Isaiah 63:6, it is paralleled with the 'blood' of the peoples, intensifying the imagery of divine wrath. The word's connection to brilliance or enduring color (from its probable root) enhances this vivid, lasting stain imagery.

Biblical Usage

This word is used exclusively in Isaiah 63:3 and 63:6, within a dramatic prophetic poem depicting the Lord's day of vengeance. In both verses, it appears in a context of trampling grapes in a winepress as a metaphor for God's judgment against enemies. The usage is highly poetic and symbolic, directly linking the juice of the grape to the blood of the judged.

Etymology

נֵצַח (H5332) is likely a by-form or derivative of נֶצַח (H5331), which carries core ideas of 'perpetuity,' 'endurance,' 'glory,' or 'splendor.' The semantic connection may be through the concept of a brilliant, lasting color—the enduring red stain of grape juice. This links the physical substance to ideas of permanence and vividness.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it provides a powerful, concrete image for God's judgment. In Isaiah 63, the 'juice' (נֵצַח) staining God's robes visually communicates the certainty and thoroughness of divine justice against evil. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches the reading of this passage, highlighting that the judgment is not abstract but results in a tangible, staining consequence, foreshadowing the imagery of Revelation 19:13-15. In ancient Israelite culture, wine production was a common agricultural practice. The treading of grapes in a winepress, resulting in pools of dark red juice, was a familiar, vivid sight. This metaphor would have immediately conveyed a sense of overwhelming force and total crushing. The connection between grape juice and blood was a natural symbolic link, making the prophecy of Isaiah 63 powerfully visceral to its original audience. דָּם (dam, H1818) — The common word for 'blood'; נֵצַח is a rare, poetic synonym used specifically for grape juice as a metaphor for blood. יַיִן (yayin, H3196) — The general word for 'wine,' the finished product, whereas נֵצַח is the raw, pressed juice.

Word Details