עֹצֶם

עֹצֶם

power; hence, body

Definition

The Hebrew noun עֹצֶם (ʻôtsem) primarily means 'power' or 'might,' referring to physical strength or force. In Deuteronomy 8:17, it denotes the human 'power' or ability to gain wealth, which the text warns against attributing to oneself instead of God. A secondary, derived meaning is 'body' or 'substance,' as seen in Job 30:21, where it describes God turning cruelly against the speaker's 'frame' or physical being. In Psalm 139:15, this sense is poetically extended to the 'substance' of an embryo, emphasizing God's intimate knowledge of human formation.

Biblical Usage

This word appears only three times in the Old Testament, each in a distinct context. In Deuteronomy 8:17, it is used in a legal/warning context about the danger of self-reliance. In Job 30:21, it appears in poetic lament, describing physical affliction. In Psalm 139:15, it is used in a psalm of praise about God's omniscience, referring to the physical form in the womb. The usage shifts from abstract 'power' to concrete 'body' or 'substance' across these books.

Etymology

Derived from the root עָצַם (ʻāṣam, H6105), meaning 'to be vast, mighty, or numerous.' The noun עֹצֶם carries the core idea of 'strength' or 'might' from this root. Cognates in other Semitic languages also relate to strength or bone, supporting the semantic connection between power and bodily frame.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it highlights the tension between human strength and divine sovereignty. In Deuteronomy 8:17, it warns against the pride of attributing success to one's own 'power,' a key theme in biblical humility before God. In Psalm 139:15, it underscores the doctrine of God as Creator, intimately involved in forming human life. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches reading by connecting the concept of physical strength ('might') with physical existence ('body'), both ultimately dependent on God. In ancient Israelite culture, 'power' (עֹצֶם) was often associated with military might, economic prosperity, or physical vigor—assets highly valued but also seen as gifts from God. The semantic link between 'power' and 'body' reflects a holistic view where strength was inseparable from one's physical being. This differs from some modern abstractions that separate capability from corporeal existence. כֹּחַ (kōaḥ, H3581) — general term for strength or ability, often more broad. גְּבוּרָה (gᵊḇûrâ, H1369) — emphasizes might, especially in battle or heroic deeds. עָז (ʻāz, H5797) — denotes strength, force, or fierceness, often of God.

Word Details