The meaning of “zebach” (H2077) — זֶבַח
Understanding zebach reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
offer(-ing), sacrifice. - properly, a slaughter, i.e. the flesh of an animal - by implication, a sacrifice (the victim o...
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Word Study: זֶבַח (zebach)
Root Meaning
The root of זֶבַח (zebach) comes from the verb זָבַח (zâbach), meaning to kill or slaughter, especially in the context of offering or sacrifice. This root conveys not merely the act of killing but specifically the ritualistic slaughter of an animal as a sacred offering. The literal sense emphasizes the physical act of slaughtering as integral to the sacrificial process, highlighting the tangible and costly nature of worship beyond abstract notions of sacrifice.
Usage in Scripture
The word זֶבַח appears 162 times in the Hebrew Scriptures, primarily translated as 'sacrifice' or variations thereof, such as 'offerings' and 'sacrifices.' Its use consistently refers to the sacrificial victim or the act of offering, often involving the slaughter of animals for religious purposes. This range of translations underscores the term's broad application to various types of sacrifices, including covenant, thank offerings, and the Passover, reflecting its central role in Israelite worship.
Theological Significance
Understanding זֶבַח in its original sense deepens our appreciation for the costly nature of sacrifice in the biblical covenant relationship. It reminds believers that sacrifice involves giving up something valuable, often life itself, pointing forward to Christ's ultimate sacrifice. The physical act of slaughtering an animal prefigures the once-for-all atonement accomplished by Jesus, who embodies the perfect זֶבַח, fulfilling and surpassing all Old Testament offerings. This word thus anchors the believer's faith in the reality of substitutionary sacrifice and God's provision for righteousness.
Reflection: Genesis 31:54
“Then Jacob offered sacrifice upon the mount, and called his brethren to eat bread: and they did eat bread, and tarried all night in the mount. offered: or, killed beasts”
Genesis 31:54 recounts how Jacob 'offered sacrifice upon the mount' and invited his brethren to share bread, indicating a covenantal meal following a solemn offering. The use of זֶבַח here highlights the act of slaughtering or offering as a foundational moment of fellowship and divine encounter. It shows that sacrifice was not only a ritual act but also a communal event symbolizing peace and reconciliation under God's covenant.
Related Words
Theological Word Study: Sacrifice
Old Testament Usage
Meaning: Sacrifice, offering
The Hebrew zevach (זֶבַח) denotes a sacrifice or offering—an animal slaughtered for worship. Old Testament sacrifices foreshadowed Christ, 'the Lamb of God' (John 1:29).
New Testament Usage
Meaning: Sacrifice, offering
The Greek thusia (θυσία) means sacrifice or offering. Christ offered Himself as the perfect sacrifice 'once for all' (Hebrews 10:10), ending the need for repeated animal sacrifices.
זֶבַח
offer(-ing), sacrifice. - properly, a slaughter, i.e. the flesh of an animal - by implication, a sacrifice (the victim or the act) 1) sacrifice 1a) sacrifices of righteousness 1b) sacrifices of strife 1c) sacrifices to dead things 1d) the covenant sacrifice 1e) the passover 1f) annual sacrifice 1g) thank offering