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The Hebrew word זֶ֫בַח (zebach) - Strong's H2077 - is a noun derived from the verb זָבַח (zabach) we just saw. While H2076 (zabach) is the verb "to sacrifice," H2077 (zebach) is the noun that refers to the "sacrifice" itself.
from H2076; properly slaughter, i.e., the flesh of an animal; by implication a sacrifice (the victim or act):- immolate, consecration, offer, offering, sacrifice, sacrifice, victim.
In the biblical context, זֶ֫בַח (zebach) has the following connotations:
Basic meaning: It is the sacrifice or sacrificial offering itself, the result of the act of sacrificing.
Specific Types: Although it can refer to sacrifices in general, it often specifically designates the "peace offering" or "communion offering" (שְׁלָמִים - shelamim), where part of the animal was burned on the altar, another part was for the priests, and another part was consumed by the offerers at a festive meal. Element of Communion: Unlike the holocaust (עֹלָה - olah), which was completely burned, the זֶ֫בַח (zebach) frequently included a shared meal, symbolizing communion with God. Ritual Context: It appears in numerous ritual prescriptions in the Pentateuch, especially in Leviticus. Use in the Psalms: It is frequently mentioned in the Psalms in contexts of praise and gratitude. Prophetic Dimension: The prophets frequently contrasted the value of these ritual sacrifices (זֶ֫בַח) with obedience to God and social justice, pointing out that God prefers obedience to empty ritual sacrifices (e.g., in 1 Samuel 15:22; Hosea 6:6). This term is fundamental to understanding the Israelite worship system and the people's relationship with God through acts of devotion and ritual atonement. |