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H2892 · Hebrew · Old Testament
טֹהַר
Tohar
Noun, masculine
Purity / Brightness

Definition

The Hebrew noun tohar denotes purity, cleanness, or brightness — both in the physical/ritual sense and the moral/ethical sense. It is the noun form derived from the verb taher (to be clean/pure). The word encompasses cleanness from ritual impurity (Lev 12), moral purity in conduct, and the shining brightness of precious stones.

Usage & Theological Significance

Tohar points to the holiness required for approaching God. In Exodus 24:10, the pavement under God's feet had the brightness of tohar — lapis lazuli — suggesting divine splendor. The purification rites in Leviticus 12 use tohar for the completion of a woman's cleansing after childbirth. Theologically, purity is not optional for covenant relationship: it is the condition for access to the holy God. Christ's atonement is the ultimate fulfillment — purifying believers completely (Heb 1:3; 1 John 1:7).

Key Bible Verses

Exodus 24:10 They saw the God of Israel. Under his feet was something like a pavement made of lapis lazuli, as bright and pure as the sky itself.
Leviticus 12:4 Then the woman must wait thirty-three days to be purified from her bleeding.
Job 22:30 He will deliver even one who is not innocent, who will be delivered through the cleanness of your hands.
Psalm 18:20 The LORD has dealt with me according to my righteousness; according to the cleanness of my hands he has rewarded me.
Proverbs 22:11 One who loves a pure heart and who speaks with grace will have the king for a friend.

Related Words

External Resources

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