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H5332 · Hebrew · Old Testament
נֵצַח
netsach
Noun, masculine
perpetuity, victory, enduring, eminence

Definition

Netsach is a multivalent word meaning perpetuity (forever/always), victory, eminence, or strength. Appearing over 40 times, it is used both temporally ('forever, to the end') and as a quality ('surpassing, preeminent'). In the Psalms it often appears as 'forever' — 'Will the Lord reject forever? Will he never show his favor again?' (Ps 77:7). It is also used for victory in battle and for the 'choirmaster' (menatseach — the preeminent one) in Psalm superscriptions.

Usage & Theological Significance

The multivalence of netsach is theologically rich. When Samuel calls God 'the Netsach of Israel' — the Victory/Glory/Eternal One — he is speaking of God's unchangeable character as the ground for Israel's trust. God's 'forevernesss' is not merely temporal but qualitative: He is eminently, surpassingly, victoriously God. The choir director (menatseach) in the Psalms is the one who leads praise to the Eternal Victor.

Key Bible Verses

1 Samuel 15:29 He who is the Glory [netsach] of Israel does not lie or change his mind; for he is not a human being, that he should change his mind.
Psalm 13:1 How long, LORD? Will you forget me forever [netsach]? How long will you hide your face from me?
Psalm 77:7 Will the Lord reject me forever [netsach]? Will he never show his favor again?
Amos 8:7 The LORD has sworn by himself, the Pride [netsach] of Jacob: 'I will never forget anything they have done.'
Isaiah 34:10 It will lie desolate; no one will ever pass through it again [netsach].

Related Words

External Resources

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