The Hebrew word atsil (אָצִיל) means extremity or corner, but also carries the sense of a noble or distinguished person — one set apart at the highest levels. From the root atsal meaning to withdraw or set apart, it suggests someone separated out for honor or leadership.
Atsil appears in descriptions of Israelite leaders who ascended Sinai and beheld God (Exodus 24:11 — translated 'nobles' or 'chief men'). These were ordinary people who were set apart to encounter the living God. This points to the remarkable grace of God in bringing selected humans into His presence. The New Testament fulfillment is radical: through Christ, all believers become a 'royal priesthood' with access to God.