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H6878 · Hebrew · Old Testament
צֹרֶךְ
tsorek
Noun Masculine
need / necessity

Definition

Tsorek (H6878) means need or necessity — appearing rarely in the OT (Proverbs and Chronicles) but carrying significant theological weight in defining what is truly required. It frames conversations about sufficiency, provision, and what God's economy considers essential.

Usage & Theological Significance

The language of tsorek ('need/necessity') opens a window into biblical economics. David commands provision for the temple precisely 'according to the need' of the work (1 Chr 22:19; cf. 2 Chr 2:16). God's people are not called to abundance for its own sake but to sufficiency for mission. Proverbs 21:5 frames the diligent person as one whose plans lead to profit. The New Testament echoes this — 'my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus' (Phil 4:19). God is precisely attentive to what is actually needed.

Key Bible Verses

2 Chronicles 2:16 We will cut whatever timber you need from Lebanon and bring it to you in rafts.
Proverbs 21:5 The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.
Philippians 4:19 And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.
2 Chronicles 2:9 The house I am to build will be great and wonderful. So provide me cedar, cypress, and sandalwood timber from Lebanon, for I know your servants know how to cut timber in Lebanon.
Matthew 6:32 For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all.

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External Resources

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