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H7522 · Hebrew · Old Testament
רָצוֹן
ratzon
Noun, masculine
favor, delight, will, acceptance, pleasure

Definition

God's good pleasure, favorable disposition, or willing acceptance. Ratzon captures both the subjective delight God takes in something and the objective state of being accepted/favored before him. 'To find ratzon' with God is to be in a state of divine approval. It also describes human desire and will, making it a rich word for the alignment of human will with divine pleasure.

Usage & Theological Significance

The priestly blessing (Num 6:25) invokes God's face shining — essentially, his ratzon. Psalm 30:7 gives the flip side: when God hid his face, the psalmist was troubled. The NT 'good will toward men' in the Christmas angels' song (Luke 2:14) translates eudokia — the Greek equivalent. Isaiah 61's 'year of the LORD's favor' is the ratzon-year — the acceptable time that Jesus announces has arrived (Luke 4:19).

Key Bible Verses

Psalm 5:12 For thou, LORD, wilt bless the righteous; with favour wilt thou compass him as with a shield.
Isaiah 61:2 To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD, and the day of vengeance of our God.
Proverbs 8:35 For whoso findeth me findeth life, and shall obtain favour of the LORD.

Related Words

External Resources

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