← Back to Lexicon
H949 · Hebrew · Old Testament
בֹּצֵץ
Botsetz
Proper Noun
Bozez; a rocky crag near Michmash

Definition

Botsetz (בֹּצֵץ) is the name of one of two sharp rocky crags flanking the pass at Michmash, mentioned in 1 Samuel 14:4 in the account of Jonathan's daring solo attack on the Philistine garrison. The name likely means 'shining' or 'glistening,' referring to the bright limestone surface of the rock. The two crags were named Botsetz and Seneh — 'Shining' and 'Thorn' — geographical markers in a landscape that became the site of miraculous victory.

Usage & Theological Significance

The episode at Botsetz is one of the most dramatic faith narratives in Samuel. Jonathan said to his armor-bearer, 'Come, let us go over to the outpost of those uncircumcised men. Perhaps the LORD will act for us, for nothing can hinder the LORD from saving, whether by many or by few' (1 Samuel 14:6). The physical setting — two men climbing a cliff between shining rocks while an entire Philistine army waited — makes the miracle more vivid. God used the audacious faith of two men to rout an army, causing earthquake-like panic among the Philistines.

Key Bible Verses

1 Samuel 14:4 On each side of the pass that Jonathan intended to cross to reach the Philistine outpost there was a rocky crag; one was called Bozez and the other Seneh.
1 Samuel 14:6 Jonathan said to his young armor-bearer, 'Come, let's go over to the outpost of those uncircumcised men. Perhaps the LORD will act in our behalf.'
1 Samuel 14:15 Then panic struck the whole army — those in the camp and field, and those in the outposts and raiding parties — and the ground shook.
Judges 7:7 The LORD said to Gideon, 'With the three hundred men that lapped I will save you and give the Midianites into your hands.'
2 Corinthians 4:7 But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.

Related Words

External Resources

🌙
☀️