As a girl who loves words, I’ve decided that I’m going to do a series of posts on the meanings of Hebrew and Greek words found in Scripture. I’ve discovered that this kind of understanding greatly increases my own appreciation for the intent of a verse. Now before you non-nerdy types freak out, I promise to make it entertaining and applicable. Pinky swear.
First word: TRUST
Hebrew: batach
Here are a couple of times that batach is used in the Old Testament:
The LORD is my strength and my shield;
My heart trusts in Him, and I am helped;
Therefore my heart exults,
And with my song I shall thank Him.
~Psalm 28:7
When I am afraid, I will put my trust in You.
~Psalm 56:3
Sometimes we think we know what a word means. After all, most of us use the word trust frequently and could probably all agree that it means to believe or have confidence in someone/something. Yes! That’s a good, general definition, but the word batach is actually richer than that. It means to confide in anyone, to set one’s hope and confidence upon anyone. And it also means to throw one’s self or cares on anyone.*
If you’ve read any of my posts, you know I love a good word picture and this word provides a beauty. If you’re a parent, you probably remember those days when your kids were toddlers and would cling to your leg with both arms and legs. If you’re like me, you then would walk around the room with a little monster attached to you. You know what I’m talking about, right? Cutest thing ever.
Batach is much like that. When we batach God, we are throwing ourselves on Him, clinging to His giant legs and hanging on for dear life. Why? Because we have confidence in Him. We know that, as our Father, He loves us, and we know He has our best at heart. Why wouldn’t we batach Him?
Trust in Him at all times, O people;
Pour out your heart before Him;
God is a refuge for us.
~Psalm 62:8
In God I have put my trust, I shall not be afraid.
What can man do to me?
~Psalm 56:11
The steadfast of mind You will keep in perfect peace,
Because he trusts in You. ~
Isaiah 26:3
*Gesenius’ Hebrew-Chaldea Lexicon