סָתַר

The Hebrew verb *satar* denotes the act of hiding or concealing. It carries a broad semantic range, encompassing both literal hiding for protection or escape, and figurative hiding, such as God's face being hidden from people due to their sin. The action can be performed by humans, as when one hides oneself from danger or conceals an object, or by God, as when he hides his face, signifying displeasure or a withdrawal of his favor. The context often clarifies whether the hiding is voluntary or involuntary, protective or punitive.

The theological weight of *satar* is significant, particularly in instances where God is the subject. When God hides his face, it is often a consequence of human sin and carries implications of judgment, abandonment, or a lack of divine intervention. Conversely, humans hide from God when they are aware of their wrongdoing, or they seek to be hidden *by* God for protection from their enemies or from evil. The concept of God hiding his eyes from something can also mean that he chooses not to see or remember it, as in the forgiveness of sins.

Key biblical usage demonstrates this range. Individuals might hide themselves to escape danger (1 Kings 17:3) or as a result of their own prudence (Proverbs 22:3). However, a prominent theme is the hiding of God's face. This can be a source of lament and distress for the righteous (Psalm 102:2) and a clear consequence for the wicked (Isaiah 59:2). Yet, there is also the plea for God to hide his face *from* sins, representing a desire for forgiveness (Psalm 51:9). The term also appears in a more neutral sense of objective concealment, such as troubles being hidden from one's eyes (Isaiah 65:16).