from the same as אֲגַם; a marshy pool (others from a different root, a kettle); by implication; a bulrush (as growing there); collectively a rope of bulrushes; bulrush, caldron, hook, rush.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼagmôwn**, represented by `{{H100}}`, carries a range of meanings including **bulrush**, **caldron**, **hook**, and **rush**. It appears 5 times across 5 unique verses. The word is used both to describe a plant, often symbolizing something lowly or pliant, and to denote man-made objects like a hook or a pot.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, `{{H100}}` is used in several distinct contexts. As a plant, it serves as a powerful metaphor for false piety, where one might **bow down** his head "as a **bulrush**" in an outward show of fasting without genuine repentance [[Isaiah 58:5]]. In prophecies of judgment against Israel and Egypt, the **rush** is paired with the "tail" to symbolize the lowest and most common members of society, who will be cut off along with the "head" and "branch" ([[Isaiah 9:14]], [[Isaiah 19:15]]). In the book of Job, the word shifts to describe objects, first as a **hook** one might use to tame a great beast [[Job 41:2]] and then as a **caldon** to describe smoke coming from the nostrils of the Leviathan [[Job 41:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{H100}}` in its various contexts:
* `{{H7218}}` **rôʼsh** (the head): This word is used in direct contrast to `{{H100}}` as "rush" to signify the entire social structure, from the leadership to the common people, who will face judgment [[Isaiah 9:14]].
* `{{H3712}}` **kippâh** (branch): Used in parallel with "rush", **branch** represents a higher social class than the rush, yet both are targeted for destruction in God's judgment upon a nation [[Isaiah 19:15]].
* `{{H3721}}` **kâphaph** (to bow down): This verb describes the physical act that a person's head performs to imitate a `{{H100}}` bulrush, illustrating the physical posture of insincere worship [[Isaiah 58:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H100}}` is demonstrated through its metaphorical applications.
* **Symbol of False Humility:** The image of bowing one's head like a **bulrush** serves as a divine rebuke of superficial religious acts. It highlights the difference between outward gestures, like fasting with **sackcloth** `{{H8242}}` and **ashes** `{{H665}}`, and the true righteousness God desires [[Isaiah 58:5]].
* **Object of Divine Judgment:** As the "rush" set in opposition to the "head", it represents the vulnerable and lowly who are not spared when God chooses to **cut off** `{{H3772}}` a nation for its sins, showing the comprehensive nature of his judgment [[Isaiah 9:14]].
* **Measure of Divine Power:** In Job, the use of `{{H100}}` as a **hook** in the rhetorical question about taming Leviathan emphasizes humanity's weakness in contrast to the untamable power of God's creation [[Job 41:2]]. The imagery of a boiling **caldon** reinforces the creature's fearsome and powerful nature [[Job 41:20]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H100}}` is a versatile term that scripture uses to convey significant spiritual concepts. Whether as a pliant **bulrush** symbolizing hollow piety, a humble **rush** representing the lowest in society facing judgment, or as a **hook** and **caldon** illustrating God's immense power over creation, **ʼagmôwn** demonstrates how everyday objects and plants are infused with deep theological meaning. It effectively communicates lessons on worship, judgment, and the sovereignty of God.
TRV