The Hebrew word gargar, represented by H1620, is a highly specific term for a berry. It appears only 1 time across 1 unique verse in the entire Bible. Its meaning is derived from the imagery of a single berry left after a harvest, illustrating a very small remainder.
The sole use of H1620 is found in Isaiah 17:6, where it contributes to a prophecy concerning a remnant. The verse describes that after a judgment, a few survivors will be left, much like "two or three berries in the top of the uppermost bough, four or five in the outmost fruitful branches" that remain after the shaking of an olive tree. This imagery paints a vivid picture of a sparse but divinely preserved remnant, as declared by "the LORD God of Israel" Isaiah 17:6.
Several related words from its context in Isaiah 17:6 help clarify its meaning:
- H2132 zayith (olive): This is the tree upon which the berry H1620 is found. The olive tree is a symbol of prosperity and a source of essential oil for light (Leviticus 24:2, Psalms 52:8).
- H5363 nôqeph (shaking): This term describes the action of harvesting olives that leaves only a few berries behind. It is used in scripture to symbolize a judgment that leaves a remnant Isaiah 24:13.
- H5955 ʻôlêlâh (gleanings): This word is used in parallel with the leftover berries, referring to the "gleaning grapes" left after the main harvest is complete, reinforcing the theme of a small remainder (Isaiah 17:6, Isaiah 24:13).
The theological weight of H1620 is concentrated entirely in its single appearance, where it functions as a powerful symbol.
- The Preserved Remnant: The primary significance of the word is to illustrate the concept of a remnant. The two or three berries left behind represent the small number of people God promises to spare through judgment Isaiah 17:6.
- God's Mercy in Judgment: While the context is one of divine judgment ("the shaking of an olive tree"), the fact that any berries remain at all points to God's mercy and his commitment to not utterly destroy his people.
- A Sign of Hope: The image of a few berries clinging to the highest, most fruitful branches offers a picture of hope. It signifies that life and future fruitfulness, though greatly diminished, are preserved by God.
In summary, H1620 is a rare biblical word whose significance is magnified by its singular, poignant usage. Though it simply means berry, its placement within the prophecy of Isaiah 17:6 transforms it into a potent symbol. It provides a concrete and memorable image for the profound theological doctrine of the remnant, illustrating that even in judgment, God in His sovereignty preserves a small seed of hope for the future.
TRV