### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]]).
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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