### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **gargᵉrôwth**, represented by `{{H1621}}`, refers to the **neck** or **throat**. Derived from a root word meaning to ruminate, it appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses**, exclusively within the book of Proverbs. Its use is primarily figurative, symbolizing a place for displaying one's most cherished values.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H1621}}` consistently portrays the **neck** as a place to wear or bind items of great spiritual worth. It is not just a physical body part but a symbolic location for honor and identity. Wisdom's teachings are described as an ornament of grace and as **chains** about the **neck** [[Proverbs 1:9]]. Similarly, foundational virtues like mercy and truth are to be bound there, just as they are written upon the heart [[Proverbs 3:3]]. This imagery emphasizes keeping divine instruction and character qualities perpetually close, serving as both life for the soul and **grace** to the **neck** [[Proverbs 3:22]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the metaphorical function of the neck:
* `{{H7194}}` **qâshar** (to tie... bind... knit): This word describes the deliberate action of attaching commandments to oneself, both on the **neck** and the heart, signifying a firm, lasting commitment [[Proverbs 6:21]].
* `{{H2580}}` **chên** (graciousness... favor... beauty): This quality is what adorns the **neck**, portraying wisdom and instruction not as a burden but as a beautiful and precious enhancement [[Proverbs 3:22]].
* `{{H3880}}` **livyâh** (something attached... a wreath; ornament): This noun is used to describe the instruction of one's parents, which serves as an **ornament** of grace for the head and accompanies the chains on the **neck** [[Proverbs 1:9]].
* `{{H3820}}` **lêb** (the heart... the feelings, the will and even the intellect): The **neck** is consistently paired with the **heart** as a repository for wisdom. What is bound on the **neck** for external display is first written on the **table** of the **heart** [[Proverbs 3:3]], linking outward identity to inner conviction.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H1621}}` is centered on the embodiment of wisdom:
* **Visible Virtue:** Using the **neck** as a place to bind mercy `{{H2617}}` and truth `{{H571}}` illustrates that internal character should have an outward, visible expression. It serves as an "ornament of grace," showing the beauty of a life guided by divine principles [[Proverbs 1:9]].
* **Constant Remembrance:** The commands to **bind** `{{H7194}}` and **tie** `{{H6029}}` these virtues around the **neck** signify the need for constant, uninterrupted focus on God's law. It is to be kept continually upon the heart and neck [[Proverbs 6:21]].
* **Source of Life and Favor:** Adorning the **neck** with wisdom is not merely decorative; it is directly connected to spiritual vitality. These principles become **life** `{{H2416}}` for the soul `{{H5315}}` and **grace** `{{H2580}}` for the **neck**, indicating that obedience leads to a blessed and favored existence [[Proverbs 3:22]].
### Summary
In summary, **gargᵉrôwth** `{{H1621}}` transcends its literal definition of "neck" to become a powerful metaphor within wisdom literature. It represents the intersection of inner conviction and outward identity. The act of binding instruction, mercy, and truth to the **neck** symbolizes a life where divine wisdom is not only cherished internally in the heart but is also worn externally as a beautiful, life-giving ornament for all to see.
TRV