The Hebrew word demaʻ, represented by H1831, literally means a tear, but is used figuratively in scripture to refer to juice or liquor. It is a very specific term, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible, where it denotes a type of liquid offering.
The single biblical use of H1831 is found in Exodus 22:29, within a set of laws concerning offerings to God. The command states, "Thou shalt not delay to offer the first of thy ripe fruits, and of thy liquors." In this context, demaʻ refers to the juice or liquid produce from a harvest, which the Israelites were commanded to give to God as an offering. It is presented alongside the first ripe fruits and is immediately followed by the command to also give the firstborn sons to the Lord, emphasizing its place within the sacred laws of firstfruits.
Several related words from its sole context help clarify its meaning and significance:
- H4395 mᵉlêʼâh (first of ripe fruits): This word for abundance (of produce) is paired directly with demaʻ. The offering consists of both the solid "ripe fruits" and the liquid "liquors," showing that the first portion of the entire harvest was to be consecrated Exodus 22:29.
- H309 'âchar (delay): This root word, meaning to loiter or procrastinate, introduces the command. The instruction not to delay the offering of demaʻ highlights the urgency and importance of giving God His portion promptly Exodus 22:29.
- H1060 bᵉkôwr (firstborn): The law concerning demaʻ is linked to the law of the firstborn. This connection places the liquid offering within the highest category of consecrated gifts, signifying that the very first and best of all things—produce and progeny alike—belong to God Exodus 22:29.
The theological weight of H1831 is derived entirely from its singular, specific context.
- The Principle of Firstfruits: The offering of demaʻ is a clear application of the firstfruits principle, where the first and best of God's provision is returned to Him in acknowledgment of His ownership over all things Exodus 22:29.
- Urgency in Worship: The command is framed by a prohibition against delay, "Thou shalt not slack to pay it" Deuteronomy 23:21. This underscores that obedience in worship and tithing is not to be procrastinated.
- Consecration of the Harvest: By specifying both "ripe fruits" and "liquors," the law signifies that every form of agricultural blessing is to be recognized as a gift from God, and a portion is to be dedicated back to Him.
In summary, while H1831 demaʻ is an exceedingly rare word, its one appearance is significant. It functions within the legal framework of Exodus to define a liquid offering from the harvest. Its usage reinforces the foundational theological concepts of firstfruits, prompt obedience, and the complete consecration of God's blessings back to Him, demonstrating how even a single word can illuminate key principles of biblical law and worship.
TRV