from an unused root probably meaning to inclose; the skin of a grape; husk.
Transliteration:zâg
Pronunciation:zawg
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma זָג (zâg), transliterated as *zâg*, is derived from an unused root that likely carries the semantic idea of "to enclose." Its primary definition is "the skin of a grape" or "husk." This points to an outer covering, a protective layer that encases something more valuable or vulnerable within. The core concept conveyed is that of an external boundary or a container, specifically the outermost layer of a fruit.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word זָג (zâg) appears only once in the entire Hebrew Bible, specifically in the book of Numbers.
* **[[Numbers 6:4]]**: "all the days of his separation he shall eat nothing that is made of the grapevine, from the seeds even to the skin."
This verse is part of the detailed regulations concerning the Nazirite vow. The Nazirite was to abstain completely from all products of the grapevine as a sign of their absolute dedication and separation unto the Lord. The phrase "from the seeds even to the skin" (מֵחַרְצַנִּים וְעַד־זָג) functions as a merism, signifying the absolute totality and comprehensiveness of this prohibition. It means "everything" from the grapevine, from the innermost part (the seeds, `{{H2786}}`) to the outermost and often discarded part (the skin, זָג). The singular occurrence of זָג (zâg) in such a specific and detailed legal context underscores the meticulous nature of divine command and the thoroughness required for Nazirite consecration.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **Grapevine (גֶּפֶן - `{{H1612}}`):** The direct context of זָג (zâg) inextricably links it to the grapevine, a highly significant plant in biblical imagery, often symbolizing Israel (e.g., [[Psalm 80:8]], [[Isaiah 5:1-7]]).
* **Seeds (חַרְצַנִּים - `{{H2786}}`):** Paired with זָג (zâg) in [[Numbers 6:4]], these two words form a powerful merism, representing the entirety of the grapevine's products, from the innermost to the outermost.
* **Separation/Consecration (נָזִיר - `{{H5139}}`, נֶזֶר - `{{H5145}}`):** The Nazirite vow, in which זָג (zâg) appears, is fundamentally about being "set apart" or "consecrated" to the Lord. The prohibition of even the זָג (zâg) emphasizes the complete and unreserved nature of this separation.
* **Completeness/Totality:** The use of זָג (zâg) in conjunction with "seeds" conveys the idea of "everything" or "the whole range," akin to an idiom for absolute prohibition.
### Theological Significance
The singular yet precise appearance of זָג (zâg) carries profound theological weight, particularly within the context of holiness and obedience:
* **Holiness and Absolute Separation:** The prohibition against consuming even the "skin of a grape" for the Nazirite underscores the principle of absolute separation unto God. It teaches that true consecration involves a meticulous adherence to divine commands, extending even to what might seem trivial or insignificant. The Nazirite's dedication was to be total, leaving no part of the forbidden item untouched.
* **Divine Meticulousness and Comprehensive Law:** God's law is not vague or general; it is precise and comprehensive. The inclusion of זָג (zâg) demonstrates the exhaustive nature of God's requirements for holiness, leaving no room for ambiguity, partial obedience, or human rationalization of what constitutes "minor" transgressions.
* **Symbolic Purity and Dedication:** While the זָג (zâg) itself is not inherently impure, its prohibition in this specific ritual context elevates the concept of ritual purity and complete abstinence as a tangible sign of dedication. It highlights that the act of separation is holistic, encompassing even the outermost and often discarded parts of a forbidden item.
* **Obedience in Detail:** The word serves as a powerful reminder that obedience to God's commands is not merely about broad strokes but about attention to detail. It conveys that even the "small" things matter in the pursuit of holiness and that true devotion involves a commitment to every aspect of God's will.
### Summary
The Hebrew word זָג (zâg), meaning "grape skin" or "husk," appears uniquely in [[Numbers 6:4]] as part of the Nazirite vow regulations. Its inclusion alongside "seeds" (מֵחַרְצַנִּים וְעַד־זָג) forms a merism, signifying the absolute totality of the prohibition against consuming any product of the grapevine. Theologically, זָג (zâg) powerfully illustrates the meticulousness of divine law and the comprehensive nature of separation required for holiness. It emphasizes that true consecration involves complete abstinence from the forbidden, extending even to the seemingly insignificant parts, thereby underscoring the principle of detailed obedience in devotion to God.
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