### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **zimrâh**, represented by `{{H2173}}`, denotes **best fruit**. Derived from a root meaning "pruned" or "choice," it signifies the most select and valuable produce of the land. Its usage is extremely specific, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H2173}}` is in [[Genesis 43:11]], where it plays a crucial role in a moment of desperation. Jacob, also called Israel `{{H3478}}`, instructs his sons on how to appease the powerful ruler of Egypt. He commands them to "take of the **best fruits** in the land in your vessels, and carry down the man a present." This offering included valuable items like balm `{{H6875}}`, honey `{{H1706}}`, spices `{{H5219}}`, myrrh `{{H3910}}`, nuts `{{H992}}`, and almonds `{{H8247}}`, representing the choicest products their land `{{H776}}` could offer.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words from its single context help illuminate the meaning of `{{H2173}}`:
* `{{H776}}` **'erets** (country, earth, field, ground, land): This is the source of the **best fruits**. It represents the ground from which all bounty and provision comes, as established in the creation account [[Genesis 1:1]] and seen as a place of divine promise [[Ezekiel 34:13]].
* `{{H4503}}` **minchâh** (gift, oblation, (meat) offering, present, sacrifice): This defines the purpose for gathering the **best fruits**. The items were not for personal use but were intended as a **present** to show honor and seek favor. This term is also used for sacred offerings to God [[Malachi 3:3]].
* `{{H3947}}` **lâqach** (to take): This is the action Israel commands his sons to perform. It is a deliberate act to **take** or select the finest goods for a specific purpose. The word is used in a wide variety of applications, from God taking a nation for Himself [[Deuteronomy 4:34]] to Job acknowledging that the LORD has "taken away" [[Job 1:21]].
### Theological Significance
Though rare, the theological weight of `{{H2173}}` is found in its application.
* **Principle of Giving the Best:** The instruction in [[Genesis 43:11]] establishes the concept of offering what is most valuable and choice. The **best fruits** were not just any produce but the peak of the land's quality, intended to honor a powerful figure.
* **A Tangible Offering:** The **best fruits** serve as a physical representation of the land's bounty. The specific list of goods—balm, honey, spices, nuts—shows a deliberate selection of valuable commodities to form a meaningful present `{{H4503}}`.
* **Instrument of Reconciliation:** In the narrative, the gift of the **best fruits** is a practical step toward reconciliation and securing favor in a time of distress. It is a means to an end, intended to soften the heart of the Egyptian ruler.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2173}}` **zimrâh** is a highly specific term that, in its single biblical use, powerfully communicates the idea of the "best fruit" of the land. Its context in [[Genesis 43:11]] frames it as a carefully chosen, high-value gift designed to show honor and gain favor. Though its usage is limited, it provides a clear illustration of offering the very choicest of one's possessions.
TRV