The Hebrew word chôwr, represented by H2355, primarily refers to a network. The term is also associated with white linen. It is an exceedingly rare word in the biblical text, appearing just 1 time in 1 unique verse.
The single appearance of H2355 is in Isaiah's prophecy of judgment against Egypt. In the passage, the Lord declares that the nation's skilled laborers will be brought to ruin: "Moreover they that work in fine flax, and they that weave networks, shall be confounded" Isaiah 19:9. Here, networks likely refers to finely woven textiles or latticework, a product of Egyptian craftsmanship. The term's use highlights the comprehensive nature of the prophesied economic collapse, affecting even the most intricate and valued industries.
The context of H2355 in Isaiah 19:9 links it to several other important words related to labor and materials:
- H5647 ʻâbad (to work): This root word means to work or, by implication, to serve. It is used to describe both the physical labor of the Egyptian workers and the spiritual service owed to God Exodus 23:25.
- H8305 sᵉrîyqâh (fine): This term refers to hetchelling or combing flax, a process for preparing fine linen thread. Its only biblical appearance is in this verse Isaiah 19:9.
- H6593 pishteh (flax): This word for the raw material, flax or linen, is often associated with valuable textiles and domestic industry Proverbs 31:13.
- H707 ʼârag (to weave): A primitive root meaning to plait or weave. It is used to describe the creation of sacred items for the tabernacle, such as the coats for Aaron and his sons Exodus 39:27.
- H954 bûwsh (to be ashamed): This verb, translated here as "confounded," means to be ashamed or disappointed. It signifies the ultimate failure and disgrace of those who place their trust in human skill rather than God Psalms 25:3.
While not a theological term in itself, the contextual significance of H2355 is profound. Its use illustrates several key principles:
- Divine Judgment on Human Pride: The networks represent the pinnacle of human skill and economic pride. Their failure is a direct result of divine judgment, showing that no amount of craftsmanship can stand when God pronounces a verdict.
- The Futility of Labor Apart from God: The verse explicitly links the act of weaving networks with the state of being "confounded" H954. This serves as a powerful illustration that human enterprise, when not aligned with God's will, ultimately leads to shame and ruin.
- Sovereignty over Nations: The downfall of Egypt's textile industry, symbolized by its networks, demonstrates God's absolute sovereignty over the economic and political affairs of all nations.
In summary, H2355 is a specific term for networks or fine woven goods whose meaning is entirely derived from its singular context. Appearing only in Isaiah 19:9, it functions as a potent symbol of skilled human industry. Its role in the prophecy of Egypt's fall demonstrates that a nation's economic strength and pride in its craft are subject to God's sovereign judgment and can be brought to nothing.
TRV