### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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