### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **châmîyts**, represented by `{{H2548}}`, describes something as **seasoned** or **clean**, specifically referring to high-quality provender. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, making its meaning entirely dependent on its singular, potent context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H2548}}` is found in [[Isaiah 30:24]], within a prophecy of future abundance and restoration. The verse promises that "The **oxen** `{{H504}}` likewise and the **young asses** `{{H5895}}` that **ear** `{{H5647}}` the ground shall **eat** `{{H398}}` **clean** `{{H2548}}` **provender** `{{H1098}}`." This is not ordinary feed; it is so pure it is described as having been **winnowed** `{{H2219}}` with agricultural tools like the **shovel** `{{H7371}}` and the **fan** `{{H4214}}`. This context paints a picture of such great prosperity that even working animals are fed refined, choice grain.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from [[Isaiah 30:24]] illuminate the meaning of **châmîyts**:
* `{{H1098}}` **bᵉlîyl** (provender): This is the mixed feed or fodder given to cattle. It is the object described as "clean" and is also mentioned as the food an ox lows over [[Job 6:5]].
* `{{H2219}}` **zârâh** (winnowed): A root word meaning to toss about or fan. While used here for purifying grain, this term is often used by the prophets to describe God scattering His people in judgment ([[Jeremiah 15:7]], [[Ezekiel 5:12]]), connecting the idea of purification with separation.
* `{{H5647}}` **ʻâbad** (to work/ear): This word describes the labor of the animals tilling the ground. It is the same root used for serving or worshipping God, suggesting a connection between labor and its reward [[Joshua 24:15]].
* `{{H504}}` **ʼeleph** (oxen): This term for an ox can also refer to a family or clan [[Judges 6:15]]. The increase of these animals is a sign of covenant blessing [[Deuteronomy 7:13]].
### Theological Significance
The deeper meaning of `{{H2548}}` is tied to the themes of blessing and purity within its prophetic context.
* **Sign of Lavish Provision:** The use of "clean" or seasoned provender for livestock symbolizes a period of extravagant blessing. It speaks to a prosperity so complete that it overflows to every level of creation, far beyond what is required for basic survival [[Isaiah 30:24]].
* **Product of Refinement:** The provender is "clean" precisely because it has been **winnowed** `{{H2219}}`, a process that separates valuable grain from worthless chaff. This implies that the blessing described is a purified one, the desirable result of a refining process.
* **Care for the Laborer:** That the **oxen** `{{H504}}` and **young asses** `{{H5895}}` who **work** `{{H5647}}` the land receive this special food highlights God's care for those who labor. It suggests that in this time of restoration, all service will be honored and generously rewarded.
### Summary
In summary, **châmîyts** `{{H2548}}`, though rare, offers a vivid snapshot of divine blessing. It signifies more than simple cleanliness; it points to a seasoned, choice, and purified quality. Its singular appearance in scripture uses the feeding of working animals to illustrate a key aspect of God's promised restoration: an abundance so complete and refined that it enriches every corner of life.
TRV