The Hebrew word chămîyshîy, represented by H2549, is an ordinal number meaning fifth, or a fraction meaning a fifth part. Derived from the word for five, it appears 45 times across 44 verses. Its usage is precise, serving to establish sequence, mark time, and define specific portions in legal and administrative contexts.
The formation of H2549 as an ordinal from its cardinal root H2568 'five' underscores the inherent precision and structured thinking embedded within the Hebrew numerical system. Unlike simple counting, an ordinal such as chămîyshîy does not merely quantify but inherently places an item within a sequence, implying a deliberate order or progression. This semantic nuance is crucial for understanding its role in establishing chronological markers, hierarchical arrangements, and exact legal specifications, where the precise position or proportion is paramount to the meaning and application of the text.
In biblical narratives, H2549 is used to denote order and specific timing. It marks the fifth day of creation Genesis 1:23 and is frequently used to identify the fifth son in a lineage, such as with Jacob's son Genesis 30:17 and David's son Shephatiah 2 Samuel 3:4. The "fifth month" is particularly significant, being a time of national fasting and mourning Zechariah 7:3, but also a month of key historical events like the fall of Jerusalem Jeremiah 1:3 and the death of Aaron Numbers 33:38. As a fraction, a "fifth part" is a crucial component of Levitical law, often required to be added for restitution or redemption of sanctified items or tithes (Leviticus 5:16, Leviticus 27:31).
Beyond its foundational uses, H2549 marks pivotal historical moments, such as the fifth year of King Rehoboam when Shishak of Egypt attacked Jerusalem 1 Kings 14:25, 2 Chronicles 12:2, a punitive act for Judah's transgression. It also designates the fifth year of Jehoiachin's captivity, which serves as the precise chronological anchor for Ezekiel's prophetic call and visions Ezekiel 1:2. Furthermore, the fifth can denote specific offerings, as seen with the prince of Simeon's offering on the fifth day during the dedication of the tabernacle Numbers 7:36, and the detailed prescriptions for sacrifices on the fifth day of the Feast of Tabernacles Numbers 29:26. In economic administration, the concept of a fifth part was famously implemented by Joseph in Egypt to ensure national sustenance during famine Genesis 47:24, showcasing its practical application in foresight and resource management.
Several related words provide context for the numbering and legal applications associated with H2549:
- H7243 rᵉbîyʻîy (fourth): As the preceding ordinal number, it often appears alongside "fifth" in genealogies and lists, establishing a clear sequence, as seen in the list of David's sons 2 Samuel 3:4 and the designated fasts Zechariah 8:19.
- H7637 shᵉbîyʻîy (seventh): This ordinal is used in conjunction with "fifth" to mark significant periods of time, particularly the months of fasting observed by the people of Judah Zechariah 7:5.
- H6224 ʻăsîyrîy (tenth): Occurring with "fourth," "fifth," and "seventh," this term completes the list of fasts that the LORD promises will become cheerful feasts for the house of Judah Zechariah 8:19.
- H3254 yâçaph (add): This verb is consistently paired with the "fifth part" in legal contexts, signifying the action required to add a portion for making amends or redeeming property (Leviticus 6:5, Numbers 5:7).
- H2568 châmêsh (five): This is the cardinal number from which H2549 is formed, representing the quantitative base for the ordinal 'fifth' and underpinning the numerical structure.
The theological significance of H2549 is demonstrated through its application in divine order, remembrance, and restoration.
- Divine Order: The use of "fifth" organizes society and worship according to a divine pattern. This is seen in the allocation of the fifth lot to the tribe of Asher Joshua 19:24, the appointment of the fifth priestly course to Malchijah 1 Chronicles 24:9, and the command over the fifth division of the army 1 Chronicles 27:8.
- Sacred Remembrance: The fifth month serves as a marker for communal memory, specifically recalling the destruction of Jerusalem Jeremiah 52:12. The fasts of the fifth month were a practice of national mourning Zechariah 7:5 that the LORD would one day turn to joy Zechariah 8:19.
- Principle of Restitution: The law requiring the addition of a "fifth part" for a trespass offering Leviticus 5:16 or for redeeming a sanctified field Leviticus 27:19 establishes a principle of restoration that goes beyond simple repayment, acknowledging the gravity of an offense against God or others.
- Divine Provision/Cycles of Blessing: The designation of the fifth year in agricultural law highlights a divine principle of patient waiting and future blessing. Only after four years of fruit being uncircumcised or holy to the Lord could the fruit of a newly planted tree be eaten in the fifth year, ensuring increased yield and signifying God's ultimate provision Leviticus 19:25. This concept of strategic foresight and divine blessing is also exemplified by Joseph's policy in Egypt, where collecting a fifth part of the land's produce during years of plenty secured the nation's survival during famine Genesis 47:24.
The Hebrew word H2549 chămîyshîy serves as a vital numerical designator, functioning both as the ordinal "fifth" and the fractional "fifth part." Rooted in the cardinal number H2568 'five,' it establishes sequence, marks specific periods of time, and defines precise portions within legal and administrative frameworks throughout the Old Testament. Its consistent application across 44 verses underscores the meticulous nature of biblical record-keeping and divine instruction.
Contextual analysis reveals H2549 structuring significant aspects of Israelite life and history. It anchors the creation narrative on the fifth day, delineates genealogies with the fifth son, and marks the fifth month as a period of profound national memory, encompassing both mourning for Jerusalem's destruction and the promise of future joy. Beyond these, it pinpoints critical historical events like Shishak's invasion in Rehoboam's fifth year and Ezekiel's prophetic call in Jehoiachin's fifth year, further illustrating its role in chronological precision. The "fifth part" is a recurrent legal term, mandating specific restitution amounts and tax contributions, demonstrating its practical import in justice and economic stewardship.
Theologically, H2549 embodies several core principles. It reflects divine order in the structured allocation of lots, priestly courses, and military divisions. It promotes sacred remembrance through the commemorative fasts of the fifth month, recalling national tragedy and divine faithfulness. Furthermore, the requirement of adding a "fifth part" for restitution exemplifies a principle of restoration that extends beyond mere repayment, emphasizing the gravity of offenses and the path to reconciliation.
Ultimately, H2549 also illuminates the theme of Divine Provision and Cycles of Blessing. The fifth year of fruit trees signifies a period of patient waiting for God's appointed time of abundance, while the "fifth part" collected by Joseph in Egypt showcases divinely inspired foresight for sustained well-being. Thus, chămîyshîy is far more than a simple number; it is a foundational element that defines sacred history, structures societal roles, underpins principles of divine justice, and reveals God's meticulous care and provision for His people.
TRV