The Hebrew word chômets, represented by H2558, is the term for vinegar. It appears 6 times across 5 unique verses in the Bible. Derived from the word חָמֵץ, it is used to describe an acidic liquid in both literal and figurative contexts, ranging from a simple condiment to a symbol of irritation and scorn.
In its biblical usage, H2558 appears in varied situations. In a display of kindness, Boaz offers it to Ruth as a dip for her bread during the harvest Ruth 2:14. Conversely, it is listed as a forbidden substance for a Nazirite, who must abstain from "vinegar of wine, or vinegar of strong drink" Numbers 6:3. In a lament, the psalmist describes being given vinegar to drink in his thirst as an act of cruelty Psalms 69:21. The Proverbs use it metaphorically to describe an irritant, like "vinegar to the teeth" Proverbs 10:26, and to illustrate an incompatible action, like "vinegar upon nitre" Proverbs 25:20.
Several related words are used in conjunction with H2558 to clarify its meaning and context:
- H3196 yayin: This word for wine is specified as a source for chômets in the Nazirite vow Numbers 6:3.
- H7941 shêkâr: Defined as strong drink, this is another base from which vinegar is made, and it is likewise forbidden to the Nazirite Numbers 6:3.
- H5427 nether: Meaning nitre, this substance is used in a proverb with vinegar to illustrate a pointless and aggravating reaction, as nitre is a mineral potash that effervesces with acid Proverbs 25:20.
- H6227 ʻâshân: This term for smoke is used in parallel with vinegar to describe the irritating effect of a lazy servant Proverbs 10:26.
- H7219 rôʼsh: Meaning gall or poison, it is paired with vinegar as something cruelly given to a person who is suffering Psalms 69:21.
The figurative weight of H2558 is primarily negative, highlighting its acidic and reactive properties.
- An Irritant: The proverb "As vinegar to the teeth, and as smoke to the eyes, so is the sluggard to them that send him" uses chômets to symbolize a grating and unpleasant experience Proverbs 10:26.
- An Aggravating Action: The comparison of singing songs to a heavy heart with pouring "vinegar upon nitre" depicts an action that is not only unhelpful but actively counterproductive, causing a volatile reaction Proverbs 25:20.
- An Instrument of Mockery: When offered to a thirsty person, vinegar is not a gesture of relief but of scorn, especially when presented alongside gall H7219 Psalms 69:21.
- A Symbol of Fermentation: Its inclusion in the Nazirite vow places it in the category of fermented products that are to be avoided during a time of special separation Numbers 6:3.
In summary, H2558 is a word with a distinct dual identity. While it can refer to a simple, everyday substance used in a setting of hospitality, its primary role in Scripture is metaphorical. It serves as a powerful symbol for things that are irritating, inappropriate, or cruel. From a dip for bread to a tool of mockery, chômets demonstrates how a common substance can be imbued with significant figurative meaning depending on its context.
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