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