The Hebrew word chemer, represented by H2561, is a term for wine, specifically as that which ferments, and can be used as an idiom for pure, red wine. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. Its usage connects it to concepts of divine blessing and the rich produce of the land.
In the biblical narrative, H2561 is used to denote wine of a high quality. In the Song of Moses, it is part of a list of the rich provisions God bestowed upon Israel, where the people "didst drink the pure blood of the grape" Deuteronomy 32:14. In Isaiah, the term is used metaphorically in a song about "A vineyard of red wine" Isaiah 27:2, symbolizing something precious and fruitful that God cherishes.
Several related words provide context for the production and significance of this wine:
- H1818 dâm (blood (as that which when shed causes death) of man or an animal; by analogy, the juice of the grape): This term is poetically linked to H2561 in the phrase "the pure blood of the grape" Deuteronomy 32:14, portraying wine as the very essence of the fruit.
- H3754 kerem (a garden or vineyard): This word supplies the agricultural setting for H2561. The "vineyard of red wine" Isaiah 27:2 is a symbol of a prized entity, and the Bible elsewhere identifies the vineyard of the LORD with the house of Israel Isaiah 5:7.
- H6025 ʻênâb (a grape): As the source of wine, this word is foundational to understanding H2561. The "blood of the grape" Deuteronomy 32:14 is the raw material that becomes the pure wine, representing agricultural blessing.
The thematic significance of H2561 is tied to its representation of richness and favor.
- Emblem of Divine Provision: The appearance of H2561 in Deuteronomy 32:14 is part of a list detailing the immense bounty God provided for His people. It is presented alongside other choice products like the "fat H2459 of kidneys of wheat" H2406 and "butter H2529 of kine," signifying the highest quality of provision.
- Metaphor for God's Cherished People: In Isaiah, the "vineyard of red wine" H2561 is the subject of a song, portraying Israel as a people precious to and cared for by God Isaiah 27:2. This aligns with the broader biblical theme of God's people as His vineyard.
In summary, while H2561 appears infrequently, chemer carries significant weight. It is not just any wine, but is described as "pure" or "red," indicating exceptional quality. Its usage illustrates both the tangible blessings of God's provision in the form of rich produce Deuteronomy 32:14 and the symbolic value of a beloved people represented as a precious vineyard Isaiah 27:2. The word encapsulates a sense of richness and divine favor.
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