### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chêmeth**, represented by `{{H2573}}`, refers to a **bottle**, specifically a skin bottle used for holding liquids. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses**. Its meaning is derived from its function as a tied-up container, often holding life-sustaining water.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H2573}}` is most prominent in the story of Hagar and Ishmael. When Abraham sends them away, he provides them with a **bottle** of water for their journey [[Genesis 21:14]]. The narrative reaches its crisis point when the water in the **bottle** is gone [[Genesis 21:15]]. God then intervenes, revealing a well so Hagar can fill the **bottle** again and save her son [[Genesis 21:19]]. The word is also used in a negative context in Habakkuk, which warns against the one who uses his **bottle** to make his neighbor drunk [[Habakkuk 2:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and function of the **bottle**:
* `{{H4325}}` **mayim** (water): This is the essential substance carried within the **bottle** in the Genesis account. The presence or absence of **water** drives the entire narrative of survival ([[Genesis 21:15]], [[Genesis 21:19]]).
* `{{H3615}}` **kâlâh** (to end... be finished, perish... consume): This verb is used to describe the moment the water was "spent" from the **bottle**, marking the point of desperation and the end of Hagar's provisions [[Genesis 21:15]].
* `{{H8248}}` **shâqâh** (to... cause to... drink): This word describes the primary purpose of the water in the **bottle**. It is used positively when Hagar gives her son a drink [[Genesis 21:19]] and negatively in the warning against giving a neighbor drink to intoxicate him [[Habakkuk 2:15]].
### Theological Significance
The conceptual weight of `{{H2573}}` is tied to its role as a vessel of critical resources.
* **Provision and Survival:** The **bottle** is a key instrument of provision. It holds the water Abraham gives to Hagar and is the vessel she refills after God's intervention, directly enabling survival [[Genesis 21:19]].
* **Human Limitation:** The empty **bottle** symbolizes the limits of human preparation and the onset of despair. When the water was "spent," Hagar's hope was lost until divine help arrived [[Genesis 21:15]].
* **Instrument of Malice:** In contrast to its life-sustaining role in Genesis, the **bottle** in Habakkuk is an instrument of deception and harm, used to exploit a neighbor [[Habakkuk 2:15]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2573}}` is more than a simple object. It is a powerful symbol in Scripture representing the container of finite, life-giving resources. Its state—whether full or empty—dictates moments of survival and despair. The **bottle** illustrates a duality, serving as a vessel for both divine provision in a time of need and for human wickedness in a moment of temptation.
TRV