### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chânaṭ**, represented by `{{H2590}}`, is a primitive root with a dual meaning related to preservation and maturation. It is used to mean **to spice**, **to embalm**, or **to ripen**. It appears **5 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible, illustrating two distinct applications: the process of embalming the dead and the natural ripening of fruit.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H2590}}` is prominently used in the account of the deaths of the patriarchs in Genesis. Joseph{H3130} commanded his servants{H5650}, the physicians{H7495}, to **embalm** his father{H1} Israel{H3478} [[Genesis 50:2]]. The process is noted to fulfill a period of forty{H705} days{H3117} [[Genesis 50:3]]. Later, after his own death, Joseph was also **embalmed** and placed in a coffin{H727} in Egypt{H4714} [[Genesis 50:26]]. In a completely different context, the word describes the process of ripening in nature. In Song of Solomon, the fig tree{H8384} **putteth forth** its green figs{H6291}, signaling a time of new life and beauty [[Song of Solomon 2:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the contexts in which `{{H2590}}` is used:
* `{{H7495}}` **râphâʼ** (physician, heal): This word, meaning to cure or heal, is used for the physicians who were commanded to embalm Israel [[Genesis 50:2]].
* `{{H1058}}` **bâkâh** (weep, mourn): This term describes the action of the Egyptians who mourned for Israel while the days of embalming were fulfilled [[Genesis 50:3]].
* `{{H8384}}` **tᵉʼên** (fig tree): The subject of the ripening process described by `{{H2590}}`. The fig tree "putteth forth" its green figs, linking the word to agricultural cycles [[Song of Solomon 2:13]].
* `{{H1612}}` **gephen** (vine): Mentioned in parallel with the fig tree, the vine with its tender grape also signifies a time of natural fruition and pleasant aroma [[Song of Solomon 2:13]].
### Theological Significance
The dual meaning of `{{H2590}}` points to significant themes of preservation and transition:
* **Preservation and Honor in Death:** The act of embalming Jacob and Joseph in Egypt was a sign of great honor and importance. Joseph commanded physicians to **embalm** his father, Israel, marking the end of the patriarchal age in Genesis and preserving the body with spices [[Genesis 50:2]]. The practice underscores the transition from life to death and the preparation for what comes after.
* **The Ripening of Life and Love:** In contrast, the use of `{{H2590}}` in Song of Solomon signifies the burgeoning of life. When the fig tree **putteth forth** its figs, it is a sign of spring and fruitfulness [[Song of Solomon 2:13]]. This application points to natural cycles, growth, and the maturation of life, used metaphorically in a context of love and beauty.
* **A Bridge Between Endings and Beginnings:** The word connects the end of life with the beginning of a new season. The forty{H705} days required for embalming [[Genesis 50:3]] marks a defined period of preparation after death, while the ripening of fruit marks a natural transition toward harvest and abundance.
### Summary
In summary, **chânaṭ** `{{H2590}}` is a unique word that bridges the concepts of death and life. Through its application to embalming, it conveys a sense of honor, preservation, and the careful handling of the dead, as seen in the final accounts of Israel and Joseph in Egypt. Simultaneously, its use to describe a fig tree that **putteth forth** fruit illustrates the natural process of ripening and maturation. This dual function highlights transitions—one marking the end of physical life and the other signaling the peak of natural fruitfulness.
TRV