### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chermêsh**, represented by `{{H2770}}`, is defined as a **sickle**. Its definition notes it is a tool for cutting. This word appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, exclusively in the book of Deuteronomy, where it functions as a key agricultural implement.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H2770}}` is used in specific legal and ceremonial contexts. Its first appearance marks the beginning of a religious observance; the counting of seven weeks is to begin "from such time as thou beginnest to put the **sickle** to the corn" [[Deuteronomy 16:9]]. It is also used to establish a law regarding a neighbor's property. While an individual may enter a neighbor's field and pluck ears of corn by hand, the law forbids them from moving a **sickle** to their neighbor's standing corn [[Deuteronomy 23:25]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context in which the **sickle** is used:
* `{{H7054}}` **qâmâh** (standing corn): This word describes what the sickle acts upon. Defined as `something that rises, i.e. a stalk of grain`, it represents the mature harvest ready for cutting ([[Deuteronomy 16:9]], [[Deuteronomy 23:25]]).
* `{{H6998}}` **qâṭaph** (to pluck): This action is explicitly contrasted with using a sickle. One is permitted to **pluck** ears of corn by hand in a neighbor's field, but not to use a harvesting tool like a sickle [[Deuteronomy 23:25]]. This distinguishes between taking a small amount for immediate need and systematic reaping.
### Theological Significance
The legal and ceremonial weight of `{{H2770}}` is significant despite its rare usage.
* **Marker of Sacred Time:** The act of putting the **sickle** to the corn is not merely an agricultural chore; it is the official trigger for beginning the seven-week count for a holy festival, linking the harvest directly to the religious calendar [[Deuteronomy 16:9]].
* **Symbol of Lawful Harvest:** The tool delineates the boundary between permissible gleaning and unlawful reaping. Using one's hand is allowed, but using a **sickle** in another's field is forbidden, making the tool a symbol of a full-scale, authorized harvest [[Deuteronomy 23:25]].
* **Instrument of Cutting:** Derived from a root meaning "to cut," the **sickle** is the essential instrument for felling the standing corn `{{H7054}}`, representing a decisive action that turns a growing crop into a gathered resource.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2770}}` is more than just a simple agricultural tool. While it appears only twice, **chermêsh** plays a crucial role in Old Testament law. It serves as a starting point for a religious festival and as a legal distinction in matters of property and provision for the poor. The word illustrates how a common object can be imbued with both ceremonial and legal significance.
TRV