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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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