The Hebrew word chishshur, represented by H2840, translates as spoke. Derived from an unused root meaning "to bind together," its definition specifies it as the part of a wheel that holds the components together. This highly specific term appears only 1 time in a single verse in the entire Bible, highlighting its unique context.
The sole appearance of H2840 is in the detailed description of the ten bronze stands made for Solomon's temple. The text specifies that "the work of the wheels was like the work of a chariot wheel" 1 Kings 7:33. In this verse, the spokes H2840 are listed as a distinct component alongside the axletrees, naves, and felloes. The passage concludes by noting that all these parts were "molten" H3332, indicating they were cast as a single, unified metal creation.
Several related words in the context of 1 Kings 7:33 help define the environment of H2840:
- H212 ʼôwphân (wheel): This is the complete assembly to which the spoke belongs. The term is used to describe the wheels of the temple stands 1 Kings 7:33 but also appears in the context of God's divine chariot in Ezekiel's vision Ezekiel 1:16.
- H2839 chishshuq (felloe): This term describes the outer rim of the wheel that is connected by the spokes. Like H2840, its only biblical occurrence is in the same passage, where it is listed as another of the molten parts of the wheel 1 Kings 7:33.
- H1354 gab (nave): Defined as a nave or hub, this is the central part of the wheel from which the spokes radiate. The word is also used elsewhere to mean "rings" in Ezekiel's vision of the wheels Ezekiel 1:18 and "eminent place" Ezekiel 16:24.
While highly technical, the mention of H2840 carries significance in its context.
- Integrity in Divine Works: The specific naming of the spokes among the other parts of the wheel underscores the immense detail and precision involved in constructing items for the temple. It reflects a principle that every component contributes to the perfection of the whole work H4639 dedicated to God.
- The Principle of Unity: The root meaning of chishshur, "to bind together," perfectly describes the function of a spoke. It connects the central hub to the outer rim, giving the wheel its structure and strength. This serves as a concrete illustration of unity, where disparate parts are bound into a single, functional object.
- Unified Creation: The fact that the spokes and all other wheel components were "molten" H3332 emphasizes a singular, unified act of creation. This process ensures all parts are of the same material and form a seamless whole, just as they are described in the construction of the chariot-like wheels 1 Kings 7:33.
In summary, H2840 is a precise architectural term for a spoke, used once to detail the sacred craftsmanship of Solomon's temple. Its meaning, "to bind together," and its context within a list of interconnected, molten parts 1 Kings 7:33 emphasize themes of unity, integrity, and the importance of individual components in a larger, divinely purposed work. Though rare, chishshur demonstrates how even the most technical terms in scripture contribute to a deeper appreciation of the biblical narrative.
TRV