### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chôthemeth**, represented by `{{H2858}}`, is a term for a **seal** or **signet**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. As the feminine active participle of a root word meaning to seal, it denotes an object used for personal identification, authentication, and marking ownership.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical appearance of `{{H2858}}` is in the dramatic narrative of Tamar and Judah. When Tamar is **brought forth** `{{H3318}}` to be punished, she **sent** `{{H7971}}` to her **father in law** `{{H2524}}`, declaring that she is **with child** `{{H2030}}` by the **man** `{{H376}}` who owns a specific set of items. She presents these belongings and asks him to **discern** `{{H5234}}` whose they are: the **signet** `{{H2858}}`, the **bracelets** `{{H6616}}`, and the **staff** `{{H4294}}` [[Genesis 38:25]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words from its only context help clarify the function of a **signet** as a personal marker:
* `{{H5234}}` **nâkar** (discern): This root word means "to scrutinize, i.e. look intently at" and, by implication, "to acknowledge, be acquainted with". Tamar's use of this word challenges Judah to recognize and acknowledge his own property.
* `{{H4294}}` **maṭṭeh** (staff): Defined as a rod used for ruling, a sceptre, or a staff for walking, this item, presented alongside the signet, was a symbol of an individual's authority and identity.
* `{{H6616}}` **pâthîyl** (bracelets): Described as "twine" or a "bracelet," this refers to the cord or thread from which the signet may have been hung, further personalizing the object.
* `{{H2524}}` **châm** (father in law): This term establishes the specific relationship "as in affinity" between Tamar and Judah, underscoring the gravity of the situation and the personal nature of the revelation [[Genesis 38:25]].
### Theological Significance
The conceptual weight of `{{H2858}}` is derived entirely from its single, pivotal use in scripture.
* **Irrefutable Identification:** The **signet** serves as unquestionable evidence of personal identity. In a time before modern signatures, a seal was a unique and binding mark.
* **Symbol of Authority:** The signet, along with the staff, represented Judah's personal standing and authority. He had given them as a pledge, making their return a powerful statement [[Genesis 38:18]].
* **Instrument of Revelation:** The appearance of the **signet** forces a moment of truth. It is the key that unlocks the central mystery of the narrative, compelling Judah to acknowledge his actions when Tamar asks him to **discern** the items [[Genesis 38:25]].
### Summary
In summary, while **chôthemeth** `{{H2858}}` is exceptionally rare, its single appearance is highly significant. It functions not merely as an object but as a crucial narrative device, embodying the themes of identification, authority, and the revelation of truth. The context of [[Genesis 38:25]] firmly establishes the **signet** as a definitive personal marker capable of determining one's fate.
TRV