from an unused root probably meaning to weave; a basket (of interlaced osiers); basket.
Transliteration:ṭeneʼ
Pronunciation:teh'-neh
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word ṭeneʼ (`{{H2935}}`) refers to a "basket," specifically one constructed through a process of "interlacing osiers" or similar flexible materials. Its root, though unused in extant Hebrew, points to the act of weaving or plaiting, highlighting the craftsmanship involved in its creation. Unlike a simple container, the ṭeneʼ implies a degree of deliberate construction, forming a sturdy yet flexible vessel. Its semantic range is narrow, exclusively denoting this particular type of woven receptacle, intended for carrying or holding.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word ṭeneʼ (`{{H2935}}`) appears only twice in the Hebrew Bible, both instances occurring within the same passage in Deuteronomy 26, specifically concerning the ritual of the firstfruits offering.
1. **[[Deuteronomy 26:2]]**: "that you shall take some of the first of all the fruit of the ground, which you bring from your land that the LORD your God is giving you, and put it in a basket (טֶנֶא) and go to the place that the LORD your God will choose, to make his name dwell there."
* Here, the ṭeneʼ is designated as the prescribed vessel for transporting the firstfruits (bikkûrîm - `{{H1061}}`) from the harvest to the central sanctuary. It is not merely any container but the specific, divinely appointed receptacle for this sacred offering. The act of placing the firstfruits into the ṭeneʼ marks the initiation of a solemn ritual, transforming common produce into a holy offering.
2. **[[Deuteronomy 26:4]]**: "Then the priest shall take the basket (טֶנֶא) from your hand and set it down before the altar of the LORD your God."
* This verse continues the ritual, depicting the transfer of the ṭeneʼ from the worshiper to the priest, who then places it before the altar. The basket thus serves as a tangible link between the worshiper's labor, the bounty of the land, and the divine presence at the altar. Its role is central to the ceremonial presentation, facilitating the worshiper's declaration of gratitude and remembrance of God's covenant faithfulness. The specific mention of ṭeneʼ underscores its unique and indispensable function within this highly significant act of worship.
### Related Words & Concepts
While ṭeneʼ (`{{H2935}}`) is specific, it relates to broader categories of containers and theological concepts:
* **Containers:** Other Hebrew words denote types of baskets or vessels, such as sāl (`{{H5488}}`), which also means "basket" and is used, for example, in the account of Pharaoh's chief baker (e.g., [[Genesis 40:16-17]]). Unlike ṭeneʼ, sāl does not carry the same explicit ceremonial weight in its biblical occurrences. keli (`{{H3613}}`) is a much broader term for any "vessel," "implement," or "article." The specificity of ṭeneʼ in Deuteronomy 26 suggests a particular form or significance for its ritual use.
* **Firstfruits:** The primary concept inextricably linked with ṭeneʼ is bikkûrîm (`{{H1061}}`), the first and best produce of the harvest, offered to God in gratitude.
* **Offerings/Sacrifice:** The ṭeneʼ is a vessel for an qorbān (`{{H7133}}`), an offering brought near to God.
* **Thanksgiving:** The ritual involving the ṭeneʼ is fundamentally an act of thanksgiving for God's provision and fulfillment of His covenant promises.
* **Covenant:** The entire ceremony of firstfruits, with the ṭeneʼ at its center, is a re-affirmation of the covenant relationship between God and Israel, recalling their deliverance from Egypt and entrance into the Promised Land.
### Theological Significance
The ṭeneʼ (`{{H2935}}`), though a simple object, assumes profound theological significance through its exclusive use in the firstfruits offering.
1. **Sacred Utility and Consecration:** The basket is not merely a utilitarian carrying device; it is a consecrated vessel for a holy purpose. Its designation for the firstfruits ritual elevates it from a common item to an instrument of worship, participating in the sanctification of the offering.
2. **Symbol of Gratitude and Dependence:** The ṭeneʼ, filled with the firstfruits, embodies the worshiper's profound gratitude to Yahweh for His unfailing provision and the bounty of the land. It represents the recognition that all blessings flow from God, fostering a spirit of dependence rather than self-sufficiency.
3. **Tangible Link in Covenant Remembrance:** The act of placing the firstfruits in the ṭeneʼ and presenting it at the altar serves as a tangible reminder of God's faithfulness in delivering Israel from slavery and bringing them into the promised land. The basket becomes a physical connection between the worshiper's present prosperity and God's historical acts of redemption, reinforcing the covenant relationship.
4. **Expression of Obedience and Humility:** The specific command to use the ṭeneʼ for the firstfruits ritual underscores the importance of obedience to divine instruction. Bringing the offering in the prescribed manner, using the designated vessel, is an act of humble submission to God's sovereignty over all creation and all aspects of life.
### Summary
The Hebrew word ṭeneʼ (`{{H2935}}`) refers to a woven "basket," likely constructed from interlaced materials. Its limited but highly significant biblical appearances are exclusively within the context of the firstfruits offering in Deuteronomy 26. In this sacred ritual, the ṭeneʼ functions as the designated vessel for presenting the first and best produce of the land to God. Its role is not merely utilitarian but deeply symbolic, embodying the worshiper's gratitude for divine provision, serving as a tangible link in the remembrance of God's covenant faithfulness, and signifying an act of humble obedience. Thus, the ṭeneʼ, a simple basket, becomes a powerful emblem of Israel's relationship with Yahweh, rooted in thanksgiving and covenant.
TRV