### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ṭeneʼ**, represented by `{{H2935}}`, refers to a **basket**, likely one woven from interlaced materials. Although it appears only **4 times** in 4 verses, its usage is significant within the context of Israel's worship and covenant life. The term describes a specific vessel used for sacred offerings and symbolizes the broader concept of divine provision.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
All occurrences of `{{H2935}}` are found in the book of Deuteronomy, where it plays a key role in the ceremony of the firstfruits. An Israelite was commanded to put the first of all the fruit of the earth into a **basket** and bring it to the place the Lord chooses [[Deuteronomy 26:2]]. The priest would then take the **basket** from the worshipper's hand and set it before the altar of the Lord [[Deuteronomy 26:4]]. The word is also used to represent the outcome of obedience or disobedience; the **basket** is either blessed as a sign of God's favor or cursed as a sign of judgment ([[Deuteronomy 28:5]], [[Deuteronomy 28:17]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the function and context of the **basket**:
* `{{H6529}}` **pᵉrîy** (fruit): This is the substance placed within the **basket** as an offering. Beyond literal produce, the term can be used figuratively for a reward or the consequences of one's actions, such as the **fruit** of the tongue [[Proverbs 18:21]].
* `{{H4863}}` **mishʼereth** (kneading trough, store): This word is paired directly with **ṭeneʼ** in the context of blessings and curses, representing domestic provision. The Israelites carried their **kneadingtroughs** on their shoulders when leaving Egypt [[Exodus 12:34]].
* `{{H4196}}` **mizbêach** (altar): This is the sacred destination where the **basket** of firstfruits is presented. The **altar** is central to worship, serving as the place for sacrifice and atonement [[Leviticus 17:11]].
* `{{H3947}}` **lâqach** (to take): This action is central to the basket's role, as the worshipper must **take** the fruit and the priest must **take** the basket. This word is used broadly for actions of receiving, seizing, or carrying away [[Job 1:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological importance of `{{H2935}}` is centered on the act of worship and reliance on God.
* **Vessel of Firstfruits:** The **basket** is the designated container for presenting the first and best of the harvest to God, an act of acknowledging Him as the ultimate source of all provision [[Deuteronomy 26:2]].
* **Symbol of Divine Provision:** The state of one's **basket** serves as a direct indicator of God's blessing or curse. A blessed **basket** signifies abundance from God, while a cursed one represents the withdrawal of that provision ([[Deuteronomy 28:5]], [[Deuteronomy 28:17]]).
* **Object of Sacred Ritual:** The journey of the **basket** from the worshipper's hand to the priest, and its placement before the altar, is a key part of a holy ceremony that formalizes the presentation of an offering to the Lord [[Deuteronomy 26:4]].
### Summary
In summary, **ṭeneʼ** `{{H2935}}` is more than just a simple container. It is a specific, sacred vessel tied directly to the laws of worship in the Old Testament. Its limited but poignant use in Deuteronomy establishes it as a powerful symbol of the relationship between God and his people, representing the offering of firstfruits, the reality of divine provision, and the tangible consequences of covenant faithfulness.
TRV