The Hebrew word ṭârîy, represented by H2961, carries a meaning derived from being moist. Based on this root, it is properly understood as dripping, and is therefore used to mean fresh, new, or putrefying. This term is rare, appearing only 2 times in 2 unique verses in the Bible. Its meanings span from the idea of something recently made to something in a state of decay.
In the book of Judges, ṭârîy is used to describe an object of unconventional strength. Samson finds a "new" jawbone of an ass and uses it to slay a thousand men Judges 15:15. Here, the word conveys freshness, indicating the jawbone was not old and brittle but recent and therefore strong. In contrast, Isaiah uses the same word to depict a state of utter corruption. He describes the spiritual condition of Judah as a body covered from head to foot with wounds, bruises, and "putrifying" sores that have not been treated Isaiah 1:6. In this context, ṭârîy signifies an open, festering wound.
Several related words clarify the contexts in which H2961 is found:
- H3895 lᵉchîy (jaw (bone)): This is the object described as "new" in Samson's story. The definition is "the cheek (from its fleshiness); hence, the jaw-bone" Judges 15:15.
- H5221 nâkâh (smite): This primitive root describes the action Samson took with the jawbone. It means "to strike," and is translated as "slew" in the account Judges 15:15.
- H6482 petsaʻ (wound): This term for a wound appears alongside "putrifying" sores in Isaiah's prophecy, emphasizing the nation's dire state Isaiah 1:6.
- H2250 chabbûwrâh (bruise): Also appearing with ṭârîy in Isaiah 1:6, this word denotes a "weal (or black-and-blue mark itself)," painting a vivid picture of injury and decay.
The dual meaning of H2961 carries significant weight in its two appearances:
- Unconventional Instrument: In Judges 15:15, the "new" jawbone is not a traditional weapon. Its freshness makes it usable and strong. This illustrates how God can empower his servants with ordinary items that are "found" H4672 at the opportune moment.
- Spiritual Decay: In Isaiah 1:6, the "putrifying" sore is a powerful metaphor for sin's corrupting influence. The imagery points to a condition that is not healing on its own, signifying a deep spiritual sickness and separation from God.
- The Duality of "Moisture": The root concept of being "moist" or "dripping" unifies both meanings. A fresh jawbone is moist because it is recent. A putrefying sore is also moist, but with the fluids of infection. This highlights how a single physical state can represent either fresh potential or active corruption.
In summary, H2961 ṭârîy is a highly specific term whose meaning is dictated entirely by its context. While appearing only twice, it powerfully illustrates a spectrum from freshness and newness to active decay and putrefaction. It shows how a simple, "new" object can become an instrument of deliverance Judges 15:15, and also serves as a graphic symbol for the corrupting nature of unaddressed sin Isaiah 1:6.
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