### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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.
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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]].
TRV