### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **yâthêd**, represented by `{{H3489}}`, serves as a versatile term for a **peg, nail, paddle, pin, or stake**. It appears 24 times across 19 unique verses in the Bible. Its base definition, stemming from an unused root meaning to pin through or fast, highlights its function in securing, fastening, or even piercing objects.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H3489}}` is used in several key contexts. Literally, it describes the essential **pins** used to secure the tabernacle and its court, which were made of brass ([[Exodus 27:19]], [[Exodus 38:20]]). It is also depicted as a functional tool, such as the **paddle** specified for digging [[Deuteronomy 23:13]] or the tent **nail** Jael used to smite Sisera [[Judges 4:21]]. Figuratively, the word shifts to represent stability and a secure position. God promises to fasten a leader like a **nail** in a sure place [[Isaiah 22:23]], and provides His people with a **nail** in His holy place as a symbol of a secure remnant [[Ezra 9:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concepts of fastening, stability, and structure:
* `{{H8628}}` **tâqaʻ** (to clatter...drive (a nail or tent-pin...)): This verb is frequently used to describe the action of driving a **pin** or **nail** into place, emphasizing the act of fastening it securely ([[Judges 16:14]], [[Isaiah 22:23]]).
* `{{H2388}}` **châzaq** (to fasten upon...strengthen...fortify): This word connects the **stake** to the concept of fortification and resilience, as seen in the command to **strengthen** the stakes of an expanding tent [[Isaiah 54:2]].
* `{{H5265}}` **nâçaʻ** (to pull up, especially the tent-pins...start on a journey): This root describes the removal of pins, providing a direct contrast to the permanence and stability offered by the **stake** when it is meant to remain fixed [[Isaiah 33:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3489}}` is significant, representing security that comes from God.
* **Divine Security and Establishment:** The term is used to symbolize a secure and stable position granted by God. A **nail** `{{H3489}}` in His holy place represents a foothold of grace and reviving for His people, a place of permanence after a period of bondage [[Ezra 9:8]].
* **Appointed Authority:** A person can be metaphorically fastened like a **nail** `{{H3489}}` by God, signifying a divinely appointed position of honor and authority [[Isaiah 22:23]]. However, the same passage warns that this divinely-placed **nail** can also be removed by the LORD, demonstrating that all security ultimately depends on Him [[Isaiah 22:25]].
* **A Foundational Figure:** In prophecy, the **nail** `{{H3489}}` is mentioned alongside the cornerstone and the battle bow as originating from Judah, signifying a foundational, load-bearing leader essential for the stability and victory of God's people [[Zechariah 10:4]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3489}}` demonstrates a range of meaning from a literal **pin** or **stake** to a powerful metaphor for security and divinely appointed leadership. Its use in constructing the tabernacle establishes its role in creating a stable dwelling, while its figurative applications in prophecy elevate it to a symbol of God's promise of a secure remnant [[Ezra 9:8]] and a foundational leader [[Zechariah 10:4]]. The word illustrates how a common object can convey profound theological truths about stability, authority, and God's sovereign placement.
TRV