### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **kîyç**, represented by `{{H3599}}`, primarily refers to a **bag** for money or weights, or a **purse**. It is also identified as a form for `{{H3563}}` **kôwç**, meaning a **cup**. Appearing **6 times** in **6 unique verses**, this term is consistently linked to concepts of wealth, commerce, and moral standards in financial dealings.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Biblical usage of `{{H3599}}` often carries a strong moral and ethical dimension. In the law, it is used to forbid dishonest practices, commanding, "Thou shalt not have in thy **bag** divers weights, a great and a small" [[Deuteronomy 25:13]]. This theme of justice is affirmed in Proverbs, where "all the weights of the **bag** are his work" [[Proverbs 16:11]], connecting fair commerce directly to God's domain. The term can also signify a shared fund, as when sinners entice others to "cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one **purse**" [[Proverbs 1:14]]. In a unique instance, it appears alongside `{{H3563}}` in reference to a **cup** of wine [[Proverbs 23:31]], highlighting its dual meaning.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context and meaning of **kîyç**:
* `{{H68}}` **'eben** (stone, weight): Frequently used alongside `{{H3599}}`, this word denotes the actual **weights** carried in the bag for commerce, as seen in the command against carrying "divers **weights**" [[Deuteronomy 25:13]].
* `{{H3976}}` **môʼzên** (balances): This term for scales or **balances** often appears with `{{H3599}}`, establishing the setting of trade and measurement. God's standard is a just **balance**, and the weights in the bag are His work [[Proverbs 16:11]].
* `{{H4820}}` **mirmâh** (deceit): This word directly qualifies the misuse of the bag in [[Micah 6:11]], which condemns a "**bag** of **deceitful** weights," linking the object to the concept of fraud.
* `{{H3563}}` **kôwç** (cup): The definition of `{{H3599}}` notes it is a form for **kôwç**. This connection is illustrated in [[Proverbs 23:31]], where both terms are used to describe the **cup** containing wine.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3599}}` is centered on the principles of justice and stewardship.
* **Divine Standard for Commerce:** The concept of the "bag" is not merely practical but is subject to divine law. God is presented as the ultimate arbiter of fair trade, with a just weight and balance belonging to Him [[Proverbs 16:11]]. Using a bag with deceitful weights is an affront to His standard of righteousness [[Micah 6:11]].
* **Misuse of Wealth:** The bag as a container for wealth highlights the moral responsibility of its owner. In Isaiah, gold is lavished from the **bag** to create an idol, representing a profound misapplication of resources away from God [[Isaiah 46:6]]. Similarly, the shared **purse** in [[Proverbs 1:14]] becomes a tool for collective sin.
* **Prohibition of Fraud:** The explicit prohibition against carrying two different weights in one's **bag** [[Deuteronomy 25:13]] establishes a clear ethical boundary. It underscores the biblical emphasis on integrity in all dealings, especially those affecting the community's economic well-being.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3599}}` **kîyç** is a multifaceted term that moves from a simple container—a **bag**, **purse**, or **cup**—to a powerful symbol of economic ethics. It is a focal point for biblical teachings on justice, integrity in trade, and the righteous use of material wealth. By connecting a common object to divine standards, scripture uses **kîyç** to illustrate that God's authority and judgment extend into the everyday transactions of human life.
TRV