from כָּשֵׁר; compare פֶּלֶךְ; literally a director, i.e. the spindle or shank of adistaff, by which it is twirled; spindle.
Transliteration:kîyshôwr
Pronunciation:kee-shore'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H3601}}` (כִּישׁוֹר, *kîyshôwr*) refers specifically to the "spindle," an essential tool in the ancient process of spinning thread. Derived from the root כָּשֵׁר (*kāshēr*), which conveys ideas of being "straight," "proper," or "fit," the *kîyshôwr* inherently suggests an instrument designed for order and precision. Its function is to twist fibers into yarn, thereby creating a straight, uniform thread. This etymological connection underscores the spindle's role as a "director" or "twirler" that brings raw material into a usable, ordered form. While often associated with `{{H6418}}` (פֶּלֶךְ, *pelek*), which can denote either the "distaff" (the rod holding the unspun fibers) or the "spindle" itself, `{{H3601}}` more precisely emphasizes the rotating element that draws out and twists the thread. Thus, *kîyshôwr* embodies the active, formative aspect of the spinning process.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{H3601}}` appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in the well-known passage describing the "virtuous woman" of [[Proverbs 31:19]]: "She lays her hands on the distaff, and her hands hold the spindle." This singular occurrence is profoundly significant, as it places the *kîyshôwr* within the context of exemplary industry and domestic wisdom. The image presented is one of a woman actively engaged in the laborious, yet vital, process of textile production. In ancient Israel, spinning and weaving were fundamental household industries, contributing directly to the family's clothing and economic well-being. The act of "laying hands" upon the distaff and "holding" the spindle signifies diligent, hands-on labor. This is not merely a passive activity but an active, purposeful engagement that underscores the woman's contribution to the household's prosperity and her own self-sufficiency. The verse portrays a woman not only capable but also committed to providing for her family through her skilled labor, a hallmark of the wisdom literature's ideal of righteousness and diligence.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word to `{{H3601}}` is `{{H6418}}` (פֶּלֶךְ, *pelek*), which also refers to an implement used in spinning, often translated as "distaff" or "spindle." In [[Proverbs 31:19]], the two terms appear in parallel, with *pelek* typically understood as the distaff (holding the raw wool or flax) and *kîyshôwr* as the spindle (the rotating rod that twists the fibers into thread). Together, they represent the complete hand-spinning apparatus. Beyond these specific tools, `{{H3601}}` is conceptually linked to:
* **Textile Production:** Broader concepts of spinning, weaving, and the creation of garments, which were essential skills for household economy and provision in ancient societies.
* **Labor and Industry:** The theme of diligent work, a virtue highly esteemed in wisdom literature (e.g., [[Proverbs 6:6-11]], [[Proverbs 10:4]]).
* **Feminine Virtue:** The role of women in the household economy and their contribution to family welfare, as exemplified by the "virtuous woman" of Proverbs 31.
* **Order and Skill:** The ability to transform raw materials into useful, ordered products reflects skill, foresight, and a disciplined approach to life.
### Theological Significance
The solitary mention of `{{H3601}}` in [[Proverbs 31:19]] elevates the mundane act of spinning to a symbol of profound theological and ethical significance.
1. **Diligence and Stewardship:** The spindle represents productive labor and the responsible stewardship of time and resources. The virtuous woman's engagement with the *kîyshôwr* is not merely a domestic chore but an embodiment of wisdom in action, demonstrating a commitment to industry and foresight in providing for her household. This aligns with biblical principles that value hard work and condemn idleness (e.g., [[2 Thessalonians 3:10]]).
2. **Divine Order in Human Endeavor:** The etymological root of *kîyshôwr* (related to "straight" or "proper") subtly connects human labor to divine order. Just as the spindle brings order to disparate fibers, so too does a life lived in accordance with God's wisdom bring order and flourishing.
3. **The Value of Practical Skills:** The passage highlights the spiritual value embedded in practical, everyday skills. God's design for human flourishing includes the diligent application of human ingenuity and effort to transform the raw materials of creation into useful goods, contributing to the well-being of the community.
4. **Empowerment and Contribution:** The image of the woman with the spindle underscores the significant and often overlooked economic and social contributions of women in ancient Israel. Her labor is not trivial but foundational to the household's stability and reputation, reflecting a divine appreciation for all forms of righteous and productive work.
### Summary
The Hebrew word `{{H3601}}` (כִּישׁוֹר, *kîyshôwr*), meaning "spindle," is a precise term for the rotating tool used in ancient hand-spinning. Its singular appearance in [[Proverbs 31:19]] is highly evocative, depicting the "virtuous woman" actively engaged in diligent labor. Rooted in a concept of "straightness" or "properness," the *kîyshôwr* symbolizes order, precision, and the transformation of raw material into a usable product. Theologically, it represents the virtues of diligence, responsible stewardship, and the essential contribution of practical skills to a well-ordered life and household. It underscores the biblical value of productive labor and the significant role of every individual's effort in contributing to the flourishing of the community, all within the framework of divine wisdom.
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