### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **keçeph**, represented by `{{H3701}}`, is a term for **silver**. It appears **403 times** across **343 unique verses**. Derived from a root signifying its pale color, `{{H3701}}` is used both for the precious metal itself and, by implication, for **money** or a **price**. This dual meaning highlights its central role in commerce, wealth, and worship throughout the scriptures.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H3701}}` appears in several key contexts. It is a primary measure of personal and national wealth, as seen in the description of Abram being "very rich in cattle, in **silver**, and in gold" [[Genesis 13:2]]. As a medium of exchange, it is used for everything from selling a person into slavery for twenty pieces of **silver** [[Genesis 37:28]] to paying for a field [[Jeremiah 32:10]]. The material is also used to craft idols, with scripture frequently warning against making gods of **silver** [[Exodus 20:23]] and describing idols as mere **silver** and gold, the work of human hands [[Psalms 115:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the contexts in which **keçeph** is found:
* `{{H2091}}` **zâhâb** (gold): This word for the shimmering metal is almost always paired with **silver** to denote great wealth or valuable materials for sacred or profane use ([[Genesis 13:2]], [[Haggai 2:8]]).
* `{{H8255}}` **sheqel** (shekel): As a commercial standard weight, the **shekel** was used to measure quantities of **silver** for payments and offerings, such as the two hundred **shekels** of **silver** Achan took from Jericho [[Joshua 7:21]].
* `{{H6884}}` **tsâraph** (to refine): This word, meaning to fuse or refine metal, is used to describe the process of purifying **silver**. It is often used figuratively for God's testing of His people [[Zechariah 13:9]].
* `{{H5509}}` **çîyg** (dross): The direct counterpart to purification, **dross** is the refuse removed from **silver**. Scripture uses this to describe the wicked who are purged away [[Proverbs 25:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3701}}` is significant, often serving as a symbol for both worldly value and spiritual realities.
* **The Limits of Earthly Riches:** Scripture repeatedly warns that wealth is fleeting and powerless to save. On the day of the LORD's wrath, "neither their **silver** nor their gold shall be able to deliver them" ([[Zephaniah 1:18]], [[Ezekiel 7:19]]). The love of **silver** is unsatisfying and vanity [[Ecclesiastes 5:10]].
* **A Metaphor for Divine Purification:** The process of refining **silver** is a powerful metaphor for God's work in the lives of His people. The LORD sits as a refiner and purifier of **silver** to purge His people [[Malachi 3:3]], and He tries them as **silver** is tried, often in a furnace of affliction ([[Psalms 66:10]], [[Isaiah 48:10]]).
* **The Source of Idolatry and Corruption:** **Silver** is frequently associated with the creation of idols [[Hosea 13:2]] and the corruption of justice. Leaders are condemned for judging for reward and divining for **money** [[Micah 3:11]], and Achan's sin began when he coveted **silver** and gold [[Joshua 7:21]].
* **God's Ultimate Ownership:** Despite its use by humanity, God asserts His absolute sovereignty over all wealth. He declares, "The **silver** is mine, and the gold is mine" [[Haggai 2:8]], reminding readers that all resources ultimately belong to Him.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3701}}` is far more than a simple term for a metal or currency. It is a cornerstone of biblical economics and a potent theological symbol. As **keçeph**, it represents both the tangible wealth that builds nations and temples, and the corrupting influence of greed and idolatry. Figuratively, it illustrates the immense value of God's pure words and the purifying trials His people endure, ultimately pointing to the truth that lasting value resides not in earthly treasures, but in a refined relationship with God.
TRV