### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **kâthîyth**, represented by `{{H3795}}`, describes something that is **beaten** to achieve a state of purity. It appears **5 times** in **5 unique verses**. The term is used exclusively to qualify oil, signifying a product that has been carefully prepared and refined, often translated as **beaten** or **pure**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The use of `{{H3795}}` is specific and significant. It is commanded `{{H6680}}` for the continual `{{H8548}}` light `{{H3974}}` of the tabernacle lamp `{{H5216}}`, where the Israelites were to bring `{{H3947}}` "pure `{{H2134}}` oil `{{H8081}}` olive `{{H2132}}` **beaten**" ([[Exodus 27:20]]; [[Leviticus 24:2]]). It is also a key ingredient in offerings, where fine flour `{{H5560}}` is mingled `{{H1101}}` with **beaten** oil `{{H8081}}` ([[Exodus 29:40]]; [[Numbers 28:5]]). Beyond ritual, it represented a valuable commodity, as Solomon `{{H8010}}` gave `{{H5414}}` Hiram measures of **pure** `{{H3795}}` oil as food `{{H4361}}` for his household [[1 Kings 5:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the meaning and application of `{{H3795}}`:
* `{{H8081}}` **shemen** (oil): This is the substance that `{{H3795}}` describes. **Shemen** refers to oil, often from the olive, and is associated with anointing, richness, and joy ([[Isaiah 61:3]]; [[Psalms 23:5]]).
* `{{H2132}}` **zayith** (olive): This is the source of the **beaten** oil. The **olive** tree and its fruit are symbols of blessing and life in scripture ([[Psalms 52:8]]; [[Psalms 128:3]]).
* `{{H2134}}` **zak** (pure): This word is used in parallel with `{{H3795}}` to describe the oil for the lamp, meaning "clear" or "clean" [[Exodus 27:20]]. It highlights the required quality for something set apart for God.
* `{{H1101}}` **bâlal** (mingle): This root describes how the **beaten** oil was combined with flour `{{H5560}}` for offerings [[Exodus 29:40]]. It means to mix or temper, emphasizing its role as part of a consecrated preparation.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3795}}` is connected to its function in worship and covenant.
* **Excellence in Worship:** The command for **beaten** oil for the perpetual `{{H8548}}` lamp `{{H5216}}` signifies that what is brought before God must be of the highest quality, carefully prepared and pure `{{H2134}}` [[Leviticus 24:2]].
* **Sacred Offerings:** Its inclusion in meat offerings demonstrates that even the components of a sacrifice were to be specially prepared, reflecting a process of refinement suitable for holy use [[Numbers 28:5]].
* **Symbol of Value:** The exchange between Solomon `{{H8010}}` and Hiram shows that **pure** `{{H3795}}` oil was a commodity of great worth, suitable for fulfilling royal agreements and providing sustenance [[1 Kings 5:11]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3795}}` **kâthîyth** is a highly specific term, denoting oil that is **beaten** and thus made **pure**. It is never used in a mundane context; instead, it is reserved for the sacred lamp of the tabernacle, for consecrated offerings, and as a precious resource of the highest value. The word illustrates the principle of bringing a refined, carefully prepared offering to God, highlighting a standard of excellence in both worship and covenantal relationships.
TRV