probably from לוּט; a gum (from its sticky nature), probably ladanum; myrrh.
Transliteration:lôṭ
Pronunciation:lote
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma לֹט (lôṭ, `{{H3910}}`) designates a specific type of gum or resin. Its proposed etymological root, לוּט (lûṭ), suggests a connection to concepts of covering, wrapping, or being sticky and adhesive. Based on botanical and linguistic analysis, the most probable identification for this substance is ladanum, a fragrant, dark, sticky resin obtained from the Cistus shrub (rockrose), particularly *Cistus creticus* or *Cistus ladanifer*. While some older translations, notably the King James Version, render it as "myrrh," this is likely a broader interpretation of a valuable aromatic resin rather than a precise botanical identification of *Commiphora myrrha*, for which the Hebrew uses a different term (mor, `{{H4753}}`). The defining characteristic of lôṭ, as implied by its root, is its gummy, sticky nature, making it suitable for various uses, likely perfumery, incense, or medicinal applications.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word לֹט (lôṭ) appears only twice in the Hebrew Bible, both instances occurring within the book of Genesis, specifically within the narrative of Joseph:
* **[[Genesis 37:25]]**: "Then they sat down to eat the bread. And they lifted their eyes and looked, and there was a caravan of Ishmaelites, coming from Gilead, with their camels bearing spices, balm, and myrrh [לֹט], going to carry them down to Egypt."
* Contextually, this verse describes the moment Joseph's brothers are about to sell him into slavery. The passing Ishmaelite caravan is depicted as transporting valuable trade goods. The inclusion of lôṭ alongside "spices" (nēḵōʾṯ, `{{H5219}}`) and "balm" (ṣŏrî, `{{H6875}}`) highlights its status as a valuable aromatic commodity in the ancient Near Eastern trade routes. The origin from Gilead further suggests a region known for its aromatic resins.
* **[[Genesis 43:11]]**: "Then their father Israel said to them, 'If it must be so, then do this: Take some of the best fruits of the land in your vessels and carry down a present for the man—a little balm and a little honey, spices and myrrh [לֹט], pistachio nuts and almonds.'"
* In this instance, Jacob (Israel) instructs his sons to take a selection of the land's finest produce as a gift for the powerful Egyptian ruler (unbeknownst to them, Joseph). Here, lôṭ is once again grouped with other premium agricultural products and aromatics. Its inclusion in a "present" (minḥāh, `{{H4503}}`) signifies its high value and suitability as a tribute or diplomatic offering to a dignitary, underscoring its economic and social importance.
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of לֹט (lôṭ, `{{H3910}}`) is enriched by examining its relationship to other terms and broader concepts:
* **Root לוּט (lûṭ)**: The proposed root for lôṭ, meaning "to wrap," "to cover," or "to envelop," directly relates to the sticky, adhesive quality of the resin. This etymological link provides insight into the physical properties that defined the substance.
* **Other Aromatic Resins and Spices**:
* `{{H6875}}` (ṣŏrî): "Balm" or "balsam," frequently mentioned alongside lôṭ, also a valuable resin, often associated with Gilead and known for its medicinal and aromatic properties ([[Genesis 37:25]]; [[Genesis 43:11]]).
* `{{H5219}}` (nēḵōʾṯ): "Spices" or "storax gum," another aromatic gum listed with lôṭ, further emphasizing its place among precious trade goods ([[Genesis 37:25]]; [[Genesis 43:11]]).
* `{{H4753}}` (mor): The more common Hebrew word for "myrrh," derived from a root meaning "to be bitter." This is a distinct substance from lôṭ, referring specifically to the resin of *Commiphora myrrha*. The distinction is important for precise botanical identification, even if lôṭ was sometimes translated as "myrrh" in a general sense.
* **Trade and Commerce**: The contexts in Genesis clearly establish lôṭ as an item of commerce and a valuable commodity in ancient Near Eastern trade networks. Its presence in a merchant caravan and as a diplomatic gift highlights the economic significance of aromatic resins in the patriarchal period.
* **Gifts and Tribute**: The use of lôṭ as part of a "present" in [[Genesis 43:11]] connects it to the broader concept of gift-giving in ancient diplomacy and social interaction, where valuable goods served to establish favor, express respect, or facilitate reconciliation.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of לֹט (lôṭ, `{{H3910}}`) is primarily indirect, deriving from its role within the broader biblical narrative rather than possessing inherent symbolic meaning.
* **Divine Provision**: In [[Genesis 43:11]], Jacob's instruction to take "some of the best fruits of the land" as a gift, including lôṭ, subtly underscores God's ongoing provision for His people, even amidst famine. The land, despite the hardships, still yielded valuable resources, reflecting a divine blessing. This act of gathering the best produce can be seen as an acknowledgment of the Lord's sustenance.
* **Human Relationships and Reconciliation**: The inclusion of lôṭ in the gift to the Egyptian ruler serves the pragmatic purpose of appeasement and seeking favor. Within the Joseph narrative, this act contributes to the unfolding of God's sovereign plan, which ultimately leads to the reconciliation of Joseph with his brothers and the preservation of Jacob's family. The material value of lôṭ thus plays a small but contributing role in a story rich with themes of forgiveness, divine providence, and the restoration of familial bonds.
* **Economic and Cultural Context**: The presence of lôṭ as a trade good and a valuable gift provides insight into the material culture and economic realities of the patriarchal era. It reflects the value placed on aromatics, perhaps for their use in perfumery, medicine, or religious rituals, contributing to a fuller understanding of the world in which the early biblical narratives are set. While not a central theological concept, it enriches the historical and cultural backdrop of God's interaction with humanity.
### Summary
The Hebrew word לֹט (lôṭ, `{{H3910}}`) refers to a sticky gum or resin, most accurately identified as ladanum, though sometimes broadly translated as myrrh. Its etymological root suggests a connection to its adhesive nature. Appearing exclusively in Genesis, lôṭ is consistently portrayed as a valuable commodity. In [[Genesis 37:25]], it is part of a merchant caravan's cargo, signifying its importance in ancient trade. In [[Genesis 43:11]], it is included among the "best fruits of the land" sent as a diplomatic gift, underscoring its high status. While lôṭ itself lacks direct theological symbolism, its contextual usage illuminates themes of divine provision, the complexities of human relationships and reconciliation, and the economic realities of the patriarchal period, serving as a tangible element within the unfolding narrative of God's faithfulness and human interaction.
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