### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nezem**, represented by `{{H5141}}`, refers to a **nose-ring**, **earring**, or **jewel**. It appears **17 times** across **16 unique verses** in the Bible. This term generally describes a personal ornament, often of significant value, used in contexts ranging from simple adornment and gift-giving to religious offerings and powerful metaphors.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5141}}` is used in several significant contexts. It first appears as a valuable gift when Abraham's servant puts an **earring** on Rebekah's face, a gesture that is part of securing her as a wife for Isaac [[Genesis 24:47]]. These ornaments are also central to a major act of apostasy, as the Israelites give their golden **earrings** to Aaron to fashion the golden calf [[Exodus 32:2]]. Conversely, `{{H5141}}` is also listed among the willing offerings of gold brought by the people for the construction of the tabernacle [[Exodus 35:22]]. Metaphorically, a **jewel** of gold in a swine's snout is likened to a beautiful woman without discretion [[Proverbs 11:22]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the use and context of jewelry:
* `{{H2091}}` **zâhâb** (gold): This word is almost always associated with `{{H5141}}`. From the "golden **earring**" given to Rebekah [[Genesis 24:22]] to the gold ones used for the golden calf [[Exodus 32:3]], the value of the **nezem** is often specified by its material.
* `{{H6781}}` **tsâmîyd** (bracelet, covering): This term for **bracelet** appears multiple times alongside **nezem**. In the account of Rebekah, she receives both an **earring** and **bracelets**, which are presented and observed together [[Genesis 24:30]].
* `{{H5694}}` **ʻâgîyl** (earring): A term for a round ring for the ears, it is used in conjunction with **nezem** to describe complete adornment. God's symbolic beautification of Jerusalem includes putting a **jewel** `{{H5141}}` on her forehead and **earrings** `{{H5694}}` in her ears [[Ezekiel 16:12]].
### Theological Significance
The symbolic weight of `{{H5141}}` is significant in scripture.
* **Sign of Blessing and Status:** The **nezem**, typically made of **gold** `{{H2091}}`, functions as a sign of wealth and blessing. After his trials, Job's friends each give him a piece of money and an **earring** of gold, contributing to the restoration of his prosperity [[Job 42:11]].
* **Object of Devotion and Idolatry:** These valuable ornaments represent personal wealth that can be surrendered for a higher purpose. The Israelites willingly offered their **earrings** for the tabernacle [[Exodus 35:22]], yet they also used the same items to create the golden calf, showing how personal treasures can be used for both true worship and idolatry [[Exodus 32:3]]. Similarly, Jacob's household gave up their **earrings** along with their foreign gods as an act of purification [[Genesis 35:4]].
* **Metaphor for Character:** The book of Proverbs uses the **nezem** to illustrate wisdom and folly. A wise reprover is compared to a valuable **earring** of gold to an obedient ear [[Proverbs 25:12]], while a beautiful but foolish woman is a **jewel** of gold in a swine's snout [[Proverbs 11:22]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5141}}` **nezem** is more than a simple piece of jewelry. It is an object of value that signifies wealth, is given as a significant gift, and is surrendered in acts of both holy devotion and grave idolatry. Its use in scripture illustrates how a common ornament can become a powerful symbol, representing a person's status, their allegiances, and the very nature of wisdom and folly.
TRV