### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nᵉʻôreth**, represented by `{{H5296}}`, is a term for **tow**, which is something shaken out, like the refuse of flax. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, where it serves as a powerful symbol of weakness and extreme flammability.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H5296}}` illustrates extreme fragility. In the account of Samson, his bonds are described as breaking as easily as "a thread of **tow** is broken when it toucheth the fire" [[Judges 16:9]], emphasizing a complete lack of resistance. The term is also used prophetically in Isaiah, where the **strong** are warned they will become like **tow**, and their own works like a **spark** that ignites them, causing them to **burn** together in judgment [[Isaiah 1:31]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the context and meaning of **tow**:
* `{{H2634}}` **châçôn** (powerful; strong): This word is used in direct contrast to `{{H5296}}`. In [[Isaiah 1:31]], those who are **strong** are the very ones who will become as weak and combustible as **tow**.
* `{{H784}}` **ʼêsh** (fire): This is the catalyst that reveals the weakness of **tow**. In [[Judges 16:9]], it is the simple touch of **fire** that causes the thread of **tow** to instantly break.
* `{{H5213}}` **nîytsôwts** (a spark): In Isaiah's prophecy, a **spark** is all that is needed to ignite the **tow**, symbolizing how swiftly judgment can consume the powerful [[Isaiah 1:31]].
* `{{H1197}}` **bâʻar** (to kindle, i.e. consume... burn): This word describes the fate of **tow** when it meets its igniter. The **strong** who have become like **tow** will **burn** together with the spark that sets them ablaze [[Isaiah 1:31]].
### Theological Significance
The metaphorical weight of `{{H5296}}` is significant, serving as a biblical illustration of frailty and destruction.
* **A Symbol of Judgment:** The transformation of the **strong** `{{H2634}}` into **tow** `{{H5296}}` is a potent image of divine judgment. It shows that human strength becomes nothing more than fuel for destruction when it stands in rebellion [[Isaiah 1:31]].
* **A Standard for Frailty:** The image of a thread of **tow** breaking at the touch of **fire** `{{H784}}` establishes it as a benchmark for something that is effortlessly and completely destroyed, highlighting a state of ultimate powerlessness [[Judges 16:9]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5296}}` is more than just a word for the refuse of flax. Though appearing only twice, it functions as a sharp and vivid metaphor. It is used to demonstrate both the breaking of physical bonds with no effort and the sudden, complete consumption of the pridefully strong. The word **nᵉʻôreth** powerfully illustrates how scripture uses simple, tangible objects to convey profound truths about the nature of strength, weakness, and divine judgment.
TRV