The Hebrew word çûwth, represented by H5497, is a specific term for clothing or clothes. It is an exceedingly rare word, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible. Its meaning is derived from the concept of a covering and is defined entirely by its singular appearance in scripture.
The sole use of H5497 is found within Jacob's prophetic blessing over his son Judah. In a rich display of imagery signifying immense abundance, the text states that Judah would wash his garments in wine and his clothes in the blood of grapes Genesis 49:11. This context places the word within a vision of a prosperity so great that wine, a valuable commodity, would be as common as water for laundering.
Several related words from its only context in Genesis 49:11 help illuminate its meaning:
- H3830 lᵉbûwsh (a garment): This word is used in parallel with H5497 in the same verse, serving as a direct synonym for clothing or apparel. It is often used more broadly for any kind of vesture, as when lots are cast for the Messiah's vesture Psalms 22:18.
- H3526 kâbaç (to wash): This is the action performed on the clothes. It properly means to trample or stamp with the feet, as was done in the fulling process. It is also used figuratively for spiritual cleansing, as in the plea to God, "wash me throughly from mine iniquity" Psalms 51:2.
- H1818 dâm (blood): In Genesis 49:11, this word is used poetically to describe the juice of the grape. This association connects the imagery of wine with the vital concept of blood, which is central to life and the covenant, as stated in Leviticus 17:11, "For the life of the flesh is in the blood".
The theological significance of H5497 is entirely tied to its unique prophetic context.
- Prophetic Abundance: The act of washing clothes in wine symbolizes a future of extraordinary blessing and prosperity for the tribe of Judah, from which kings and the Messiah would come.
- Symbolism of "Blood of Grapes": The use of wine, specifically termed "the blood of grapes" H6025, to wash clothing H5497 creates a powerful and lasting image. It connects the abundance of the land with the theme of blood, which is fundamental to concepts of covenant and redemption throughout the Bible Exodus 24:8.
- Messianic Foreshadowing: As part of the prophecy concerning Judah, the imagery of garments washed in wine has been seen as pointing toward a king whose robes are stained not by dirt, but by the fruit of the vine, symbolizing victory and overflowing blessing.
In summary, while H5497 is one of the rarest words in the biblical lexicon, its single appearance is unforgettable. It is not a simple word for clothes but a component of a profound prophecy. Embedded in Genesis 49:11, çûwth contributes to a powerful vision of Judah's future, weaving together themes of royal destiny, agricultural abundance, and the deeply symbolic nature of wine and blood.
TRV