### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **çal**, represented by `{{H5536}}`, is defined as a **basket**. Derived from a term for a willow twig, it refers to an osier basket. It appears **15 times** across **13 unique verses** in the Bible, primarily as a vessel for carrying offerings and food.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H5536}}` appears in two primary contexts: sacred ritual and narrative. It is central to the consecration of Aaron and his sons, where it is called the "**basket** of consecrations" and used to hold the bread for the offering ([[Leviticus 8:31]], [[Exodus 29:32]]). Similarly, it is used to present the offerings associated with the Nazarite vow ([[Numbers 6:17]], [[Numbers 6:19]]). In a narrative context, Gideon uses a **basket** to carry meat for an offering [[Judges 6:19]], and it features prominently in the chief baker's dream, which Joseph interprets [[Genesis 40:16-18]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are frequently associated with the contents of the **basket** `{{H5536}}`, especially in ceremonial contexts:
* `{{H4682}}` **matstsâh** (unleavened): The basket is repeatedly described as holding **unleavened** bread, a key element in offerings [[Numbers 6:15]]. It also refers to the festival itself [[Exodus 23:15]].
* `{{H3899}}` **lechem** (bread): The **basket** is specified as the container for the **bread** to be eaten by the priests during their consecration [[Leviticus 8:31]].
* `{{H2471}}` **challâh** (cake): Specific offerings taken from the **basket** include a **cake** of oiled bread [[Leviticus 8:26]].
* `{{H7550}}` **râqîyq** (wafer): Along with cakes, thin **wafers** were also placed in the **basket** for offerings, such as those for the Nazarite [[Numbers 6:19]].
* `{{H374}}` **ʼêyphâh** (ephah): This measure of grain is mentioned when Gideon prepares an **ephah** of flour to make the unleavened cakes he places in the **basket** [[Judges 6:19]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H5536}}` is tied to its function as a vessel for holy or portentous items.
* **Vessel for Consecration:** The **basket** is integral to the priestly and Nazarite ceremonies, serving as the designated container for the sacred bread and cakes to be presented before the LORD ([[Exodus 29:3]], [[Numbers 6:17]]).
* **Container of Provisions:** It is used to carry food for a sacred purpose, whether it is meat for Gideon's offering to the angel [[Judges 6:19]] or the bakemeats for Pharaoh in the chief baker's dream [[Genesis 40:17]].
* **Symbol of Destiny:** In Joseph's interpretation of the dream, the three **baskets** are not merely containers but are symbolic, representing three days and foretelling the baker's fate [[Genesis 40:18]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5536}}` **çal** is a term that, while simply meaning **basket**, carries significant weight in its scriptural applications. It is consistently linked with acts of worship and divine communication, serving as a sanctified container for offerings in the tabernacle and as a key symbol in a prophetic dream. The use of **çal** demonstrates how a common object is elevated to a role of ritual and symbolic importance.
TRV