### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun סַלְסִלָּה (çalçillâh, `{{H5552}}`) is a rare term, appearing only once in the Hebrew Bible. Its base definition is "a twig (as pendulous)" and, by extension, "basket." The word is derived from the root סָלָה (salah, `{{H5549}}`), which carries the primary sense of "to lift up," "to cast up," or "to weigh." This etymological connection suggests that סַלְסִלָּה refers to a container that is designed to be lifted or to hold contents that might be weighed. The nuance of "pendulous twig" likely points to the woven nature of such a basket, where flexible branches or strands are intertwined, creating a receptacle that might hang or be carried. Thus, the core meaning encompasses both the material (woven twigs) and the function (a container for carrying).
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term סַלְסִלָּה (çalçillâh, `{{H5552}}`) appears exclusively in [[Jeremiah 6:9]]. In this solitary occurrence, it is found in its plural form, סַלְסִלּוֹת (salsillot). The verse reads: "Thus says the LORD of hosts: They shall thoroughly glean the remnant of Israel as a vine; turn your hand again as a grape-gatherer into the baskets." Here, the סַלְסִלּוֹת are explicitly identified as the receptacles into which a grape-gatherer collects the harvested fruit. The imagery is agricultural, depicting the meticulous and exhaustive process of gleaning a vineyard. This context confirms the meaning of סַלְסִלָּה as a basket used for gathering produce, specifically grapes. The thoroughness of the gleaning, extending even to the "remnant," underscores the intensity of the divine action being described, whether it be judgment or a thorough collection.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic connection for סַלְסִלָּה (çalçillâh, `{{H5552}}`) is its root, סָלָה (salah, `{{H5549}}`), which implies lifting or casting up. This root reinforces the idea of a container that is handled or carries a burden. While סַלְסִלָּה is unique in its specific form, other Hebrew words denote various types of baskets or containers, offering comparative insight into the material culture and agricultural practices of ancient Israel. These include:
* טֶנֶא (ṭeneʼ, `{{H2935}}`): A basket, notably used for carrying firstfruits to the priest in [[Deuteronomy 26:2]].
* כְּלוּב (kĕlûḇ, `{{H3619}}`): A cage or basket, used for fruit in prophetic visions ([[Amos 8:1]]) or for birds ([[Jeremiah 5:27]]).
* דוּד (dûḏ, `{{H1736}}`): A pot or basket, often for cooking or carrying various items ([[1 Samuel 2:14]]).
The distinctiveness of סַלְסִלָּה may lie in its specific etymological link to "pendulous twigs," suggesting a flexible, possibly hand-woven basket, well-suited for the delicate task of grape gathering.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of סַלְסִלָּה (çalçillâh, `{{H5552}}`) is almost entirely derived from its singular appearance in [[Jeremiah 6:9]]. In this prophetic oracle, the image of "gleaning the remnant of Israel as a vine" into "baskets" serves as a powerful metaphor for God's impending judgment and thorough dealing with His people. The meticulous nature of grape-gathering, where no fruit is left behind, illustrates the comprehensive and inescapable nature of divine action. The baskets, therefore, become symbols of the receptacles of this divine collection, whether it be for punishment or for a complete gathering for restoration. The passage underscores God's sovereignty and His precise execution of His will. The imagery conveys that God's work, whether in judgment or sifting, is not haphazard but deliberate and complete, ensuring that all that is intended for collection or removal will indeed be gathered into the designated containers.
### Summary
The Hebrew noun סַלְסִלָּה (çalçillâh, `{{H5552}}`) is a rare and evocative word, appearing only once in the biblical text. Derived from a root meaning "to lift up," and defined as "a twig (as pendulous)" leading to "basket," it describes a woven container, likely flexible and suited for carrying. Its sole occurrence in [[Jeremiah 6:9]] places it within an agricultural metaphor, where it refers to the "baskets" used by grape-gatherers. In this context, the סַלְסִלּוֹת symbolize the receptacles for the "remnant of Israel" being meticulously "gleaned" by the Lord. The word, though simple in its literal meaning, takes on profound theological weight by underscoring the thoroughness and precision of God's actions, whether in judgment or in the complete gathering of His people. It serves as a concrete image that anchors a powerful prophetic declaration of divine sovereignty and meticulous justice.
TRV