The Hebrew word ʻâgîyl, represented by H5694, refers to something round, specifically an earring. Based on its root, it signifies a circular object worn in the ear. It appears just 2 times in 2 unique verses, highlighting its use as a specific type of personal adornment in significant scriptural contexts.
The word's usage illustrates its role in both human offerings to God and divine gifts to people. In Numbers 31:50, earrings H5694 are part of an oblation H7133 of gold H2091 brought before the LORD H3068 to make atonement H3722 for the souls of the people. Conversely, in Ezekiel 16:12, God symbolically adorns Jerusalem by putting earrings H5694 in her ears H241 as part of a display of divine favor that includes a beautiful H8597 crown H5850 upon her head H7218.
Several related words help clarify the context in which ʻâgîyl is found:
- H2091 zâhâb (gold): The material of the earrings offered in Numbers 31:50. The definition is "from an unused root meaning to shimmer; gold... gold(-en), fair weather." This underscores the value of the object.
- H241 ʼôzen (ear): The specific body part where the earring is worn, defined as "broadness. i.e. (concrete) the ear (from its form in man)" Ezekiel 16:12.
- H2885 ṭabbaʻath (ring): Another circular ornament listed alongside earrings in the offering for atonement, defined as "a ring of any kind" Numbers 31:50.
- H5141 nezem (earring, jewel): A more general term for an ornament that can be an earring or a nose-ring. It is used in parallel with ʻâgîyl in the symbolic adornment of Jerusalem Ezekiel 16:12.
The theological significance of H5694 is demonstrated in its two appearances:
- Worship and Atonement: In Numbers 31:50, the giving of earrings is part of a voluntary oblation H7133 used to make atonement H3722 for the soul H5315. This connects a personal possession of value directly to an act of reconciliation with God.
- Divine Favor and Honor: In Ezekiel 16:12, God bestows earrings upon Jerusalem as a sign of His covenant love and His desire to make her beautiful and glorious. The act of adornment symbolizes His blessing and elevation of His people.
In summary, while ʻâgîyl H5694 is a rare word, its context is rich with meaning. It is not merely a piece of jewelry but an object of significant spiritual transaction. It functions as both a valuable item given up by humanity for the purpose of atonement Numbers 31:50 and as a gift from God to signify honor and beauty Ezekiel 16:12, illustrating how physical objects can represent profound spiritual realities.
TRV