### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻôwphereth**, represented by `{{H5777}}`, is the term for **lead**. It appears 9 times across 9 unique verses in the Bible. Its definition points to its dusty color. The word is used literally as a heavy metal, often in contexts of commerce, metallurgy, and judgment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5777}}` is used to illustrate both physical properties and symbolic meanings. Its weight is emphasized when the Egyptians "sank as **lead** in the mighty waters" [[Exodus 15:10]]. It is also listed as a commodity, traded alongside silver, iron, and tin [[Ezekiel 27:12]]. In a unique context, Job expresses a desire for his words to be permanently "graven with an iron pen and **lead** in the rock" [[Job 19:24]]. The metal is frequently associated with the process of refining other metals, often being consumed in the fire [[Jeremiah 6:29]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context of `{{H5777}}` as a common, heavy metal used in refining:
* `{{H3701}}` **keçeph** (silver): Lead is often mentioned in relation to the refining of **silver**, where Israel is described as the "dross of **silver**" which includes lead [[Ezekiel 22:18]]. In contrast to valuable **silver**, lead represents a baser material.
* `{{H1270}}` **barzel** (iron): As a strong, common metal, **iron** is frequently listed with lead in inventories of metals for trade or purification ([[Ezekiel 27:12]], [[Numbers 31:22]]). Both are gathered into the furnace for judgment [[Ezekiel 22:20]].
* `{{H3564}}` **kûwr** (furnace): This is the vessel where the refining process takes place. Israel is likened to base metals, including lead, that are gathered into the **furnace** to be melted ([[Ezekiel 22:18]], [[Ezekiel 22:20]]). Egypt is also called an "iron **furnace**" [[Jeremiah 11:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5777}}` is primarily symbolic, representing impurity, judgment, and the heaviness of sin.
* **Symbol of Impurity:** In God's assessment of Israel, the nation has become like **dross** `{{H5509}}`, a collection of base metals including **lead**, brass, tin, and iron, all to be gathered into the furnace ([[Ezekiel 22:18]], [[Ezekiel 22:20]]). This illustrates a fall from a valued state to one of impurity.
* **Instrument of Judgment:** In Zechariah's vision, a "talent of **lead**" is cast upon the mouth of an ephah containing a woman named **Wickedness** `{{H7564}}` [[Zechariah 5:8]]. The heavy **lead** serves as an unremovable seal, symbolizing the finality and weight of God's judgment against sin.
* **Metaphor for Futile Works:** Jeremiah describes a refining process where the founder melts in vain because the **lead** is consumed by the fire, yet the **wicked** `{{H7451}}` are not "plucked away" `{{H5423}}` [[Jeremiah 6:29]]. This powerful image portrays a situation where the means of purification are exhausted without achieving the desired result.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5777}}` **ʻôwphereth** is more than just a literal metal. While it denotes the physical substance of **lead**, valued in trade and known for its weight ([[Exodus 15:10]], [[Ezekiel 27:12]]), its greater significance lies in its symbolic use. Scripture employs **lead** as a metaphor for moral impurity and the dross that God seeks to purge from His people through the furnace of judgment. It represents the heavy, unyielding nature of sin and the finality of divine judgment when used to seal away wickedness.
TRV