### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻĕlîy**, represented by `{{H5940}}`, is the term for a **pestle**. Its base definition relates to being lifted, and it appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, making its single usage highly specific and illustrative.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H5940}}` is in [[Proverbs 27:22]], where it is used in a powerful metaphor about the nature of foolishness. The verse describes the futility of trying to remove foolishness from a fool. It states that even if you **bray** `{{H3806}}` a **fool** `{{H191}}` in a **mortar** `{{H4388}}` with a **pestle**, their **foolishness** `{{H200}}` will not **depart** `{{H5493}}` from them. The **pestle** here is the tool of intense physical processing, emphasizing that no amount of external force can cure a deep-seated spiritual or moral flaw.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of `{{H5940}}` is clarified by the words used alongside it in its only context:
* `{{H3806}}` **kâthash** (bray): This verb means "to butt or pound," describing the forceful action performed by the pestle.
* `{{H4388}}` **maktêsh** (mortar): This is the hollow vessel in which the pounding occurs. It is used elsewhere to refer to a "hollow place" [[Judges 15:19]].
* `{{H191}}` **ʼĕvîyl** (fool): This is the subject of the proverb, a person described as silly and perverse. The Bible notes that a **fool**'s way seems right in his own eyes [[Proverbs 12:15]].
* `{{H200}}` **ʼivveleth** (foolishness): This is the quality that the pestle cannot remove. It is a state of "silliness" that is bound in the heart [[Proverbs 22:15]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5940}}` is tied entirely to its use in this single, potent proverb.
* **The Incorrigibility of Folly:** The primary lesson is that some foolishness is so ingrained it is incorrigible. The image of braying a **fool** `{{H191}}` with a **pestle** like he is **wheat** `{{H7383}}` demonstrates that what works to refine a substance cannot refine a person who rejects wisdom. This aligns with descriptions of fools who despise wisdom and instruction [[Proverbs 1:7]].
* **Spiritual vs. Physical Reality:** The proverb uses the physical action of a **pestle** to highlight a spiritual truth. While a rod of correction may drive **foolishness** `{{H200}}` from a child [[Proverbs 22:15]], the fool described here is beyond that point. His condition is not a surface-level issue but one of character that will not **depart** `{{H5493}}`.
* **A Metaphor for Futility:** The **pestle** serves as an instrument in a picture of utter futility. The action is violent and thorough, yet completely ineffective. This illustrates the profound difficulty in changing someone whose foolishness is a core part of their identity.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5940}}` is a simple word for an agricultural tool, the **pestle**. However, its single use in scripture gives it a significant role in one of the Bible's most vivid metaphors. Through its inclusion in [[Proverbs 27:22]], it helps to paint a stark picture of the stubborn and inseparable nature of folly in a person who is committed to it, showing that some spiritual conditions cannot be remedied by external force.
TRV