The Hebrew word ʻâthîyq, represented by H6266, is a term meaning durable. Its definition also conveys a sense of being antique, venerable, or splendid. It is a rare word, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible, where it describes an object of lasting quality.
The single use of H6266 is found in a prophecy concerning Tyre in Isaiah 23:18. The verse states that the city's "merchandise and her hire" will become "holiness to the LORD." This wealth is not to be hoarded or stored away. Instead, it will be used to provide for those who "dwell before the LORD," giving them enough to eat and durable clothing. In this context, the word signifies a provision that is not flimsy or temporary, but substantial and long-lasting, a direct result of the resources being consecrated to God.
Several related words in its immediate context help clarify the meaning of H6266:
- H4374 mᵉkaççeh (clothing): Defined as a covering or garment, this is the specific item described as "durable." The quality of the clothing is directly tied to the divine purpose it serves Isaiah 23:18.
- H5504 çachar (merchandise): Meaning profit from trade, this word identifies the source of the provision. The prophecy shows that worldly profit, when turned over to God, can be used for sacred ends Isaiah 23:18.
- H2630 châçan (lay up): This word, meaning to hoard or store, is used to show what will not be done with Tyre's wealth. It stands in direct contrast to the intended use of providing for God's people with durable goods Isaiah 23:18.
The theological weight of H6266, though based on one occurrence, is significant within its passage.
- Quality of Divine Provision: The word illustrates that when resources are dedicated to the LORD, the resulting provision for His people is of an enduring and high quality, as seen in the "durable clothing" Isaiah 23:18.
- Sanctification of Commerce: The prophecy demonstrates that wealth and "merchandise," often associated with worldly pursuits, can be sanctified. When consecrated to God, these resources serve a holy and lasting purpose for the community of faith Isaiah 23:18.
- Generosity over Hoarding: The passage explicitly contrasts the divine directive—using wealth to provide for others—with the worldly impulse to treasure and hoard it. The durability of the clothing signifies the lasting value of generosity over selfish accumulation Isaiah 23:18.
In summary, H6266 is a specific and potent word that, in its sole biblical appearance, conveys more than just physical durability. It is used to describe the nature of provision that flows from resources dedicated entirely to the LORD. It highlights a key theological principle: that which is given to God is not lost, but is transformed to provide for His people in a way that is substantial, reliable, and enduring.
TRV