(Aramaic) from a root corresponding to that of פַּטִּישׁ; a gown (as if hammered out wide); hose.
Transliteration:paṭṭîysh
Pronunciation:pat-teesh'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H6361}}`, transliterated as *paṭṭîysh*, is presented with a base definition describing a type of garment: "a gown (as if hammered out wide); hose." This definition suggests an Aramaic origin and explicitly links the word to a root corresponding to `{{H6360}}`, which signifies a "hammer." The "as if hammered out wide" clause within the definition points to a potential etymological connection between the garment and the action of hammering or shaping. This could imply a fabric that has been beaten or pressed to achieve a certain breadth or density, or perhaps a garment designed for expansive coverage or a specific, shaped form. The semantic range, based on this definition, would encompass articles of clothing, specifically those with a broad or shaped quality, possibly derived from a manufacturing process involving forceful shaping, such as fulling or stretching.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Despite the base definition's focus on a garment, the sole occurrence of `{{H6361}}` in the Hebrew Bible, found in [[Isaiah 41:7]], clearly denotes a "hammer." The verse describes the process of idol craftsmanship: "So the carpenter encouraged the goldsmith, and he who smooths with the hammer (פַּטִּישׁ, `{{H6361}}`) encouraged him who strikes the anvil, saying of the soldering, 'It is good'; and he fastened it with nails, so that it would not totter." In this context, `{{H6361}}` functions as a concrete tool, an implement used for striking and shaping metal, specifically in the creation of false gods. This presents a notable divergence between the provided lexical definition and the word's actual contextual usage. The passage highlights human effort and reliance on tools to fashion inanimate objects, contrasting sharply with the divine power of the true God, who alone is the Creator and Sustainer.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is `{{H6360}}` (paṭṭîysh), which is the Hebrew cognate sharing the same transliteration and meaning "hammer." This connection is explicitly noted in the etymology of `{{H6361}}`. Both words derive from a root concept of striking or beating, which is central to the function of a hammer. This root is also related to the verb פָּטַשׁ (patash), meaning "to beat" or "to strike." The concept of "hammering" extends to ideas of shaping, forging, building, and even destruction or judgment. If one were to explore the "gown/hose" aspect of the definition, related concepts would include biblical terms for clothing, garments (e.g., בֶּגֶד, beged, שִׂמְלָה, simlah), and the processes of textile production or tailoring, though no direct linguistic link to these is evident from `{{H6361}}` itself beyond the provided definition.
### Theological Significance
Given the actual biblical usage of `{{H6361}}` as a "hammer" in [[Isaiah 41:7]], its theological significance is primarily tied to the futility of idolatry and the sovereignty of God. The hammer, a tool of human ingenuity and labor, is employed by craftsmen to fashion lifeless idols. This act underscores humanity's misplaced trust in created things rather than the Creator. The prophet Isaiah contrasts the limited power of human tools and creations with the omnipotence of Yahweh, who alone "calls the generations from the beginning" ([[Isaiah 41:4]]). The hammer, in this context, symbolizes the finite and dependent nature of human endeavor when set against the infinite and self-sufficient power of God. While the provided definition suggests a garment, its theological import would be speculative without biblical attestation in that sense, perhaps touching on human adornment or status. However, the concrete image of the hammer powerfully conveys the theme of divine sovereignty over human artifice.
### Summary
The word `{{H6361}}` (paṭṭîysh) presents a unique lexical challenge. While its base definition is given as "a gown (as if hammered out wide); hose," explicitly linking it to the concept of hammering, its sole biblical occurrence in [[Isaiah 41:7]] unambiguously refers to a "hammer." This discrepancy highlights the importance of contextual analysis in biblical scholarship. In its one appearance, `{{H6361}}` functions as a tool used by human craftsmen in the futile endeavor of idol-making, powerfully contrasting human limitation with divine omnipotence. The word's etymological connection to "hammering" (via `{{H6360}}`) underscores the theme of shaping and forging, whether of material objects or, metaphorically, of destinies.
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