### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **pânîyn**, represented by `{{H6443}}`, signifies a precious gem, defined as probably a **pearl** or a **ruby**. It appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible. In scripture, it is consistently used as a high standard of material value, primarily to emphasize the greater worth of intangible concepts like wisdom and character.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H6443}}` serves almost exclusively as a point of comparison. The unparalleled value of wisdom is a dominant theme, with Proverbs stating that wisdom is "better than **rubies**" [[Proverbs 8:11]] and "more precious than **rubies**" [[Proverbs 3:15]]. This sentiment is echoed in the book of Job, where the "price of wisdom is above **rubies**" [[Job 28:18]]. The term also elevates the worth of a "virtuous woman," whose price is "far above **rubies**" [[Proverbs 31:10]]. In a physical description, it illustrates the healthy appearance of the Nazarites, who "were more ruddy in body than **rubies**" [[Lamentations 4:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of preciousness and value:
* `{{H2091}}` **zâhâb** (gold): This term for **gold** is listed alongside a "multitude of **rubies**" to contrast material wealth with the superior value of the "lips of knowledge" [[Proverbs 20:15]].
* `{{H3368}}` **yâqâr** (valuable): This adjective is used to declare that wisdom is "more **precious** than **rubies**," directly establishing a hierarchy of worth [[Proverbs 3:15]].
* `{{H4377}}` **meker** (price): Meaning **price** or value, this word is used to establish the worth of a virtuous woman, whose **price** is far above that of rubies [[Proverbs 31:10]].
* `{{H5601}}` **çappîyr** (sapphire): This word for **sapphire** appears in the same verse as `{{H6443}}` to describe the polished appearance of the Nazarites [[Lamentations 4:7]].
* `{{H7215}}` **râʼmâh** (coral) and `{{H1378}}` **gâbîysh** (pearl): In Job, **coral** and **pearls** are mentioned together as items of great worth, yet both are deemed less valuable than wisdom, whose price is above rubies [[Job 28:18]].
### Theological Significance
The consistent use of `{{H6443}}` establishes a clear biblical hierarchy of value.
* **Supremacy of Wisdom:** The primary role of `{{H6443}}` is to serve as a benchmark for high material value that is repeatedly and explicitly surpassed by wisdom ([[Proverbs 3:15]], [[Proverbs 8:11]], [[Job 28:18]]).
* **Value of Character:** The term is used to place the worth of a virtuous person above that of precious gems, establishing that moral strength and good character are more valuable than material riches [[Proverbs 31:10]].
* **The Worth of Knowledge:** By contrasting a "multitude of **rubies**" with the "lips of knowledge," scripture teaches that true value is found in understanding and righteous speech, not in physical treasures [[Proverbs 20:15]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6443}}` functions as far more than a simple name for a gemstone. It is a powerful literary device used to measure and define ultimate worth. By consistently placing wisdom, character, and knowledge "above **rubies**," the biblical narrative uses this term to illustrate that true and lasting value is found not in earthly possessions but in intangible virtues.
TRV