### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **pishtâh**, represented by `{{H6594}}`, refers to **flax** and, by implication, a wick or **tow**. It appears 4 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible. While it can denote the literal flax plant, it is often used figuratively to represent something fragile and easily extinguished.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H6594}}` is first seen in an agricultural context during the plagues of Egypt. The Bible states that "the **flax** and the barley was smitten" [[Exodus 9:31]], noting that the **flax** was **bolled** `{{H1392}}`, indicating it was in a mature stage of growth. In Isaiah, the word is used metaphorically to describe both divine gentleness and divine judgment. A messianic prophecy declares that "the smoking **flax** shall he not quench" [[Isaiah 42:3]], illustrating tender care for the weak. Conversely, God's power over mighty armies is shown when they are "quenched as **tow**" [[Isaiah 43:17]], extinguished completely and effortlessly.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the meaning and context of **flax**:
* `{{H1392}}` **gibʻôl** (bolled): This term describes the calyx of a flower and is used to specify the growth stage of the **flax** when it was destroyed in Egypt [[Exodus 9:31]].
* `{{H3544}}` **kêheh** (smoking): Meaning feeble or obscure, this word modifies **flax** in [[Isaiah 42:3]] to depict a wick that is barely burning, symbolizing faint hope or life.
* `{{H3518}}` **kâbâh** (quench): This verb, meaning to extinguish, is central to the metaphorical uses of **flax**. It describes the gentle act of *not* putting out a smoking wick [[Isaiah 42:3]] as well as the decisive act of extinguishing an enemy army like **tow** [[Isaiah 43:17]].
* `{{H7533}}` **râtsats** (bruise): Used in the phrase "a bruised reed" which runs parallel to "the smoking flax," this word emphasizes a state of being crushed or oppressed [[Isaiah 42:3]].
### Theological Significance
The thematic significance of `{{H6594}}` is seen in its contrasting applications:
* **Divine Judgment:** In its literal use, the destruction of the **flax** crop is a tangible act of God's power and judgment upon Egypt for its disobedience [[Exodus 9:31]].
* **Messianic Gentleness:** The "smoking **flax**" becomes a symbol of the weak, the faint, and the struggling. The promise that it will not be **quenched** `{{H3518}}` points to a savior who handles the fragile with care rather than breaking them [[Isaiah 42:3]].
* **Effortless Annihilation:** When used as **tow**, the word illustrates the futility of human power against God. The formidable Egyptian army, with its **chariot** `{{H7393}}` and **horse** `{{H5483}}`, is rendered as flammable and insignificant as a strand of flax fiber before God's judgment [[Isaiah 43:17]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6594}}` **pishtâh** is a word with a dual identity. It is both a literal plant subject to the cycles of agriculture and divine judgment, and a powerful metaphor in prophetic literature. It uniquely represents two opposing fates: the gentle preservation of the weak and the swift, complete destruction of the arrogant. The imagery of **flax**, whether as a smoking wick or as flammable **tow**, serves as a vivid illustration of both God's mercy and his power.
TRV