### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tsîynôq**, represented by `{{H6729}}`, refers to a form of confinement known as **the pillory; stocks**. It is a very rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its meaning is derived from an unused root signifying the act of confining someone.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H6729}}` is in [[Jeremiah 29:26]]. In this verse, a letter outlines the responsibilities of a temple officer, stating that any man who is **mad** and "maketh himself a prophet" should be punished. The instruction is to "put him in **prison**, and in the **stocks**" [[Jeremiah 29:26]]. This places the term squarely in the context of institutional punishment and the suppression of what was deemed unauthorized prophetic activity.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the use of the stocks:
* `{{H4115}}` **mahpeketh** (a wrench, i.e. the stocks; prison, stocks): This word appears alongside `{{H6729}}` in the same verse, translated as "prison," indicating a place of physical confinement [[Jeremiah 29:26]]. It is also used to describe the stocks where the prophet Jeremiah himself was placed [[Jeremiah 20:2]].
* `{{H5012}}` **nâbâʼ** (to prophesy, i.e. speak (or sing) by inspiration (in prediction or simple discourse); prophesy(-ing), make self a prophet): This is the action that triggers the punishment. The authorities were directed to use the stocks against anyone who would "make himself a prophet" [[Jeremiah 29:26]].
* `{{H7696}}` **shâgaʻ** (to rave through insanity; (be, play the) mad (man)): This term describes the perceived mental state of the person to be punished. Prophetic behavior was being equated with being a "mad man," justifying confinement in the stocks [[Jeremiah 29:26]].
### Theological Significance
The theological and thematic weight of `{{H6729}}` is tied directly to its singular, pointed usage.
* **Authority and Control:** The stocks represent a tool of the established religious authority to enforce order and physically punish those seen as dissenters or illegitimate messengers.
* **Persecution of Prophets:** The verse explicitly links the act of prophecy with madness, showing how divine messages could be rejected and their speakers persecuted by the ruling powers [[Jeremiah 29:26]].
* **Physical Humiliation:** As a form of punishment, the stocks were meant not only for confinement but also for public humiliation, serving as a warning to others who might engage in similar activities.
### Summary
In summary, while **tsîynôq** `{{H6729}}` is exceptionally rare, its single appearance provides a clear and potent image. It is not just a word for an instrument of confinement, but a symbol of authoritative punishment aimed at silencing individuals considered disruptive. The context in [[Jeremiah 29:26]] uses it to illustrate the measures taken by the religious establishment to control those who would **prophesy** in a manner they deemed illegitimate or insane.
TRV