### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tsammûwq**, represented by `{{H6778}}`, refers to a **cake of dried grapes** or a **bunch (cluster) of raisins**. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. In each instance, it denotes a valuable and easily transportable food source, often given as a gift or as part of larger provisions.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Biblically, `{{H6778}}` is consistently presented as part of a larger collection of supplies. Abigail brings a hundred **clusters of raisins** to David as part of a substantial offering to appease him [[1 Samuel 25:18]]. Similarly, Ziba meets David with provisions that include a hundred **bunches of raisins** [[2 Samuel 16:1]]. The word is also used to describe the provisions brought to David's men with great joy by their kinsmen [[1 Chronicles 12:40]]. In a dramatic instance, a piece of a fig cake and two **clusters of raisins** are given to revive an exhausted Egyptian, whose spirit returns after he had eaten [[1 Samuel 30:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words for provisions are frequently mentioned alongside raisins:
* `{{H1690}}` **dᵉbêlâh** (cake (lump) of figs): This term for pressed figs often appears with raisins as a staple provision. It is also mentioned as being used medicinally as a **lump of figs** to heal a boil [[2 Kings 20:7]].
* `{{H3899}}` **lechem** (food... especially bread): As a foundational food item, bread is almost always included in the supplies that feature raisins. Scripture notes that man does not live by **bread** only, but by every word that proceeds from the LORD [[Deuteronomy 8:3]].
* `{{H3196}}` **yayin** (wine): This fermented beverage is another common component of the provisions. **Wine** is described as something that can be a mocker, and those deceived by it are not wise [[Proverbs 20:1]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{H6778}}` highlights several practical and symbolic themes:
* **Essential Sustenance:** Raisins are shown to be a concentrated source of energy, capable of reviving a person near death from starvation and exhaustion after three days without food or water [[1 Samuel 30:12]].
* **Token of Hospitality and Peace:** The offering of raisins, as part of a larger gift, serves as an act of peacemaking by Abigail [[1 Samuel 25:18]] and a gesture of support from Ziba [[2 Samuel 16:1]].
* **Expression of Joy and Abundance:** When the tribes unite to support David, the abundant supply of food, including **bunches of raisins**, is directly linked to the "joy in Israel" [[1 Chronicles 12:40]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6778}}` is not merely a dried fruit but a significant element of biblical life. It functions as a practical provision for travelers and armies, a tool for diplomacy and reconciliation, and a symbol of abundance and celebration. Its consistent appearance with other staples like figs `{{H1690}}`, bread `{{H3899}}`, and wine `{{H3196}}` solidifies its place as a valued commodity for both physical survival and social expression.
TRV