or צָמִד; from צָמַד; a bracelet or arm-clasp; generally, a lid; bracelet, covering.
Transliteration:tsâmîyd
Pronunciation:tsaw-meed'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word צָמִיד (tsâmîyd), Strong's `{{H6781}}`, derives from the root צָמַד (tsâmad), `{{H6780}}`, meaning "to bind," "to tie," "to join," or "to cling." This etymological connection illuminates the core meaning of `{{H6781}}` as something that binds or fastens. Its primary semantic range in biblical usage refers to an "arm-clasp" or "bracelet," an ornamental item worn around the wrist or arm. The underlying sense of "binding" is evident in how a bracelet fastens around a limb. While the base definition also includes "a lid" or "covering," implying something that binds or closes an opening, this particular sense of `{{H6781}}` is not attested in the biblical text. Thus, within the biblical corpus, `{{H6781}}` exclusively denotes an article of jewelry, specifically a bracelet, often made of precious metal.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word צָמִיד (tsâmîyd) appears five times in the Hebrew Bible, consistently referring to bracelets:
* **[[Genesis 24:22]]**: This is the first occurrence, where Abraham's servant gives Rebekah a golden nose ring and two golden bracelets (צְמִידִים, plural) weighing ten shekels. These gifts are presented immediately after Rebekah demonstrates hospitality and before the servant reveals his mission.
* **[[Genesis 24:30]]**: Rebekah's brother Laban sees the "earring and bracelets" on his sister's hands, prompting him to invite the servant into their home. The visible adornments signify the servant's generosity and, by extension, the wealth and status of his master, Abraham.
* **[[Genesis 24:47]]**: The servant recounts his encounter with Rebekah to Laban and Bethuel, explicitly stating, "I put the earring upon her face, and the bracelets upon her hands." In this context, the bracelets are presented as significant tokens of betrothal, symbolizing the covenant being forged between the two families through the proposed marriage of Isaac and Rebekah. They are not merely gifts, but valuable indicators of commitment and future provision.
* **[[Numbers 31:50]]**: Following the victory over the Midianites, the Israelite commanders bring an offering to the Lord from the spoils of war. Among the various "jewels of gold" listed are "chains, and bracelets, rings, earrings, and tablets," all consecrated to make atonement for their souls. Here, צָמִיד signifies valuable personal adornment, deemed worthy as a sacred offering to God.
* **[[Ezekiel 16:11]]**: In a powerful prophetic allegory, God describes His gracious care for Jerusalem (personified as an abandoned infant), saying, "I decked thee also with ornaments, and I put bracelets upon thy hands, and a chain on thy neck." In this metaphorical context, the bracelets represent divine beautification, honor, and provision, signifying God's lavish grace and covenant faithfulness in adorning His chosen people.
Across these occurrences, צָמִיד consistently denotes an item of significant value and beauty, often associated with wealth, status, betrothal, and divine favor.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the verbal root צָמַד (tsâmad), `{{H6780}}`, from which `{{H6781}}` is derived. This root emphasizes the action of "binding," "joining," or "fastening," which is inherent in the function of a bracelet.
Other related concepts and words include:
* **Adornment and Jewelry:** `{{H6781}}` falls under the broader category of personal adornment. Other Hebrew words for jewelry include נֶזֶם (nezem), `{{H5141}}` (earring, nose ring), often paired with `{{H6781}}` in Genesis 24; חֲלִי (chali), `{{H2481}}` (ornament, jewel); and כֶּלִי (keli), `{{H3627}}` (vessel, article), which can encompass jewelry.
* **Precious Metals:** Bracelets were typically made of gold (זָהָב, zahab, `{{H2091}}`), indicating their high value and the status of the wearer or giver.
* **Betrothal and Covenant:** The role of bracelets in Genesis 24 links them to the concept of betrothal gifts, which sealed a commitment and foreshadowed marriage. This ties into the broader biblical theme of covenant relationships.
* **Wealth and Status:** The possession and gifting of bracelets signify prosperity and social standing.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of צָמִיד (tsâmîyd) is multifaceted, rooted in its consistent biblical usage as an item of value, beauty, and symbolic meaning:
1. **Divine Grace and Adornment:** Most profoundly seen in [[Ezekiel 16:11]], God's act of adorning Jerusalem with bracelets illustrates His sovereign grace and lavish provision. It portrays God as the benevolent Bridegroom who beautifies His chosen people, transforming them from a state of destitution to one of honor and splendor. This signifies God's covenant faithfulness and His desire for His people to reflect His glory.
2. **Symbol of Betrothal and Covenant:** In the narrative of Rebekah's betrothal to Isaac ([[Genesis 24:22]], [[Genesis 24:30]], [[Genesis 24:47]]), the bracelets serve as tangible symbols of a binding agreement and a future union. They represent the commitment of the groom's family and the value placed upon the bride. Theologically, this can be seen as a type for God's covenant relationship with Israel, where He "gifts" and "adorns" His people as His chosen bride.
3. **Valuable Offering and Consecration:** The inclusion of bracelets among the spoils of war dedicated to the Lord in [[Numbers 31:50]] highlights their intrinsic value. This act of offering signifies the consecration of valuable possessions to God, acknowledging His sovereignty and providing a means of atonement or purification. It underscores the principle that the most precious things can and should be devoted to divine purposes.
4. **Beauty and Honor:** Throughout its occurrences, צָמִיד consistently represents an object of beauty and honor. This reflects the biblical appreciation for physical beauty as a gift from God, and the use of adornments to signify esteem and respect.
### Summary
The Hebrew word צָמִיד (tsâmîyd), `{{H6781}}`, consistently refers to a "bracelet" or "arm-clasp" in the biblical text, deriving its meaning from the root "to bind" or "to join." Though the base definition includes "lid," this usage is not found in scripture. Biblically, צָמִיד signifies a valuable item of personal adornment, often made of gold. Its occurrences highlight its role as a symbol of wealth, status, and beauty. More significantly, bracelets are presented as crucial elements in betrothal rites, signifying commitment and covenant ([[Genesis 24:22]], [[Genesis 24:30]], [[Genesis 24:47]]). They are also listed among valuable offerings consecrated to the Lord ([[Numbers 31:50]]), demonstrating their suitability for divine dedication. Most profoundly, in [[Ezekiel 16:11]], צָמִיד serves as a powerful metaphor for God's lavish grace, provision, and beautification of His chosen people, underscoring His covenant faithfulness and the honor He bestows upon them. Thus, צָמִיד is more than mere jewelry; it is a rich symbol of binding relationships, divine favor, and consecrated value within the biblical narrative.
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