### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tsappachath**, represented by `{{H6835}}`, refers to a **cruse** or saucer. Derived from a root meaning to expand, it describes a flat-style vessel. It appears only **7 times** in **7 unique verses**, yet it plays a significant role in each of its occurrences as a container for life-sustaining liquids.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6835}}` is consistently found in contexts of divine intervention and critical human moments. It is famously the **cruse** of oil belonging to the widow of Zarephath, which, along with her barrel of meal, miraculously does not fail during a famine, according to the word of the LORD through Elijah ([[1 Kings 17:14]], 16). In a separate event, the word describes a **cruse** of water at the head of a sleeping King Saul, which David takes as proof that he spared the LORD's anointed [[1 Samuel 26:12]]. A **cruse** of water also appears for Elijah, providing sustenance for him in the wilderness [[1 Kings 19:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and function of the **tsappachath**:
* `{{H3537}}` **kad** (a jar for domestic purposes; barrel, pitcher): This word is used in parallel with **tsappachath** in the story of the widow of Zarephath, where her "handful of meal in a **barrel**" is mentioned alongside her "little oil in a **cruse**" [[1 Kings 17:12]].
* `{{H4325}}` **mayim** (water): This is one of the two substances held within a **tsappachath** in scripture. Both the **cruse** taken by David from Saul's side and the one provided for Elijah in the wilderness contained **water** ([[1 Samuel 26:11]], [[1 Kings 19:6]]).
* `{{H8081}}` **shemen** (grease, especially liquid (as from the olive, often perfumed); figuratively, richness; anointing, oil): This is the other substance found in a **tsappachath**. The widow's **cruse** was filled with **oil** that did not fail, demonstrating God's provision [[1 Kings 17:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6835}}` is tied to its role in demonstrating God's power and highlighting key character virtues.
* **Divine Provision:** The primary significance of the **tsappachath** is as a vehicle for God's miraculous sustenance. The **cruse** of oil that does not fail provides for the widow and her son, showing God's care for the faithful in desperate times [[1 Kings 17:16]]. Similarly, a **cruse** of water is provided for a despairing Elijah [[1 Kings 19:6]].
* **Evidence of Mercy:** In the account of David and Saul, the **cruse** of water is not just a container but a symbol. By taking it, David proves he had the opportunity to kill Saul but chose mercy, refusing to "stretch forth mine hand against the LORD'S anointed" [[1 Samuel 26:11]].
* **Humble Vessel for a Great Purpose:** The **tsappachath** is a simple, everyday object. Its use in these narratives shows how God can utilize ordinary means to accomplish extraordinary acts of provision and how simple objects can serve as powerful testaments to faith and character.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6835}}` is a specific term for a cruse or small vessel that, despite its infrequent use, is central to powerful biblical stories. It consistently holds life-giving liquids like water and oil. Through its appearance in scripture, the **tsappachath** becomes a symbol of God's miraculous provision in times of scarcity and a tangible proof of mercy and righteousness in moments of conflict.
TRV