from צָפַר (in the denominative sense (from צִפּוֹר) of scratching); properly, a claw, i.e. (human) nail; also the point of astyle (or pen, tipped with adamant); nail, point.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tsippôren**, represented by `{{H6856}}`, refers to a **claw** or **nail**, and also the **point** of a pen. It is a rare term, appearing only **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning shifts between a literal human fingernail and the metaphorical point of a writing instrument.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its two appearances, `{{H6856}}` carries distinct meanings. In [[Deuteronomy 21:12]], it is used literally as **nails**, describing a requirement for a captive woman to **pare** her **nails** as part of her transition into an Israelite household. In contrast, [[Jeremiah 17:1]] uses the word metaphorically to describe the **point** of an iron pen. This **point** is used to permanently grave the sin of Judah upon the table of their hearts and the horns of their altars.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words highlight the dual contexts of this term:
* `{{H6213}}` **ʻâsâh** (pare): This primitive root, meaning to do or make, is used in [[Deuteronomy 21:12]] to describe the action of paring the **nails**.
* `{{H3789}}` **kâthab** (write): A root meaning to grave or inscribe, this word is central to the metaphorical use of `{{H6856}}` as the point of a pen used to **write** Judah's sin [[Jeremiah 17:1]].
* `{{H3820}}` **lêb** (heart): Representing the feelings, will, and intellect, the **heart** is the surface upon which sin is engraved by the **point** `{{H6856}}` in [[Jeremiah 17:1]].
* `{{H8068}}` **shâmîyr** (diamond): This word for a gem, likely a diamond, describes the material of the **point** `{{H6856}}`, emphasizing the hardness and permanence of the inscription [[Jeremiah 17:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6856}}` is found in its contrasting applications.
* **Rite of Transition:** The act of paring the **nails** `{{H6856}}` is part of a physical process of separation and preparation for a woman entering a new life and household [[Deuteronomy 21:12]].
* **Indelible Record of Sin:** Used as the **point** of a pen, `{{H6856}}` serves to create a permanent record of Judah's sin{H2403}, graven{H2790} upon their heart{H3820} with a diamond{H8068} tip, making it unerasable [[Jeremiah 17:1]].
* **External Act vs. Internal State:** The two uses of the word contrast an outward, physical act of personal grooming with an internal, spiritual reality. One involves an extremity of the body, while the other marks the very core of a person's being—the heart—with transgression.
### Summary
In summary, **tsippôren** `{{H6856}}` is a word with a sharp dual meaning. It can be the literal **nail** on a person's hand, subject to being pared and changed as part of a physical ritual. It can also be the figurative **point** of an instrument of judgment, used to permanently inscribe rebellion onto the heart of a nation. Through its two appearances, it illustrates the difference between an external act of preparation and an internal state of corruption.
TRV