### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tsiqlôn**, represented by `{{H6861}}`, refers to a **sack** or **husk**. Based on a root meaning to wind, it implies a container tied at the mouth. It is an extremely rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire biblical text.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{H6861}}` occurs in the narrative of a man providing for the prophet Elisha. In [[2 Kings 4:42]], a man `{{H376}}` from Baalshalisha brings the man of God `{{H430}}` a gift of firstfruits `{{H1061}}`. This gift includes twenty `{{H6242}}` barley `{{H8184}}` loaves `{{H3899}}` and, notably, "full ears of corn in the **husk** thereof." The **husk** or sack is the vessel carrying part of this generous provision, which Elisha then instructs to be given to the people `{{H5971}}` to eat `{{H398}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of this verse connects `{{H6861}}` to several words related to provision, offerings, and agriculture:
* `{{H1061}}` **bikkûwr** (firstfruits): This identifies the offering as the first-fruits of the crop. Such offerings were to be brought to the house of God `{{H430}}`, as specified in the law [[Exodus 23:19]].
* `{{H3759}}` **karmel** (full ears of corn): This describes the contents of the **husk** `{{H6861}}`. The word signifies garden produce or a fruitful field, often associated with a plentiful and abundant land [[Jeremiah 2:7]].
* `{{H3899}}` **lechem** (bread): The barley loaves offered alongside the husk are a form of **bread**, a general term for food. It is a symbol of God's provision, with scripture noting that man does not live by **bread** alone [[Deuteronomy 8:3]].
* `{{H8184}}` **sᵉʻôrâh** (barley): This specifies the type of grain used for the twenty loaves. **Barley** was a staple crop, and its harvest was a key event in the agricultural calendar [[2 Samuel 21:9]].
### Theological Significance
Though mentioned only once, the theological context for `{{H6861}}` is significant due to the event it is part of.
* **Vessel of a Faithful Gift:** The **husk** `{{H6861}}` serves as the physical container for an offering of firstfruits. It demonstrates a tangible act of obedience and generosity from a man `{{H376}}` toward God's prophet.
* **Initiating Divine Provision:** The contents of this **husk**, along with the bread `{{H3899}}`, become the catalyst for a miracle. The offering brought in the **husk** is what Elisha commands to be given `{{H5414}}` to the people, leading to a supernatural feeding.
* **A Picture of Firstfruits:** Its singular use directly ties it to the principle of firstfruits `{{H1061}}`, where the first and best of the harvest is dedicated to God `{{H430}}`, acknowledging Him as the source of all provision.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6861}}` is a specialized term whose meaning as a **husk** or **sack** is entirely derived from its sole appearance in [[2 Kings 4:42]]. It plays a small but crucial role in the narrative as the container for a gift of fresh grain. This positions the word within a powerful story of human generosity being multiplied by divine power, illustrating the biblical theme of God providing for His people through faithful offerings.
TRV