from קוּר; (only plural) trenches, i.e. a web (as if so formed); web.
Transliteration:qûwr
Pronunciation:koor
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H6980}}` (קוּר, *qûwr*) derives from a root that can signify "to bore" or "to dig," leading to the primary sense of "trenches." However, the specific usage of `{{H6980}}` in the biblical text, always in the plural, immediately shifts its semantic range to "a web," particularly a spider's web. The connection between "trenches" and "web" lies in the visual imagery of intricately formed lines or depressions, akin to the spun threads of a web. Thus, `{{H6980}}` denotes a delicate, interwoven structure, often associated with fragility, futility, or a lack of substance, as if constructed from numerous fine, insubstantial lines.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{H6980}}` appears exclusively in the book of Isaiah, specifically in two consecutive verses, [[Isaiah 59:5]] and [[Isaiah 59:6]]. These occurrences are central to understanding its metaphorical application in biblical theology.
In [[Isaiah 59:5]], the prophet declares, "They hatch viper's eggs and weave the spider's web; he who eats of their eggs dies, and from what is crushed a viper breaks out." Here, `{{H6980}}` appears in the construct phrase "קורי עכביש" (*qûrey ‘akkābîš*), explicitly meaning "spider's webs." The context is a scathing indictment of the people's sinful deeds and their inability to achieve righteousness. Their works are likened to the hatching of poisonous eggs and the weaving of a spider's web. The web, in this analogy, represents their schemes and efforts, which, despite their intricate design, are ultimately useless and even deadly.
This imagery is extended in [[Isaiah 59:6]]: "Their webs will not serve as clothing; they will not cover themselves with what they make. Their deeds are deeds of iniquity, and acts of violence are in their hands." The futility of the "webs" is emphasized: they cannot provide covering or protection. Just as a spider's web is too flimsy to clothe or shield, so too are the works of the wicked incapable of providing true righteousness, salvation, or security. The passage contrasts the elaborate but ultimately useless efforts of humanity with the righteous and salvific work of God.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is `{{H5908}}` (עכביש, *‘akkābîš*), "spider," which directly qualifies `{{H6980}}` in [[Isaiah 59:5]], forming the common idiom "spider's web." This reinforces the connotations of fragility and inadequacy.
Concepts closely associated with `{{H6980}}` include:
* **Futility and Vanity:** The web's inability to serve as clothing highlights the emptiness of human efforts apart from God. This resonates with the themes found in Ecclesiastes regarding the "vanity" (`{{H1892}}`) of human striving.
* **Deception and Snares:** While not explicitly a snare, a web is a trap for insects. The intricate nature of the "web" can subtly suggest human schemes that ensnare or deceive, though ultimately proving useless to the weaver. Related terms might include `{{H7503}}` (רשת, *resheth*, "net" or "snare") or `{{H4686}}` (מצודה, *metsudah*, "net" or "stronghold").
* **Human Works vs. Divine Righteousness:** The metaphor of the web serves as a stark contrast to the "garments of salvation" and "robe of righteousness" that God provides ([[Isaiah 61:10]]). Human attempts at self-justification are flimsy and insufficient, unlike God's perfect provision.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H6980}}` is profound, primarily conveyed through its metaphorical use in Isaiah. It serves as a powerful symbol for the inadequacy and futility of human works, particularly those born out of wickedness or self-righteousness, in the sight of God.
1. **Rejection of Self-Righteousness:** The "spider's web" represents all human attempts to establish righteousness or security apart from God's grace. Just as one cannot be clothed or protected by a flimsy web, so human deeds, no matter how intricately devised or seemingly impressive, cannot provide true spiritual covering or salvation. This directly challenges any notion of merit-based salvation.
2. **The Nature of Sinful Deeds:** The passage links the weaving of the web with hatching viper's eggs, emphasizing that the "works" of the wicked are not merely ineffective but inherently destructive and poisonous. They lead to death and violence, reflecting the corrupt nature of the heart from which they spring.
3. **God's Exclusive Provision of Salvation:** By highlighting the utter insufficiency of human efforts, the metaphor implicitly underscores the necessity and exclusivity of God's divine provision for salvation. Only God can provide the true "garments of righteousness" that cover sin and grant access to Him. The web of human works is a stark contrast to the perfect, divinely woven tapestry of redemption.
### Summary
The Hebrew term `{{H6980}}` (קוּר, *qûwr*), meaning "web," particularly a "spider's web," is a rare but highly significant word in the biblical lexicon. Appearing only twice in [[Isaiah 59:5]] and [[Isaiah 59:6]], it serves as a potent metaphor for the futility and inadequacy of human works and self-righteousness. Just as a spider's web is intricately spun yet utterly incapable of providing clothing or protection, so too are the schemes and deeds of humanity insufficient to cover sin or secure salvation. The theological message is clear: human efforts, apart from God's grace, are flimsy, vain, and ultimately lead to destruction, underscoring the absolute necessity of divine provision for true righteousness and redemption.
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