The Hebrew word ʼereg, represented by H708, refers to a weaving, braid, beam, or weaver's shuttle. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. Its definition, derived from a root meaning to weave, points to the components of a loom and the objects associated with that craft.
In its biblical usage, H708 serves both a metaphorical and a literal purpose. In the book of Job, it is used figuratively as a "weaver's shuttle" to convey the swift and fleeting nature of human life, as Job laments that his days pass quickly and are spent without hope Job 7:6. In contrast, its appearance in the book of Judges is literal, describing a part of a loom. When Samson is bound by Delilah, he breaks free, taking with him the pin and the "beam" H708 of the loom Judges 16:14.
Several related words provide context for the craft and actions associated with H708:
- H3489 yâthêd (a peg; nail, paddle, pin, stake): This word appears directly with H708 in the Samson narrative, where the "pin" is what fastens the loom's beam before Samson pulls it free Judges 16:14. It is also used to describe stakes for a tent Isaiah 33:20.
- H4545 maççeketh (web): This term for the woven fabric itself is used alongside H708 in the account of Samson, who tears away both the beam and the "web" when he breaks loose Judges 16:14.
- H8628 tâqaʻ (to clatter, i.e. slap (the hands together), clang (an instrument); by analogy, to drive (a nail or tent-pin, a dart, etc.); by implication, to become bondsman by handclasping); blow (a trumpet), cast, clap, fasten, pitch (tent), smite, sound, strike, [idiom] suretiship, thrust): This verb describes the action Delilah took to secure the loom, as she "fastened" the pin Judges 16:14. The same word is often used for blowing a trumpet Joel 2:1.
Despite its infrequent use, H708 carries significant thematic weight in its contexts.
- The Brevity of Life: The primary metaphorical lesson comes from Job's use of the "weaver's shuttle." It serves as a powerful symbol for the rapid, mechanical, and unstoppable passage of time, highlighting the fragility and temporary nature of human existence on earth Job 7:6.
- Human Schemes vs. Divine Strength: In the Samson story, the loom's "beam" is an instrument in a scheme of betrayal and capture. However, Samson's ability to easily tear it away demonstrates that human plans to ensnare God's chosen are ultimately futile against divinely appointed strength Judges 16:14.
In summary, H708 is a specific term from the world of weaving that is used to generate powerful imagery. Though appearing only twice, it effectively illustrates both the profound, universal theme of life's brevity in Job and a literal, narrative detail symbolizing thwarted human efforts in Judges. It shows how a simple, concrete object can be used in scripture to convey both deep sorrow and incredible strength.
TRV