The Hebrew word ʼargâz, represented by H712, is a specific term for a box or coffer. It appears only 3 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible. Its base definition suggests it may be a box used as a pannier, possibly suspended. In all its biblical uses, it is directly associated with the Ark of the LORD.
In its biblical context, H712 appears exclusively within the narrative of the Philistines returning the Ark of the LORD. The Philistines are instructed to place the trespass offering, consisting of "jewels of gold," into a coffer 1 Samuel 6:8. This coffer is then placed on the cart "by the side thereof" the ark 1 Samuel 6:8. The contents are specified as golden mice and images of their emerods 1 Samuel 6:11. The final mention occurs when the Levites take down both the Ark of the LORD and the coffer that was with it 1 Samuel 6:15.
Several related words clarify the function and context of H712:
- H727 ʼârôwn (ark, chest, coffin): This is the most significant related term. In every instance, the H712 coffer is mentioned alongside the H727 ark of the LORD, highlighting their physical proximity and shared role in the narrative 1 Samuel 6:11.
- H3627 kᵉlîy (something prepared, i.e. any apparatus): This word describes the contents of the H712 coffer. The Philistines place "jewels H3627 of gold" inside it as a trespass offering (1 Samuel 6:8, 1 Samuel 6:15). The broad definition of kᵉlîy as any apparatus, utensil, or vessel shows its versatility.
- H7760 sûwm (to put): This primitive root describes the action taken with the coffer and its contents. The Philistines are told to put H7760 the jewels of gold in the coffer 1 Samuel 6:8, and the coffer itself was laid H7760 upon the cart with the ark 1 Samuel 6:11.
The theological weight of H712 is tied directly to its singular role in the narrative of the trespass offering.
- Vessel of Atonement: The coffer serves as the dedicated container for the Philistines' trespass offering to the LORD 1 Samuel 6:8. It holds the golden images meant to acknowledge their guilt and appease God's wrath, making it a key instrument in their attempt at restitution.
- Symbolic Separation: The coffer is explicitly placed "by the side" of the Ark of the LORD 1 Samuel 6:8. This placement is significant, as it shows respect for the supreme holiness of the Ark H727 while still associating the offering directly with it. The Philistine offering is near to, but not mixed with, the sacred contents of the Ark itself.
- Acknowledgement of Guilt: The contents of the coffer, the golden mice and emerods, are direct representations of the plagues sent upon the Philistines. By placing these items in the coffer, they are creating a tangible admission of their transgression and the resulting divine judgment.
In summary, H712 ʼargâz is a highly specific term for a coffer or box. Though appearing only three times, its role is pivotal in the account of 1 Samuel 6. It functions as the container for a trespass offering, physically separating the Philistine tribute from the sacred Ark of the LORD while accompanying it on its journey. The word ʼargâz illustrates how a unique object can be introduced into the biblical narrative to serve a precise theological purpose, in this case, facilitating an act of national repentance and restitution.
TRV