The Hebrew word śahărôn, represented by H7720, describes a specific type of jewelry, defined as a round pendant for the neck or an ornament, round tire like the moon. It is a rare term, appearing only 3 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible, where it consistently denotes an item of value and adornment.
In its biblical usage, H7720 is primarily associated with wealth and royalty. When Gideon defeated the Midianites, he took the ornaments that were on their camels' necks as spoils of war Judges 8:21. These items are listed alongside a great weight H4948 of golden earrings, collars, and purple raiment belonging to the kings of Midian, highlighting their value Judges 8:26. In contrast, the prophet Isaiah lists "round tires like the moon" among the finery that the Lord will take away from the daughters of Zion as a sign of judgment, connecting the ornament to worldly pride Isaiah 3:18.
Several related words help contextualize the nature and value of these ornaments:
- H2091 zâhâb (gold): This precious metal is directly associated with the spoils taken alongside the śahărôn in Judges. Its definition is gold, figuratively, something gold-colored (i.e. yellow), as oil, a clear sky; gold(-en), fair weather. It is a primary indicator of wealth and value throughout scripture Genesis 24:35.
- H5141 nezem (earring, jewel): Listed with the H7720 ornaments in the spoils from Midian, this word is defined as a nose-ring; earring, jewel. It is often mentioned as a common form of adornment Genesis 35:4.
- H6060 ʻânâq (chain): The context in Judges mentions that chains were also about the camels' necks, in parallel with the ornaments. It is defined as a necklace (as if strangling); chain, and is used to describe personal adornment Proverbs 1:9.
- H713 ʼargâmân (purple): This color of royalty was found on the raiment of the Midianite kings. It is defined as purple (the color or the dyed stuff) and is frequently associated with high status and sanctuary decorations Exodus 26:1.
The significance of H7720 can be understood through its specific contexts:
- Symbol of Worldly Status: As an adornment for the camels of Midianite kings, the ornament represents significant wealth, power, and status. It is grouped with items like purple H713 raiment and large amounts of gold H2091, marking it as an object of luxury Judges 8:26.
- Spoils of War: The act of Gideon taking these ornaments signifies the transfer of power and wealth from the defeated to the victor. They serve as a tangible symbol of Israel's triumph over its oppressors Judges 8:21.
- Object of Divine Judgment: In Isaiah's prophecy, the "round tires like the moon" are part of a list of fineries that will be stripped away by the Lord. This reframes the ornament as a symbol of vanity and pride that invites divine retribution Isaiah 3:18.
In summary, H7720 is a specific and potent symbol within the biblical text. While a simple ornament, its appearances link it directly to the themes of royal wealth, the spoils of righteous victory, and the dangers of worldly pride. Its association with Midianite kings marks it as an emblem of earthly power, while its inclusion in Isaiah's list of judgments serves as a reminder that such outward adornments are fleeting and subject to God's authority.
TRV