### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shaʻaṭnêz**, represented by `{{H8162}}`, refers to a specific type of fabric known as linsey-woolsey, a cloth made of linen and wool that have been carded and spun together. Described as a "garment of divers sorts, linen and wollen," this term is of probable foreign derivation. It appears only **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in scripture, making it a highly specific legal term.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two appearances of `{{H8162}}` are found exclusively in the legal codes of the Torah. In [[Leviticus 19:19]], the prohibition against a garment of linen and wool coming upon a person is listed among other divine **statutes** `{{H2708}}` that must be kept. This context places the law alongside other commands against mixing kinds, such as letting **cattle** `{{H929}}` gender with a diverse kind `{{H3610}}` or sowing a field with mingled seed. [[Deuteronomy 22:11]] provides a more direct and focused command: "Thou shalt not **wear** `{{H3847}}` a garment of divers sorts `{{H8162}}`, as of **woollen** `{{H6785}}` and **linen** `{{H6593}}` **together** `{{H3162}}`."
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the nature and context of this prohibition:
* `{{H3610}}` **kilʼayim** (mingled): This word, meaning "two heterogeneities," is central to the prohibition. It is used in [[Leviticus 19:19]] to forbid not only the mingled **garment** `{{H899}}` but also the mixing of cattle and seeds, establishing a broader principle of separation.
* `{{H6785}}` **tsemer** (wool): This term refers to **wool** or woollen fabric. It is one of the two materials explicitly forbidden from being combined in a garment [[Deuteronomy 22:11]]. In other contexts, it is a valuable material sought by the virtuous woman [[Proverbs 31:13]].
* `{{H6593}}` **pishteh** (linen): This word for **linen** or flax is the second material mentioned in the prohibition [[Deuteronomy 22:11]]. Like wool, it was a common and useful fiber, sought for making textiles [[Proverbs 31:13]]. The law does not forbid the materials themselves, but their mixture in a single garment.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8162}}` is found in its representation of a broader divine principle.
* **Statutory Obedience:** The command is presented as one of God's **statutes** `{{H2708}}` which the people are instructed to **keep** `{{H8104}}` [[Leviticus 19:19]]. Adherence to this rule was a direct act of obedience to a divine ordinance.
* **Principle of Separation:** The law against **shaʻaṭnêz** is part of a larger legal theme prohibiting certain mixtures, or **kilʼayim** `{{H3610}}`. This points to a value placed on maintaining the distinct kinds and categories established in creation.
* **Avoiding Defilement:** The related prohibition against sowing a vineyard with **divers seeds** `{{H3610}}` carries a warning that the resulting fruit might be "defiled" [[Deuteronomy 22:9]]. This suggests that the command against wearing `{{H8162}}` is tied to concepts of holiness and avoiding what is ritually improper.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8162}}` is a precise term for a garment woven from both linen and wool. While appearing only twice, its prohibition in Leviticus and Deuteronomy is significant. It serves as a specific application of the broader legal principle against mixing different kinds, or **kilʼayim** `{{H3610}}`. Ultimately, the command against wearing **shaʻaṭnêz** is an expression of the call for God's people to observe His statutes and live according to the distinctions He has ordained.
TRV