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.
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."
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.
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.
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