The Hebrew term ʼăshur, represented by H839, refers to the Ashurite people. The term, which is a contracted form, can also denote the cedar tree or some other light elastic wood. It is a very specific word, appearing only 1 time across 1 unique verse in the scriptures.
The sole use of H839 is found in a detailed description within the prophecy of Ezekiel. In this passage, the "company of the Ashurites" are credited as craftsmen who "have made" H6213 ornate ship benches H7175. These benches were constructed from ivory H8127 that was sourced from the "isles of Chittim" (H339, H3794). This mention is part of a larger inventory of luxurious materials, including oars H4880 made from the strong oaks H437 of Bashan H1316 Ezekiel 27:6.
Several related words help illuminate the context of commerce and craftsmanship in which H839 appears:
- H7175 qeresh: This word means a slab or plank; by implication, a deck of aship; bench, board. It is the very object the Ashurites are said to have made Ezekiel 27:6 and is also used to describe the structural boards of the tabernacle Exodus 26:15.
- H8127 shên: Meaning a tooth and specifically ivory, this word points to the precious material used for the benches. Beyond its use for luxury goods, it is used more broadly to refer to teeth, as when God breaks the teeth of the ungodly Psalms 3:7.
- H3794 Kittîy: This name refers to a Kittite or Cypriote and by extension to islanders from places like Chittim or Kittim. It identifies the origin of the ivory, highlighting the international scope of the trade described Ezekiel 27:6 and is also associated with ships arriving from that coast Numbers 24:24.
The significance of H839 is tied directly to the themes of its surrounding passage in Ezekiel.
- International Commerce: The mention of Ashurites H839, ivory H8127 from the isles of Chittim H3794, and oaks H437 from Bashan H1316 within a single verse illustrates a world connected by extensive trade routes for luxury goods Ezekiel 27:6.
- Specialized Craftsmanship: The passage credits the Ashurites with a specific skill: making H6213 benches H7175 from ivory. This highlights the human artistry and labor that contributed to the opulence being described Ezekiel 27:6.
- Materials of Worldly Splendor: The use of H839 is embedded in a list of high-value materials. This deliberate detailing of fine wood and ivory serves to build a picture of immense wealth and material grandeur Ezekiel 27:6.
In summary, ʼăshur H839 is a highly specific term whose single biblical appearance provides a key detail in a larger narrative. Referring to the Ashurites, it identifies them as skilled craftsmen contributing to the splendor of Tyre's commercial fleet. Its context in Ezekiel 27:6, surrounded by references to valuable materials like ivory H8127 and strong oaks H437, firmly places it within a theme of worldly wealth and international trade. While rare, the word offers a vivid snapshot of the specialized labor that supported the ancient world's grand economies.
TRV