### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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