or תַּמְרֻק; or תַּמְרִיק; from מָרַק; properly, a scouring, i.e. soap or perfumery forthe bath; figuratively, a detergent; [idiom] cleanse, (thing for) purification(-fying).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tamrûwq**, represented by `{{H8562}}`, refers to a **cleansing** or **purification**. The word, derived from a root meaning to scour, appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses**. It is used both in a literal sense for cosmetic preparations and figuratively as a detergent for evil.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H8562}}` is used exclusively in the books of Esther and Proverbs. Its primary context is in Esther, where it describes the "things for purification" given to the young virgins being prepared for King Ahasuerus [[Esther 2:3]]. When Esther pleased the king's chamberlain, she was speedily given her **things for purification** [[Esther 2:9]]. This process was elaborate, involving a period of twelve months with oils and perfumes as part of the "purifying of the women" [[Esther 2:12]]. In contrast, the book of Proverbs uses the term metaphorically, stating that the pain of a wound **cleanseth** away evil, acting as a moral detergent [[Proverbs 20:30]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the concept of purification and preparation:
* `{{H4795}}` **mârûwq** (purification): A closely related term meaning "a rubbing (with perfumery); purification." It is used alongside `{{H8562}}` to describe the full beautification regimen in the book of Esther [[Esther 2:12]].
* `{{H8081}}` **shemen** (oil): Meaning "grease, especially liquid... often perfumed," this was a key ingredient in the purifications. The virgins in Esther's time were treated for six months with **oil** of myrrh [[Esther 2:12]], and anointing with **oil** is also associated with joy and honor [[Psalms 23:5]].
* `{{H1314}}` **besem** (sweet odours): Defined as "fragrance; by implication, spicery," this word describes the perfumes used in the second phase of the purification process [[Esther 2:12]]. These **spices** were considered valuable and were often part of royal treasures [[Isaiah 39:2]].
* `{{H2896}}` **ṭôwb** (good): This word for **good** or "best" connects the result of purification with a desirable state. Esther was moved to the **best** place in the house of the women after receiving her purifications [[Esther 2:9]], and the term is used more broadly to describe what the Lord provides to those who walk uprightly [[Psalms 84:11]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H8562}}` is seen in its distinct applications:
* **Physical Preparation for Royalty:** In Esther, `{{H8562}}` is central to the physical and cosmetic preparation required to appear before a king. The process involved specific items like **oil** `{{H8081}}` of myrrh and **sweet odours** `{{H1314}}` over a period of twelve months, highlighting the meticulousness of the preparation [[Esther 2:12]].
* **A Means to Gain Favor:** The "things for purification" were given to Esther speedily because she "pleased" `{{H3190}}` the king's chamberlain and obtained kindness. This act led to her being "preferred" `{{H8138}}` to the "best" `{{H2896}}` place, suggesting purification is linked to achieving a state of favor and elevation [[Esther 2:9]].
* **Metaphor for Moral Cleansing:** The book of Proverbs uses `{{H8562}}` to illustrate a profound spiritual truth. Just as a physical scouring removes dirt, "the blueness of a wound" is presented as a harsh detergent that can **cleanse** away evil from the "inward parts of the belly" [[Proverbs 20:30]]. This reframes purification from an external act to an internal, corrective process.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8562}}` carries a focused but potent meaning of purification. Its use in scripture moves from the literal, cosmetic preparations in the royal court of Persia to a powerful figurative expression for moral cleansing in wisdom literature. Whether describing the ointments used to beautify a future queen or the difficult experiences that scour evil from the heart, **tamrûwq** consistently points to a process of making something clean and ready.
TRV