### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼâthôwn**, represented by `{{H860}}`, refers to a **female donkey** or **(she) ass**. Its definition suggests a connection to patience and docility. This term appears **34 times** across **28 unique verses**, playing a notable role in narratives of wealth, travel, and prophecy.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H860}}` is frequently listed as a measure of wealth and substance. For example, Job's possessions at his beginning included five hundred **she asses** [[Job 1:3]], and after his restoration, he was blessed with a thousand **she asses** [[Job 42:12]]. Similarly, Abram received **she asses** as part of his prosperity [[Genesis 12:16]]. The word is central to the story of Balaam, whose **ass** saw the angel of the LORD and was miraculously given the ability to speak ([[Numbers 22:23]], [[Numbers 22:28]]). It also features in the account of Saul, who was sent by his father to seek their lost **asses** [[1 Samuel 9:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to contextualize the meaning and use of `{{H860}}`:
* `{{H2543}}` **chămôwr**: This term for a **male ass** is the direct counterpart to `{{H860}}`. It is used alongside it in the prophecy of the coming king who rides "upon an **ass** `{{H2543}}`, and upon a colt the foal of an **ass** `{{H860}}`" [[Zechariah 9:9]].
* `{{H5895}}` **ʻayir**: This word for a **young ass** or **colt** is often linked with `{{H860}}`. Jacob's blessing speaks of binding "his **ass's** `{{H860}}` **colt** `{{H1121}}`" [[Genesis 49:11]], and the Zechariah prophecy also connects a **colt** `{{H5895}}` to its mother, an **ass** `{{H860}}`.
* `{{H7392}}` **râkab**: This verb, meaning to **ride**, is frequently used with `{{H860}}`. Balaam was **riding** upon his **ass** when the divine encounter occurred [[Numbers 22:22]], and the Shunammite woman commanded her servant about her **riding** [[2 Kings 4:24]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{H860}}` carries significant thematic weight in scripture, highlighting its importance beyond a simple beast of burden.
* **A Measure of Blessing and Status:** The presence of **she asses** in lists of property for figures like Abram and Job establishes them as a key indicator of wealth and God's blessing ([[Genesis 12:16]], [[Job 42:12]]). People of high station are identified as those who **ride** on **asses** [[Judges 5:10]].
* **An Instrument of Divine Intervention:** In the narrative of Balaam, the **ass** `{{H860}}` becomes a vehicle for God's message. It perceives the angel that the prophet cannot and is given a voice by the LORD, directly challenging its master and revealing God's will ([[Numbers 22:28]], [[Numbers 22:32]]).
* **Symbol of Humble Kingship:** The prophecy in Zechariah describes the just and lowly King arriving on a colt, the foal of an **ass** `{{H860}}`, which contrasts with the war horses of conquering rulers and symbolizes a reign of peace [[Zechariah 9:9]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H860}}` is a specific and meaningful term for a **female donkey**. While it serves a practical purpose as a mode of transportation and a sign of economic prosperity, it is also elevated in scripture. It features as a central character in divine encounters, as seen with Balaam, and stands as a powerful symbol of the humble and righteous kingship prophesied for Jerusalem.
TRV