### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **bᵉdôlach**, represented by `{{H916}}`, refers to a substance known as **bdellium**. It appears 2 times in 2 unique verses. The term is defined as "something in pieces," believed to be a fragrant gum, amber, or possibly a pearl, and is consistently presented as a valuable material.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, `{{H916}}` is used to denote both a natural resource and a visual descriptor. It is first mentioned in Genesis as a precious commodity found in a **land** `{{H776}}` where the **gold** `{{H2091}}` is **good** `{{H2896}}`, listed alongside the **onyx** `{{H7718}}` **stone** `{{H68}}` [[Genesis 2:12]]. Later, its appearance is used to describe the **colour** `{{H5869}}` of **manna** `{{H4478}}`, the food God provided for the Israelites in the wilderness [[Numbers 11:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and value of **bdellium**:
* `{{H2091}}` **zâhâb** (gold): This word, meaning to shimmer, is listed directly with **bdellium** as a precious material in the created world [[Genesis 2:12]]. It is a consistent symbol of wealth and blessing throughout scripture [[Genesis 24:35]].
* `{{H4478}}` **mân** (manna): Literally meaning a "whatness," this is the miraculous bread from heaven whose **colour** `{{H5869}}` is compared to **bdellium** [[Numbers 11:7]]. It is remembered as God's direct provision for His people [[Exodus 16:15]].
* `{{H7718}}` **shôham** (onyx): A gem mentioned with **bdellium** as a valuable resource from the earliest chapters of the Bible [[Genesis 2:12]]. Its value is further established by its use in the sacred priestly garments [[Exodus 28:9]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H916}}` is derived entirely from its associations with value and divine provision.
* **A Component of Creation's Wealth:** Found alongside **gold** `{{H2091}}` and **onyx** `{{H7718}}` **stone** `{{H68}}` in a **land** `{{H776}}` described as **good** `{{H2896}}`, **bdellium** is part of the initial richness of God's creation [[Genesis 2:12]].
* **A Standard for Miraculous Provision:** The use of **bdellium** to describe the appearance of **manna** `{{H4478}}` connects a valuable earthly substance to the appearance of God's supernatural food for Israel [[Numbers 11:7]], highlighting the quality of His provision.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H916}}` is a rare biblical term for a precious material. Though its exact identity is uncertain, its context is clear. It is presented as a valuable commodity of the created earth and serves as the visual standard for the God-given **manna**. Whether as a natural resource or a descriptive simile, **bdellium** consistently signifies value and quality within the biblical text.
TRV