The Hebrew word bôṭen, represented by H992, refers to a pistachio-nut. The base definition indicates it is used only in the plural and is named for its form. It is a rare term, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible.
The single occurrence of H992 is found in Genesis 43:11. In this passage, Israel instructs his sons on what to bring as a gift to the powerful ruler in Egypt to gain his favor. He tells them to take some of the best fruits H2173 of the land in their vessels as a present. Among the items listed are "a little balm, and a little honey, spices, and myrrh, nuts H992, and almonds."
The context of H992 places it alongside other valuable products of the land, which were part of the gift to the ruler in Egypt:
- H2173 zimrâh (best fruit): This term serves as a heading for the items in the gift, identifying them as choice products of the land Genesis 43:11.
- H1706 dᵉbash (honey): Listed in the gift in Genesis 43:11, honey is also famously used to describe the abundance of the promised land Exodus 3:8.
- H3910 lôṭ (myrrh): This aromatic gum was included in the present Genesis 43:11 and is also mentioned as a commodity being transported to Egypt by Ishmaelite traders Genesis 37:25.
- H5219 nᵉkôʼth (spices): An aromatic gum included in Israel's gift Genesis 43:11, spices are also listed as cargo being carried to Egypt for trade Genesis 37:25.
- H8247 shâqêd (almonds): Paired directly with nuts in the list of gifts Genesis 43:11, almonds are also seen as a symbol of life and divine confirmation, as when Aaron's rod yielded almonds Numbers 17:8.
While extremely rare, the use of H992 carries significance derived from its specific context:
- A Precious Offering: The nuts are part of a carefully selected present H4503 intended to appease a powerful figure. Their inclusion alongside spices, myrrh, and honey shows they were considered a valuable commodity suitable for a diplomatic gift.
- Fruit of the Land: The items are explicitly called the best fruits H2173 of the land. This demonstrates that even during a time of famine, the land of Canaan could produce items of high value, showcasing its worth.
- Sincerity and Reconciliation: The gift, containing H992, was assembled by Israel as an act of goodwill to ensure the safety of his sons. The value of the items reflects the gravity of the situation and the father's desire for reconciliation and provision.
In summary, bôṭen H992 is a specific term for nut that, despite its single use, plays a distinct role in the biblical narrative. Its sole appearance in Genesis 43:11 situates it as one of the "best fruits" of Canaan, a valuable item used in a critical gift of appeasement. The significance of H992 is not in its frequency, but in its contribution to a powerful story of family, famine, and the effort to secure favor through a presentation of the land's finest products.
TRV