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Isaiah 28:27 — Word Study

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WLCכִּ֣י לֹ֤א בֶֽחָרוּץ֙ י֣וּדַשׁ קֶ֔צַח וְאוֹפַ֣ן עֲגָלָ֔ה עַל־ כַּמֹּ֖ן יוּסָּ֑ב כִּ֧י בַמַּטֶּ֛ה יֵחָ֥בֶט קֶ֖צַח וְכַמֹּ֥ן בַּשָּֽׁבֶט׃

BSASurelykîy carawayqetsach [dill or fennelflower] is notlôʼ thresheddûwsh with a sledgechărûwts [a heavy tool] and the wheelʼôwphân of a cartʻăgâlâh [a wheeled vehicle] is not rolledçâbab overʻal the cuminkammôn [a seed used as a condiment] Butkîy carawayqetsach is beaten outchâbaṭ with a stickmaṭṭeh [a staff] and cuminkammôn with a rodshêbeṭ [a tool for punishment or guidance]

Word
Listen & take awayIsaiah 28
English ↓ Download MP3 The Berean Standard Bible chapter audio already hosted for the site's Bible section — verse 27 is in this chapter.
Hebrew ↓ Download MP3 The Masoretic text of this chapter, read aloud. Read by Abraham Shmuelof, courtesy of Audio Scriptures International. Chapter divisions by the Academy of Ancient Languages..
Say the word Each Hebrew word carries its transliteration (ba.Sha.vet) — no per-word recordings of the Hebrew exist to link to.
Take it away
Isaiah 28:27quick helps
In a sentenceIsaiah uses agricultural imagery to illustrate appropriate methods for processing different seeds.
What is being comparedThe verse contrasts the methods used for caraway and cumin, emphasizing their unique handling.
Where we areThis verse is part of a discourse on God's instruction and wisdom in the use of resources.
The hard wordבֶֽחָרוּץ
Take awayThe text teaches that different things require different approaches.
8 commentators on this verse Gill, Jamieson, Poole, Trapp & more — read them › clause subjectקֶצַח verbדּוּשׁ The sentence as the grammar sees it Open the tree ›
How rare are these words?in the Old Testament

Every word here is used elsewhere in the Old Testament.

Bars are logarithmic — אֵת, the commonest word in the Hebrew Bible, stands about 11,000 times, so a linear scale would leave everything else invisible. Click a row to open that word.

Deep Study — Isaiah 28:27

Sections marked generated are written from the data on this page rather than by a named author. Everything else — the lexicon entries, the cross references, the manuscript readings, the counts — is quoted from its source unchanged.

Context — God's Instruction on Proper Methodsgenerated

26For his God instructs and teaches him properly.
27Surely caraway is not threshed with a sledge, and the wheel of a cart is not rolled over the cumin. But caraway is beaten out with a stick, and cumin with a rod.
28Grain for bread must be ground, but it is not endlessly threshed. Though the wheels of the cart roll over it, the horses do not crush it.
29This also comes from the LORD of Hosts, who is wonderful in counsel and excellent in wisdom.

Isaiah 28:27 illustrates the wisdom of God in teaching how to handle various seeds appropriately. The verse emphasizes that caraway and cumin, though both seeds, require different methods of processing, reflecting God's guidance in all aspects of life. This context aligns with the broader theme of Isaiah, where God instructs His people on living wisely and effectively, akin to the advice given in Proverbs 3:5-6 about trusting in the Lord for direction.


Cross References

ReferenceText (BSB)
1Isaiah 41:15Behold, I will make you into a threshing sledge, new and sharp, with many teeth. You will thresh the mountains and crush them, and reduce the hills to chaff.
22 Kings 13:7Jehoahaz had no army left, except fifty horsemen, ten chariots, and ten thousand foot soldiers, because the king of Aram had destroyed them and made them like the dust at threshing.
3Amos 1:3This is what the LORD says: “For three transgressions of Damascus, even four, I will not revoke My judgment, because they threshed Gilead with sledges of iron.
4Isaiah 27:7–8Has the LORD struck Israel as He struck her oppressors? Was she killed like those who slayed her?
5Jeremiah 10:24Correct me, O LORD, but only with justice— not in Your anger, or You will bring me to nothing.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge — 6 references, hung on the phrase they belong to


The Key Word בֶֽחָרוּץ, be.charutzgenerated

The Hebrew word חָרוּץ (charutz) means 'sharp' or 'threshing sledge.' It is derived from a root that conveys the idea of being incisive or diligent. In this verse, it describes a tool used for threshing grain, indicating a heavy and sharp implement.

This word's use in the verse highlights the contrast between inappropriate and appropriate methods of handling different seeds. The sharpness of the tool emphasizes the care needed in processing caraway, contrasting with the gentler methods used for cumin.


How Translations Differ — measured against the Berean Standard Biblegenerated

This study reads the verse in the Berean Standard Bible, so the BSB is the wording every comparison below is made against.


Sentence Structuregenerated

The finite verb י֣וּדַשׁ (yu.dash), meaning 'it is threshed,' governs the first part of the verse, while יוּסָּ֑ב (yu.sav), meaning 'it is turned,' governs the second part. The structure emphasizes the contrast between the two methods of handling the seeds.

The verse is structured to show the relationship between the actions and the subjects, with clauses detailing the specific seeds and their respective processing methods.


Septuagint Backgroundgenerated

The Septuagint translates בֶֽחָרוּץ as σκληρότητος, indicating a focus on the hardness or sharpness of the tool. This choice emphasizes the severity and appropriateness of the method for caraway.

This translation choice narrows the focus on the tool's nature, suggesting a more intense method for processing caraway compared to cumin.


In plain words — the whole versegenerated

Isaiah 28:27 explains that different seeds require different methods of processing. Caraway should not be threshed with a heavy tool, while cumin should not be rolled over by a cart. Instead, caraway is beaten out with a stick, and cumin with a rod, illustrating the need for careful handling.


Frequently Asked Questionsgenerated

What does the verse teach about processing seeds?

The verse emphasizes that different seeds, like caraway and cumin, require distinct methods of processing to ensure proper handling.

Why is the method of processing important?

The method of processing is important because it reflects the care and precision needed in handling different agricultural products, which can be applied to broader life principles.

What does the imagery in this verse suggest about God's wisdom?

The imagery suggests that God's wisdom provides guidance on how to approach various tasks in life, ensuring that each is handled appropriately.

How can this verse be applied in daily life?

This verse can be applied in daily life by recognizing that different situations require different approaches, and seeking God's guidance in making those distinctions.


Reflection Questionsgenerated

  1. What are some examples of how I can apply different methods to various tasks in my life?
  2. How do I discern the right approach for different situations I face?
  3. In what ways can I seek God's guidance for wisdom in handling my responsibilities?
  4. How does understanding this verse change my perspective on the care needed in my daily tasks?

Commentators on this verse — 8 expositors, verse by verse

Each of these wrote on Isaiah 28:27 itself, not merely on the chapter around it.

John Gill1697–1771Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

For the fitches are not threshed with a threshing instrument,.... A wooden sledge, dray, or cart, drawn on wheels; the bottom of which was stuck with iron teeth, and the top filled with stones, to

Read John Gill on Isaiah 28 →
Robert Jamieson1802–1880Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown's Commentary

For the fitches are not threshed with a threshing instrument, neither is a cart wheel turned about upon the cummin; but the fitches are beaten out with a staff, and the cummin with a rod.

Read Robert Jamieson on Isaiah 28 →
Matthew Poole1624–1679Matthew Poole's Commentary on the Holy Bible

A threshing instrument; which then and there was made like a sled shod with iron, which was drawn by men or beasts over the sheafs of corn, to bruise them, and beat the grain out of them. A cart wheel; a lesser and lower wheel than a cart wheel, but of the same form, upon which possibly the threshing instrument was drawn. The fitches are beaten out with a staff, and the cummin with a rod, as being unable to bear harder usage.

Read Matthew Poole on Isaiah 28 →
John Trapp1601–1669Trapp's Complete Commentary on the Old and New Testaments

Isaiah 28:27 For the fitches are not threshed with a threshing instrument, neither is a cart wheel turned about upon the cummin; but the fitches are beaten out with a staff, and the cummin with a rod.Ver. 27. For the fitches are not threshed out, &c.] So are God’ s visitations diversely dispensed. He proportioneth the burden to the back, and the stroke to the strength of him that beareth it, sparing his afflicted as a man spareth his son that serveth him. Thus "Epaphroditus was sick nigh unto death," but not unto death; and why? See Philippians 2:27. Some of the sweet smelling Smyrnians were in prison "ten days," and no more.

Read John Trapp on Isaiah 28 →
Charles John Ellicott1819–1905Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers

(27) For the fitches are not threshed . . .—Better, fennel seed, as before. The eye of the prophet passes from the beginning to the end of the husbandman’s work. He finds there also the varying methods of a like discrimination. A man would be thought mad who threshed his fennel seed and cummin with the same instrument that he uses for his barley and his wheat. It is enough to beat or tap them with the “rod,” or “staff,” which was, in fact, used in each case. Interpreting this parable, we may see in the fennel and the cummin the little ones of the earth, with whom God deals more gently than with the strong. “Tribulation,” as the etymology of the word (tribulum, a threshing instrument) tells…

Read Charles John Ellicott on Isaiah 28 →
AdamClarkeAdam Clarke's Commentary on the Bible

Verse 27. - 28. Four methods of threshing are here mentioned, by different instruments; the flail, the drag, the wain, and the treading of the cattle. The staff or flail was used for the infirmiora semina, says Jerome, the grain that was too tender to be treated in the other methods. The drag consisted of a sort of strong planks, made rough at the bottom, with hard stones or iron; it was drawn by horses or oxen over the corn sheaves spread on the floor, the driver sitting upon it. Kempfer has given a print representing the manner of using this instrument, Amaen. Exot. p. 682, fig. 3. The wain was much like the former; but had wheels with iron teeth, or edges like a saw: Ferrata carpenta…

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CambridgeThe Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges

23–29. A parable derived from husbandry. The motive of its insertion in this place was probably the different treatment meted out to Samaria and to Jerusalem. The precise point of the analogy is somewhat uncertain; but perhaps we may interpret the thought as follows. There are two parts. The first (Isaiah 28:24-26) appears to justify Jehovah’s procedure by the end He has in view. As the farmer does not go on ploughing for ever out of a mere blind passion for ploughing, but ploughs in order to sow; so Jehovah’s work of judgment is to issue in the preparation of a seed-plot, and in due time ploughing will give place (in the case of Judah) to sowing. The second (Isaiah 28:27-29) draws the…

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Albert Barnes1798–1870Barnes' Notes on the Bible

For the fitches are not threshed with a threshing instrument - The word used here (חרוּץ chârûts) denotes properly that which is pointed or sharp, and is joined with מורג môrag in Isaiah 41:15 -

Read Albert Barnes on Isaiah 28 →

The verse in English, compared — 17 translations, and where they part company

Every translation on this page is a decision someone had to make and commit to. Read down a column and you see one translator's judgement; read across a row and you see the range the Greek actually allows. The BSB is the wording the rest of this page is measured against, so it is listed first.

Modern formal

BSBBerean Standard Bible2020

Surely caraway is not threshed with a sledge, and the wheel of a cart is not rolled over the cumin. But caraway is beaten out with a stick, and cumin with a rod.

WEBWorld English Bible2000

For the dill isn’t threshed with a sharp instrument, neither is a cart wheel turned over the cumin; but the dill is beaten out with a stick, and the cumin with a rod.

MSBMajority Standard Bible2022

Surely caraway is not threshed with a sledge, and the wheel of a cart is not rolled over the cumin. But caraway is beaten out with a stick, and cumin with a rod.

NETBNew English Translation2006

Certainly caraway seed is not threshed with a sledge, nor is the wheel of a cart rolled over cumin seed. Certainly caraway seed is beaten with a stick, and cumin seed with a flail.

Tyndale line

KJVKing James Version1611

For the fitches are not threshed with a threshing instrument, neither is a cart wheel turned about upon the cummin; but the fitches are beaten out with a staff, and the cummin with a rod.

ASVAmerican Standard Version1901

For the fitches are not threshed with a sharp threshing instrument, neither is a cart wheel turned about upon the cummin; but the fitches are beaten out with a staff, and the cummin with a rod.

RVARevised Version, American1894

For the fitches are not threshed with a sharp threshing instrument, neither is a cart wheel turned about upon the cummin; but the fitches are beaten out with a staff, and the cummin with a rod.

NWBWebster's Bible1833

For the vetches are not threshed with a threshing instrument, neither is a cart-wheel turned about upon the cummin; but the vetches are beaten out with a staff, and the cummin with a rod.

GNVGeneva Bible1599

For fitches shall not be threshed with a threshing instrument, neither shall a cart wheele be turned about vpon the cummin: but ye fitches are beaten out with a staffe, and cummin with a rod.

Strictly literal

DBYDarby Translation1890

For the dill is not threshed with a threshing instrument, neither is a cart-wheel turned about upon the cummin; but dill is beaten out with a staff, and cummin with a rod.

YLTYoung's Literal Translation1862

For not with a sharp-pointed thing threshed are fitches, And the wheel of a cart on cummin turned round, For with a staff beaten out are fitches, And cummin with a rod.

LSVLiteral Standard Version2020

For fitches are not threshed with a sharp-pointed thing, || And the wheel of a cart turned around on cumin, || For fitches are beaten out with a staff, || And cumin with a rod.

ILTInterlinear Literal Translation2000

Truly not with a threshing instrument is fennel threshed, and a wagon-wheel is not turned about upon cumin; but fennel is beaten out with a staff, and cumin with a stick.

ULBUnlocked Literal Bible2017

Moreover, the caraway seed is not threshed with a sledge, nor is a cartwheel rolled over the cumin; but caraway is beaten with a stick, and cumin with a rod.

From the Latin

DRADouay-Rheims (Challoner)1899

For gith shall not be thrashed with saws, neither shall the cart wheel turn about upon cummin: but gith shall be beaten out with a rod, and cummin with a staff.

Simplified

FBVFree Bible Version2020

You don't use a heavy tool to thresh dill! You don't use the wheel of a cart to thresh cumin! Instead you use a stick to beat out the dill, and a rod to beat out the cumin.

BBEBible in Basic English1949

For the fitches are not crushed with a sharp instrument, and a cart-wheel is not rolled over the cummin; but the grain of the fitches is hammered out with a stick, and of the cummin with a rod.

Counted from the translations carried on this site, not from a survey of every English Bible. A rendering shared by many versions is usually inherited rather than independently arrived at — the Tyndale line in particular runs through most of them.


The sentence as the grammar sees it — from the MACULA Hebrew treebank

This is not our own analysis: it is the scholarly syntax tree for the verse, showing how the clause actually holds together.

כִּ֣י(dm)clauseadverbialלֹ֤אnotprepositional phrase · prepositionalבֶֽwith.(the)noun phrasethreshingחָרוּץ֙sledgeverbי֣וּדַשׁit.is.threshedsubjectקֶ֔צַחblack.cuminוְandclausenoun phrase · subjectאוֹפַ֣ןa.wheelעֲגָלָ֔הof.a.cartprepositional phrase · prepositionalעַלoverכַּמֹּ֖ןcuminverbיוּסָּ֑בit.is.turnedכִּ֧י(dm)clauseclauseprepositional phrase · prepositionalבַwithnoun phrase(the)מַּטֶּ֛הstaffverbיֵחָ֥בֶטit.is.beaten.outsubjectקֶ֖צַחblack.cuminוְandclausesubjectכַמֹּ֥ןcuminprepositional phrase · prepositionalבַּwithnoun phrase(the)שָּֽׁבֶטrod

Boxes are the grammarian's groupings — clause, noun phrase, prepositional phrase.


The four witnesses to this verse — Masoretic, Septuagint, Samaritan, Qumran

The Masoretic Text and the Dead Sea Scrolls agree closely in wording and meaning, with the 1Qisaa scroll preserving 16 words that match the MT. The 4Q64 scroll shows some restoration but aligns with the MT's overall message.

Masoretic TextLeningrad Codex, c. AD 1008 — the text this page is built on

כִּ֣י לֹ֤א בֶֽחָרוּץ֙ י֣וּדַשׁ קֶ֔צַח וְאוֹפַ֣ן עֲגָלָ֔ה עַל־ כַּמֹּ֖ן יוּסָּ֑ב כִּ֧י בַמַּטֶּ֛ה יֵחָ֥בֶט קֶ֖צַח וְכַמֹּ֥ן בַּשָּֽׁבֶט׃

Septuagintthe Greek the translators chose, word by word
לֹ֤אοὐבֶֽחָרוּץ֙σκληρότητοςי֣וּדַשׁκαθαίρεταιקֶ֔צַחμελάνθιονוְאוֹפַ֣ןτροξὸςעֲגָלָ֔הἁμάχηςעַל־ἐπὶכַּמֹּ֖ןκύμινονכִּ֧יἀλλὰבַמַּטֶּ֛הῥάβδῳיֵחָ֥בֶטἐκτινάσσεταιקֶ֖צַחμελάνθιονוְכַמֹּ֥ןκύμινον

13 of the 16 words are matched. This is the word-by-word correspondence, not the Septuagint's own sentence — its word order and its articles are its own.

Dead Sea Scrolls — 1Qisaaa copy a thousand years older than the Leningrad Codex

כי לוא בחרוץ ידש קצח ואפן עגלה על כמן יסוב כי במטה יחבט קצח וכמן בשבט

16 words on the leather.

Dead Sea Scrolls — 4Q64a copy a thousand years older than the Leningrad Codex

[כי] [לא] [בחרוץ] ידוש קצח [ואופן] [עגלה] [על] [כמן] [יוסב] [כי] [במטה] [יחבט] [קצח] [וכמן] [בשבט]

1 word on the leather — 1 partly restored, 14 supplied entire by an editor.

Four traditions, not one. “On the leather” means the letters physically survive on the scroll, as against letters an editor has supplied to fill a hole in it — a restoration is a scholar’s reading, not a reading of the manuscript. Words in [square brackets] are supplied; the notes count them apart from what survives.


The map of this verse — what each word keeps company with

This is a map of two things, both counted rather than judged. Company kept: which words stand within three words of each of these, anywhere in the Hebrew Bible — the thicker the line, the more often the pair meet compared with chance. Built from: the words a word is made out of, taken from its own Strong’s entry. It is not a map of meaning: nothing here claims two words mean the same thing. Click any circle to see the numbers behind it.

Isaiah 28:27כִּיthatthatכִּילֹאnotnotלֹאחָרוּץwith threshwith threshing חָרוּץדּוּשׁit is thresit is threshedדּוּשׁקֶ֫צַחblack cuminblack cuminקֶ֫צַחאוֹפַןand a wheeland a wheel ofאוֹפַןעֲגָלָהa carta cartעֲגָלָהעַלoveroverעַלכַּמֹּןcumincuminכַּמֹּןסָבַבit is turneit is turnedסָבַבכִּיforforכִּימַטֶּהwith staffwith staffמַטֶּהחָבַטit is beateit is beaten ouחָבַטקֶ֫צַחblack cuminblack cuminקֶ֫צַחכַּמֹּןand cuminand cuminכַּמֹּןשֵׁ֫בֶטwith rodwith rodשֵׁ֫בֶטנָטָהto stretchto stretchנָטָהחָרַץto decideto decideחָרַץדֶּ֫שֶׁאgrassgrassדֶּ֫שֶׁאעָגֹלroundroundעָגֹלעַלheightheightעַליָדַעto knowto knowיָדַעכַּמֹּןcummincumminכַּמֹּןקֶ֫צַחdilldillקֶ֫צַחמַטֶּהtribetribeמַטֶּהיָכֹלbe ablebe ableיָכֹלעוֹדstillstillעוֹדטִיטmudmudטִיטרְמִיָּהdeceitdeceitרְמִיָּהגִּלְגָּלwheelwheelגִּלְגָּלאֵ֫צֶלbesidebesideאֵ֫צֶלאֲבִינָדָבAbinadabAbinadabאֲבִינָדָבדּוּשׁto treadto treadדּוּשׁכִּפֶּרto atoneto atoneכִּפֶּר
meets it a little oftener than chancemeets it far oftener than chancebuilt from the same roottwo words of the verse share ita word of this versea related word

Lexicons — every word in Isaiah 28:27

One dossier per word, with every reference work grouped by kind — Hebrew lexicons, morphology, Bible dictionaries, topical chains and the English of the translators themselves. The verse sits at the head of each block with the word under study lit, so you never lose your place. The panel above gives the short answer; this is the long one, and it is the part of the page worth indexing.

Every entry below is the lexicographer's own text. On the Hebrew: Brown-Driver-Briggs entire and its gloss set, Strong's Hebrew Dictionary, and Tyndale House's Translators Brief lexicon. Where a cell says a work has no entry, that work genuinely has none for this word.

that not with threshing sledge it is threshed black cumin and a wheel of a cart over cumin it is turned for with staff it is beaten out black cumin and cumin with rod
כִּ֣יki that H3588 Particle
4,483× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
A conjunction used to show cause or connection, as in Genesis 2:23 where Adam says the woman is bone of his bone because she was taken out of him. It is often translated as 'for', 'because', or 'since'.
Tyndale gloss
for
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

כִּי (ki) is a conjunction primarily meaning 'that,' 'for,' or 'when.' It indicates causal relationships and can express conditions like 'if' or 'though.' The word is versatile, appearing in various contexts to convey certainty, exception, or concession. Notably, it can combine with other particles to modify its meaning, such as in the phrase כִּי אם־ (ki im), meaning 'that if.'

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

כִּי conj. that, for, when

that

Of time, when, of the past

elsewhere כִּי has a force approximating to if, though it usu. represents a case as more likely to occur than אִם

when or if, with a concessive force, i.e. though

Because, since

base

כִּי אם־

each part. retaining its independent force, and relating to a different clause:

that if

for if

(About 140 t.) the two particles being closely conjoined, and relating to the same clause—

limiting the prec. clause, except

the if being neglected, and treated as pleonastic, so that the clause is no longer a limitation of the preceding clause but a contradiction of it: but rather, but

after an oath, surely

base

כִּי עַל כֵּן forasmuch as

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H3588a כִּי that, for, when . that

. . Of time, when, of the past

. elsewhere כִּי has a force approximating to if, though it usu. represents a case as more likely to occur than אִם

. when or if, with a concessive force, i.e. though

. Because, since

H3588b כִּי אם־ . each part. retaining its independent force, and relating to a different clause: . that if

. for if

. (About 140 t.) the two particles being closely conjoined, and relating to the same clause— . limiting the prec. clause, except

. the if being neglected, and treated as pleonastic, so that the clause is no longer a limitation of the preceding clause but a contradiction of it: but rather, but

. after an oath, surely

H3588c כִּי עַל כֵּן forasmuch as

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

3588 kiy kee

a primitive particle (the full form of the prepositional

prefix) indicating causal relations of all kinds, antecedent

or consequent; (by implication) very widely used as a relative

conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by

other particles annexed:--and, + (forasmuch, inasmuch,

where-)as, assured(-ly), + but, certainly, doubtless, + else,

even, + except, for, how, (because, in, so, than) that, +

nevertheless, now, rightly, seeing, since, surely, then,

therefore, + (al- )though, + till, truly, + until, when,

whether, while, whom, yea, yet.

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

כִּי (ki) — for.

1) that, for, because, when, as though, as, because that, but, then, certainly, except, surely, since

1a) that

1a1) yea, indeed

1b) when (of time)

1b1) when, if, though (with a concessive force)

1c) because, since (causal connection)

1d) but (after negative)

1e) that if, for if, indeed if, for though, but if

1f) but rather, but

1g) except that

1h) only, nevertheless

1i) surely

1j) that is

1k) but if

1l) for though

1m) forasmuch as, for therefore

כִּי [אם] (ki im) — that if: except.

1) except if

1a) but if

1b) even though

כִּי [עַל כֵּן] (ki [al ken]) — for as that: since.

1) that, for, because, when, as though, as, because that, but, then, certainly, except, surely, since

1a) that

1a1) yea, indeed

1b) when (of time)

1b1) when, if, though (with a concessive force)

1c) because, since (causal connection)

1d) but (after negative)

Read the full entry →
Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
Conj — Particle
HTc
The company it keepswords that stand beside it more often than chance
that not with threshing sledge it is threshed black cumin and a wheel of a cart over cumin it is turned for with staff it is beaten out black cumin and cumin with rod
לֹ֤אlo' not H3808 Particle
5,170× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.
Tyndale gloss
not
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

לֹא (lo') is a Hebrew word meaning 'not' or 'no.' It serves as a simple negation and can imply absence or prohibition. The word can also be used in various contexts, often combined with other particles for emphasis or clarification. Its Aramaic equivalent is לָא (la), which also means 'not.'

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

לֹא or לוֹא adv. not

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H3808 לֹא or לוֹא not

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

3808 lo' lo

or lowi {lo}; or loh (Deut. 3:11) {lo}; a primitive particle;

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often

used with other particles (as follows):--X before, + or else,

ere, + except, ig(-norant), much, less, nay, neither, never,

no((-ne), -r, (-thing)), (X as though...,(can-), for) not (out

of), of nought, otherwise, out of, + surely, + as truly as, +

of a truth, + verily, for want, + whether, without.

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

לֹא (lo) — not.

1) not, no

1a) not (with verb-absolute prohibition)

1b) not (with modifier-negation)

1c) nothing (subst)

1d) without (with particle)

1e) before (of time)

Aramaic equivalent: la (לָא "not" H3809)

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
Part — Particle
HTn
The company it keepswords that stand beside it more often than chance
that not with threshing sledge it is threshed black cumin and a wheel of a cart over cumin it is turned for with staff it is beaten out black cumin and cumin with rod
בֶֽחָרוּץ֙ve.cha.Rutz with threshing sledge H2742 Preposition · noun common masculine singular absolute
19× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
In the Bible, this Hebrew word for gold also means something sharp or dug, like a trench. It appears in poetic passages, describing valuable or precious things. In some cases, it refers to determination or eagerness.
Amplified meaning
a heavy tool
Tyndale gloss
sharp
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

The Hebrew word חָרוּץ (*charuwts*) is derived from a root meaning to incise or be incisive. It encompasses a range of meanings including sharp, diligent, strict decision, trench, and gold, with specific references in the Old Testament such as in Job 4:14 and Daniel 9:25. The lexicons agree on these meanings without significant disagreement.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

חָרוּץ adj. sharp, diligent

base

חָרוּץ n.[m.] strict decision, only Jo 4:14, 14

ref

חָרוּץ n.[m.] trench, moat—only in Dn 9:25

ref

חָרוּץ n.m. gold, poet.

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H2742a חָרוּץ sharp, diligent H2742b חָרוּץ strict decision H2742c חָרוּץ trench, moat H2742d חָרוּץ gold poet.

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

2742 charuwts khaw-roots'

or charuts {khaw-roots'}; passive participle of 2782;

properly, incised or (active) incisive; hence (as noun

masculine or feminine) a trench (as dug), gold (as mined), a

threshing-sledge (having sharp teeth); (figuratively)

determination; also eager:--decision, diligent, (fine) gold,

pointed things, sharp, threshing instrument, wall.

see HEBREW for 02782

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

חָרוּץ (cha.ruts) — sharp.

adj

sharp-pointed, sharp, diligent

חָרוּץ (cha.ruts) — decision.

strict decision, decision

חָרוּץ (cha.ruts) — trench.

trench, moat, ditch

חָרוּץ (cha.ruts) — gold.

gold (poetical)

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
Prep | Adj — Preposition · noun common masculine singular absolute
HRd/Ncmsa
that not with threshing sledge it is threshed black cumin and a wheel of a cart over cumin it is turned for with staff it is beaten out black cumin and cumin with rod
י֣וּדַשׁYu.dash it is threshed H1758 Verb · Hophal · imperfect third person masculine singular
16× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
To tread or trample means to walk on something heavily, like threshing grain, and can also mean to overpower or dominate someone. This word is used in Jeremiah 50:11.
Tyndale gloss
to tread
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

דּוּשׁ (duwsh) is a Hebrew verb meaning to tread or thresh. It encompasses actions like trampling and breaking, with forms indicating both active and passive states, such as being trampled or threshed. The word appears in contexts related to agricultural processes, notably in Jeremiah 50:11.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

דּוּשׁ, דִּישׁ vb. tread, thresh

Qal tread on, trample on

Niph. be trampled down

Hoph. be threshed

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H1758 דּוּשׁ, דִּישׁ tread, thresh

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

1758 duwsh doosh

or dowsh {dosh}; or diysh {deesh}; a primitive root; to

trample or thresh:--break, tear, thresh, tread out (down), at

grass (Jer. 50:11, by mistake for 1877).

see HEBREW for 01877

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

דּוּשׁ (dush) — to tread.

1) to tread out, thresh

1a) (Qal) to tread on, trample on, thresh

1b) (Niphal) to be trampled down

1c) (Hophal) to be threshed

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
V-Hophal-Imperf-3ms — Verb · Hophal · imperfect third person masculine singular
HVHi3ms
that not with threshing sledge it is threshed black cumin and a wheel of a cart over cumin it is turned for with staff it is beaten out black cumin and cumin with rod
קֶ֔צַחKe.tzach black cumin H7100 Noun common · masculine singular absolute
3× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
Qetsach refers to a type of herb, specifically dill or fennelflower, known for its strong flavor and aroma. In the KJV, it is translated as 'fitches', a type of plant used as a condiment.
Amplified meaning
dill or fennelflower
Tyndale gloss
dill
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

קֶ֫צַח (qetsach) refers to black cumin, a plant known for its small, acrid seeds used as a condiment. The entries suggest it may also relate to a pungent fennel flower, though the primary focus is on its culinary use.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

קֶ֫צַח n.m. black cumin;—plant with small black acrid seeds, used as condiment

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H7100 קֶ֫צַח black cumin;—plant with small black acrid seeds, used as condiment

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

7100 qetsach keh'-tsakh

from an unused root apparently meaning to incise;

fennelflower (from its pungency):--fitches.

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

קֶ֫צַח (qe.tsach) — dill.

1) black cummin

1a) a plant with small black acrid seeds used as a condiment

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
N-ms — Noun common · masculine singular absolute
HNcmsa
The company it keepswords that stand beside it more often than chance
that not with threshing sledge it is threshed black cumin and a wheel of a cart over cumin it is turned for with staff it is beaten out black cumin and cumin with rod
וְאוֹפַ֣ןve.'o.Fan and a wheel of H212 Conjunction · noun common masculine singular construct
35× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
Refers to a wheel, like a chariot wheel or the wheels in Ezekiel's vision. It is also used to describe the wheels on the bases beneath the lavers in Solomon's temple, as mentioned in the Bible.
Tyndale gloss
wheel
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

אוֹפַן (o.fan) means 'wheel' and is derived from a root meaning to revolve. It specifically refers to wheels in various contexts, including chariot wheels, the wheels in Ezekiel's vision, and those found in Solomon's temple. The entries consistently emphasize its association with circular objects used for movement.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

אוֹפַן, אוֹפָן n.m. wheel

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H212 אוֹפַן, אוֹפָן wheel

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

212 'owphan o-fawn'

or (shortened) pophan {o-fawn'}; from an unused root meaning

to revolve; a wheel:--wheel.

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

אוֹפָן (o.phan) — wheel.

1) wheel

1a) chariot wheel

1b) wheel in Ezekiel's vision

1c) wheels of the ten bases beneath the lavers in Solomon's temple

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
Conj | N-ms — Conjunction · noun common masculine singular construct
HC/Ncmsc
Bible dictionarieson the English sense
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia

ov:

(1) In Anglo-Saxon, had the meaning "from," "away from" (as the strengthened form "off" has still), and was not used for genitive or possessive relations, these being expressed by special case-forms. In the Norman period, however, "of" was taken to represent the French de (a use well developed by the time of Chaucer), and in the Elizabethan period both senses of "of" were in common use. But after about 1600 the later force of the word became predominant, and in the earlier sense (which is now practically obsolete) it was replaced by other prepositions. In consequence the King James Version (and in some cases the Revised Version (British and American)) contains many uses of "of" that are no longer familiar--most of them, to be sure, causing no difficulty, but there still being a few responsible for real obscurities.

English usagewhat the translators’ English meant
Webster's Dictionary (1828), Webster's Unabridged (1913), Webster's Dictionary (1806)

OF, preposition ov. [Gr.]

1. From or out of; proceeding from, as the cause, source, means, author or agent bestowing.

I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered to you. 1 Corinthians 11:1.

For it was of the Lord to harden their hearts. Joshua 11:1.

It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed.

Lamentations 3:1.

The whole disposing thereof is of the Lord. Proverbs 16:1.

Go, inquire of the Lord for me. 2 Chronicles 34:2.

That holy thing that shall be born of thee. Luke 1:1.

Hence of is the sign of the genitive case, the case that denotes production; as the son of man, the son proceeding from man, produced from man. This is the primary sense, although we now say, produced by man. 'Part of these were slain; ' that is, a number separate, for part denotes a division; the sense then is, a number from or out of the whole were slain. So also, 'some of these were slain; ' that is…

that not with threshing sledge it is threshed black cumin and a wheel of a cart over cumin it is turned for with staff it is beaten out black cumin and cumin with rod
עֲגָלָ֔ה'a.ga.Lah a cart H5699 Noun common · feminine singular absolute
25× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
This Hebrew word refers to a wheeled vehicle, such as a cart or wagon. It appears in the Bible, describing transportation and trade. The word is often translated as 'cart', 'chariot', or 'wagon'.
Amplified meaning
a wheeled vehicle
Tyndale gloss
cart
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

עֲגָלָה (agalah) refers to a wheeled vehicle, such as a cart, chariot, or wagon, derived from the concept of rolling. The entries consistently emphasize its function as a transport vehicle, with no significant disagreement among the lexicons.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

עֲגָלָה n.f. cart (from rolling of wheels)

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H5699 עֲגָלָה cart (from rolling of wheels)

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

5699 `agalah ag-aw-law'

from the same as 5696; something revolving, i.e. a wheeled

vehicle:--cart, chariot, wagon

see HEBREW for 05696

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

עֲגָלָה (a.ga.lah) — cart.

cart, wagon

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
N-fs — Noun common · feminine singular absolute
HNcfsa
Bible dictionarieson the English sense
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia

kart (`aghalah): The Hebrew word has been translated in some passages "cart," and in others "wagon." In one verse only has it been translated "chariot." The context of the various passages indicates that a distinction was made between vehicles which were used for carrying baggage or produce and those used for carrying riders (chariots), although in their primitive form of construction they were much the same (compare English "cart" and "carriage").

Carts, like "chariots" (which see), were of Assyrian origin. They were early carried to Egypt where the flat nature of the country readily led to their adoption. From Egypt they gradually found their way among the people of the Palestinian plains. In the hills of Judea and Central Palestine, except where highways were built (1Sa 6:12), the nature of the country prevented the use of wheeled…

Easton's Bible Dictionary

Cart

A vehicle moving on wheels, and usually drawn by oxen (2 Sam. 6:3). The Hebrew word thus rendered, ’agalah (1 Sam. 6:7, 8), is also rendered “wagon” (Gen. 45:19). It is used also to denote a war-chariot (Ps. 46:9). Carts were used for the removal of the ark and its sacred utensils (Num. 7:3, 6). After retaining the ark amongst them for seven months, the Philistines sent it back to the Israelites. On this occasion they set it in a new cart, probably a rude construction, with solid wooden wheels like that still used in Western Asia, which was drawn by two milch cows, which conveyed it straight to Beth-shemesh.

Smith's Bible Dictionary

(Genesis 45:19,27; Numbers 7:3,7,8) a vehicle drawn by cattle, (2 Samuel 6:6) to be distinguished from the chariot drawn by horses. Carts and wagons were either open or covered, (Numbers 7:3) and were used for conveyance of person, (Genesis 45:19) burdens, (1 Samuel 6:7,8) or produce. (Amos 2:13) The only cart used in western Asia has two wheels of solid wood.

Nave's Topical Bible

→ General scriptures concerning 1Sa 6:7-14; 2Sa 6:3; Isa 28:27,28

→ See WAGON

that not with threshing sledge it is threshed black cumin and a wheel of a cart over cumin it is turned for with staff it is beaten out black cumin and cumin with rod
עַל־'al- over H5921 Preposition
5,774× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.
Tyndale gloss
upon
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

The Hebrew word עַל (*al*) is a preposition meaning 'upon' and encompasses a wide range of meanings, including 'on account of,' 'beside,' 'above,' and 'against.' It can indicate physical placement, emotional burdens, or duties imposed on a person. The entries also note its use in idiomatic expressions and with verbs of motion. There is a mention of its function as a conjunction in certain contexts.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

כִּי עַל כֵּן forasmuch as

base

עַל, עָ֑ל

subst. height

As prep. upon, and hence on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against

Upon, of the substratum upon which an object in any way rests, or on which an action is performed

of clothing, etc., which any one wears

With verbs of covering or protecting, even though the cover or veil be not over or above the thing covered, but around or before it

Of what rests heavily upon a person, or is a burden to him

Of a duty, payment, care, etc., imposed upon a person, or devolving on him

על is used idiom. to give pathos to the expression of an emotion, by emphasizing the person who is its subject, and who, as it were, feels it acting upon him

חָיָה עַל to live upon (as upon a foundation or support)

Read the full entry →
Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H5921a עַל, עָ֑ל . As prep. upon, and hence on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against . Upon, of the substratum upon which an object in any way rests, or on which an action is performed . — . of clothing, etc., which any one wears

. With verbs of covering or protecting, even though the cover or veil be not over or above the thing covered, but around or before it

. Of what rests heavily upon a person, or is a burden to him

. Of a duty, payment, care, etc., imposed upon a person, or devolving on him

. על is used idiom. to give pathos to the expression of an emotion, by emphasizing the person who is its subject, and who, as it were, feels it acting upon him

. חָיָה עַל to live upon (as upon a foundation or support)

Read the full entry →
Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

5921 `al al

properly, the same as 5920 used as a preposition (in the

singular or plural often with prefix, or as conjunction with a

particle following); above, over, upon, or against (yet always

in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great

variety of applications (as follow):--above, according

to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, X as, at, because

of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, X both

and, by (reason of), X had the charge of, concerning for, in

(that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-)on, over, than,

through(-out), to, touching, X with.

see HEBREW for 05920

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

עַל (al) — upon.

prep

1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against

1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards

1b) above, beyond, over (of excess)

1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence)

1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition)

1e) over (of suspension or extension)

1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity)

1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion)

1h) to (as a dative)

[כִּי] עַל [כֵּן] ([ki] al [ken]) — as.

conj

Read the full entry →
Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
Prep — Preposition
HR
The company it keepswords that stand beside it more often than chance
that not with threshing sledge it is threshed black cumin and a wheel of a cart over cumin it is turned for with staff it is beaten out black cumin and cumin with rod
כַּמֹּ֖ןka.Mon cumin H3646 Noun common · masculine singular absolute
3× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
Cummin is a seed used as a condiment, mentioned in the Bible as something Jesus taught about in the book of Matthew and Mark. It was a common spice in ancient times.
Amplified meaning
a seed used as a condiment
Tyndale gloss
cummin
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

כַּמֹּן (kammon) refers to cummin, a plant used as a condiment. The entries suggest it is derived from a root meaning to store up or preserve, highlighting its culinary use. All sources consistently define it as cummin, with no significant disagreements noted.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

כַּמֹּן n.m. cummin, plant grown as condiment

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H3646 כַּמֹּן cummin, plant grown as condiment

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

3646 kammon kam-mone'

from an unused root meaning to store up or preserve; "cummin"

(from its use as a condiment):--cummin.

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

כַּמֹּן (kam.mon) — cummin.

1) cummin, cumin

1a) a seed used as a condiment

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
N-ms — Noun common · masculine singular absolute
HNcmsa
The company it keepswords that stand beside it more often than chance
that not with threshing sledge it is threshed black cumin and a wheel of a cart over cumin it is turned for with staff it is beaten out black cumin and cumin with rod
יוּסָּ֑בyu.Sav it is turned H5437 Verb · Hophal · imperfect third person masculine singular
161× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
To turn or surround is the meaning of this Hebrew word, which can be used literally or figuratively. It appears in the Bible to describe changing direction or surrounding something.
Tyndale gloss
to turn: turn
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

The Hebrew word סָבַב (savav) means to turn or go around, encompassing a range of actions such as surrounding, marching, and changing direction. It is built from a primitive root and has various applications, both literal and figurative, including transforming or enclosing. The entries detail its uses in different verbal forms, but do not present any significant disagreement among lexicons.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

סָבַב vb. turn about, go around, surround

Qal

turn, intrans.

march, or walk, around

go partly round, circle, skirt

make a round, or circuit, go about to

surround, encompass

Niph.

turn oneself against, close round upon

turn round (from a direct course)

esp. of boundary: turn round from, toward

pass. be turned over to, into the power of

Pi. to change, transform, the aspect of the matter

Po‛.

encompass (with protection)

come about, assemble round

march or go about

enclose, envelop

Hiph.

turn (trans.), cause to turn

bring over (i.e. to allegiance)

turn into, of changing name

= bring round, of changing name

cause to go around

surround with (acc.) wall

perh. also encompass (as foe)

Hoph.

be turned, of cart wheel

surrounded, i.e. set, of jewels

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H5437 סָבַב turn about, go around, surround .. turn, intrans.

. . march, or walk, around

. go partly round, circle, skirt

. make a round, or circuit, go about to

. surround, encompass

. . . turn oneself against, close round upon

. turn round (from a direct course)

. esp. of boundary: turn round from, toward

. pass. be turned over to, into the power of

. to change, transform, the aspect of the matter

. . encompass (with protection)

. come about, assemble round

. march or go about

. enclose, envelop

. . . turn (trans.), cause to turn

. bring over (i.e. to allegiance)

. turn into, of changing name

. = bring round, of changing name

. . cause to go around

. surround with (acc.) wall

. perh. also encompass (as foe)

. . be turned, of cart wheel

. surrounded, i.e. set, of jewels

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

5437 cabab saw-bab'

a primitive root; to revolve, surround, or border; used in

various applications, literally and figuratively (as

follows):--bring, cast, fetch, lead, make, walk, X whirl, X

round about, be about on every side, apply, avoid, beset

(about), besiege, bring again, carry (about), change, cause to

come about, X circuit, (fetch a) compass (about, round),

drive, environ, X on every side, beset (close, come, compass,

go, stand) round about, inclose, remove, return, set, sit

down, turn (self) (about, aside, away, back).

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

סָבַב (sa.vav) — to turn: turn.

: turn/bring_around

1) to turn, turn about or around or aside or back or towards, go about or around, surround, encircle, change direction

1a) (Qal)

1a1) to turn, turn about, be brought round, change

1a2) to march or walk around, go partly around, circle about, skirt, make a round, make a circuit, go about to, surround, encompass

1b) (Niphal)

1b1) to turn oneself, close round, turn round

1b2) to be turned over to

1c) (Piel) to turn about, change, transform

1d) (Poel)

1d1) to encompass, surround

1d2) to come about, assemble round

1d3) to march, go about

1d4) to enclose, envelop

1e) (Hiphil)

1e1) to turn, cause to turn, turn back, reverse, bring over, turn into, bring round

1e2) to cause to go around, surround, encompass

1f) (Hophal)

1f1) to be turned

1f2) to be surrounded

סָבַב (sa.vav) — to turn: surround.

: surround/go_round

Read the full entry →
Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
V-Hophal-Imperf-3ms — Verb · Hophal · imperfect third person masculine singular
HVHi3ms
that not with threshing sledge it is threshed black cumin and a wheel of a cart over cumin it is turned for with staff it is beaten out black cumin and cumin with rod
כִּ֧יki for H3588 Particle
4,483× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
A conjunction used to show cause or connection, as in Genesis 2:23 where Adam says the woman is bone of his bone because she was taken out of him. It is often translated as 'for', 'because', or 'since'.
Tyndale gloss
for
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

כִּי (ki) is a conjunction primarily meaning 'that,' 'for,' or 'when.' It indicates causal relationships and can express conditions like 'if' or 'though.' The word is versatile, appearing in various contexts to convey certainty, exception, or concession. Notably, it can combine with other particles to modify its meaning, such as in the phrase כִּי אם־ (ki im), meaning 'that if.'

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

כִּי conj. that, for, when

that

Of time, when, of the past

elsewhere כִּי has a force approximating to if, though it usu. represents a case as more likely to occur than אִם

when or if, with a concessive force, i.e. though

Because, since

base

כִּי אם־

each part. retaining its independent force, and relating to a different clause:

that if

for if

(About 140 t.) the two particles being closely conjoined, and relating to the same clause—

limiting the prec. clause, except

the if being neglected, and treated as pleonastic, so that the clause is no longer a limitation of the preceding clause but a contradiction of it: but rather, but

after an oath, surely

base

כִּי עַל כֵּן forasmuch as

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H3588a כִּי that, for, when . that

. . Of time, when, of the past

. elsewhere כִּי has a force approximating to if, though it usu. represents a case as more likely to occur than אִם

. when or if, with a concessive force, i.e. though

. Because, since

H3588b כִּי אם־ . each part. retaining its independent force, and relating to a different clause: . that if

. for if

. (About 140 t.) the two particles being closely conjoined, and relating to the same clause— . limiting the prec. clause, except

. the if being neglected, and treated as pleonastic, so that the clause is no longer a limitation of the preceding clause but a contradiction of it: but rather, but

. after an oath, surely

H3588c כִּי עַל כֵּן forasmuch as

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

3588 kiy kee

a primitive particle (the full form of the prepositional

prefix) indicating causal relations of all kinds, antecedent

or consequent; (by implication) very widely used as a relative

conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by

other particles annexed:--and, + (forasmuch, inasmuch,

where-)as, assured(-ly), + but, certainly, doubtless, + else,

even, + except, for, how, (because, in, so, than) that, +

nevertheless, now, rightly, seeing, since, surely, then,

therefore, + (al- )though, + till, truly, + until, when,

whether, while, whom, yea, yet.

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

כִּי (ki) — for.

1) that, for, because, when, as though, as, because that, but, then, certainly, except, surely, since

1a) that

1a1) yea, indeed

1b) when (of time)

1b1) when, if, though (with a concessive force)

1c) because, since (causal connection)

1d) but (after negative)

1e) that if, for if, indeed if, for though, but if

1f) but rather, but

1g) except that

1h) only, nevertheless

1i) surely

1j) that is

1k) but if

1l) for though

1m) forasmuch as, for therefore

כִּי [אם] (ki im) — that if: except.

1) except if

1a) but if

1b) even though

כִּי [עַל כֵּן] (ki [al ken]) — for as that: since.

1) that, for, because, when, as though, as, because that, but, then, certainly, except, surely, since

1a) that

1a1) yea, indeed

1b) when (of time)

1b1) when, if, though (with a concessive force)

1c) because, since (causal connection)

1d) but (after negative)

Read the full entry →
Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
Conj — Particle
HTc
Bible dictionarieson the English sense
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia

for (ki (conjunction), le, from 'el (preposition), and various other words. In the New Testament also the words are various, chiefly gar, kai gar, hoti (conjunctions); anti apo eis dia (accusative), epi (dative and accusative), peri (genitive), pros (genitive and accusative), huper (genitive) (prepositions)): the English Revised Version and the American Standard Revised Version give in many cases more literal or more accurate renderings than those in the King James Version.

In the New Testament the most important preps. from a doctrinal point of view are anti, "face to face," "over against," "instead," "on behalf of," peri, "around," "about," "concerning," huper, "over," "on behalf of." The first has been claimed as stating the substitutionary nature of Christ's sacrifice as contrasted with huper and peri, more frequently used of it. But, although anti in the New Testament often means…

The company it keepswords that stand beside it more often than chance
that not with threshing sledge it is threshed black cumin and a wheel of a cart over cumin it is turned for with staff it is beaten out black cumin and cumin with rod
בַמַּטֶּ֛הva.ma.Teh with staff H4294 Preposition · noun common masculine singular absolute
252× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
In the Bible, this word can mean a tribe, like the 12 tribes of Israel, or a staff, like the one Moses used to lead his people in Exodus 4:2.
Amplified meaning
a staff
Tyndale gloss
tribe
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

מַטֶּה (mat-teh) refers to a staff, rod, or branch, and can also denote a tribe. It is derived from a root meaning to extend, and its uses include both literal and figurative meanings, such as a support or a means of correction. The lexicons consistently highlight its association with leadership and community.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

מַטֶּה 251 n.m.

staff, rod, shaft

branch

tribe

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H4294 מַטֶּה . staff, rod, shaft

. branch

. tribe

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

4294 matteh mat-teh'

or (feminine) mattah {mat-taw'}; from 5186; a branch (as

extending); figuratively, a tribe; also a rod, whether for

chastising (figuratively, correction), ruling (a sceptre),

throwing (a lance), or walking (a staff; figuratively, a

support of life, e.g. bread):--rod, staff, tribe.

see HEBREW for 05186

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

מַטֶּה (mat.teh) — tribe: rod.

: rod/staff

1) staff, branch, tribe

1a) staff, rod, shaft

1b) branch (of vine)

1c) tribe

1c1) company led by chief with staff (originally)

מַטֶּה (mat.teh) — tribe.

: tribe

1) staff, branch, tribe

1a) staff, rod, shaft

1b) branch (of vine)

1c) tribe

1c1) company led by chief with staff (originally)

מַטֶּה (mat.teh) — tribe: arrow.

: arrow

1) staff, branch, tribe

1a) staff, rod, shaft

1b) branch (of vine)

1c) tribe

1c1) company led by chief with staff (originally)

מַטֶּה (mat.teh) — tribe: stick.

: stick

1) staff, branch, tribe

1a) staff, rod, shaft

1b) branch (of vine)

1c) tribe

1c1) company led by chief with staff (originally)

מַטֶּה (mat.teh) — tribe: supply.

: supply

1) staff, branch, tribe

1a) staff, rod, shaft

1b) branch (of vine)

1c) tribe

1c1) company led by chief with staff (originally)

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
Prep | N-ms — Preposition · noun common masculine singular absolute
HRd/Ncmsa
Bible dictionarieson the English sense
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia

staf: Many Hebrew terms are represented by this word. The "staves" of the ark translate the word badh, literally, "a part," hence, branch, bar, etc. (Ex 25:13,14,15,27,28, etc.). Other words, as matteh, maqqel, shebhet, used of the staff in the hand, the shepherd's staff, figuratively, "staff of bread" (matteh, Eze 4:16; 5:16; 14:13), as indispensable for support of life, are dealt with under ROD (which see). The New Testament word is rhabdos (Mt 10:10 parallel Lu 9:3; Heb 11:21).

See also SCEPTRE.

Thompson Chain Reference topics
that not with threshing sledge it is threshed black cumin and a wheel of a cart over cumin it is turned for with staff it is beaten out black cumin and cumin with rod
יֵחָ֥בֶטye.Cha.vet it is beaten out H2251 Verb · Niphal · imperfect third person masculine singular
5× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
This Hebrew word means to beat or knock something out, like threshing grain. It is used in the Old Testament to describe physical labor or battle. In the KJV, it is translated as 'beat' or 'thresh'.
Tyndale gloss
to beat
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

חָבַט (chabat) is a Hebrew verb meaning to beat, specifically in contexts like beating out grain or knocking something off. The entries indicate it can be used in both the Qal and Niphal forms, with the Niphal suggesting a passive sense of being beaten out. There are no significant disagreements among the lexicons.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

[חָבַט] vb. beat off, beat out

Qal

beat off

beat out (grain)

Niph. fennel beaten out

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H2251 [חָבַט] beat off, beat out

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

2251 chabat khaw-bat'

a primitive root; to knock out or off:--beat (off, out),

thresh.

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

חָבַט (cha.vat) — to beat.

1) to beat, beat out, beat off, thresh

1a) (Qal)

1a1) to beat out

1a2) to beat off

1b) (Niphal) to be beaten out

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
V-Niphal-Imperf-3ms — Verb · Niphal · imperfect third person masculine singular
HVNi3ms
The company it keepswords that stand beside it more often than chance
that not with threshing sledge it is threshed black cumin and a wheel of a cart over cumin it is turned for with staff it is beaten out black cumin and cumin with rod
קֶ֖צַחKe.tzach black cumin H7100 Noun common · masculine singular absolute
3× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
Qetsach refers to a type of herb, specifically dill or fennelflower, known for its strong flavor and aroma. In the KJV, it is translated as 'fitches', a type of plant used as a condiment.
Tyndale gloss
dill
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

קֶ֫צַח (qetsach) refers to black cumin, a plant known for its small, acrid seeds used as a condiment. The entries suggest it may also relate to a pungent fennel flower, though the primary focus is on its culinary use.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

קֶ֫צַח n.m. black cumin;—plant with small black acrid seeds, used as condiment

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H7100 קֶ֫צַח black cumin;—plant with small black acrid seeds, used as condiment

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

7100 qetsach keh'-tsakh

from an unused root apparently meaning to incise;

fennelflower (from its pungency):--fitches.

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

קֶ֫צַח (qe.tsach) — dill.

1) black cummin

1a) a plant with small black acrid seeds used as a condiment

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
N-ms — Noun common · masculine singular absolute
HNcmsa
The company it keepswords that stand beside it more often than chance
that not with threshing sledge it is threshed black cumin and a wheel of a cart over cumin it is turned for with staff it is beaten out black cumin and cumin with rod
וְכַמֹּ֥ןve.kha.Mon and cumin H3646 Conjunction · noun common masculine singular absolute
3× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
Cummin is a seed used as a condiment, mentioned in the Bible as something Jesus taught about in the book of Matthew and Mark. It was a common spice in ancient times.
Tyndale gloss
cummin
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

כַּמֹּן (kammon) refers to cummin, a plant used as a condiment. The entries suggest it is derived from a root meaning to store up or preserve, highlighting its culinary use. All sources consistently define it as cummin, with no significant disagreements noted.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

כַּמֹּן n.m. cummin, plant grown as condiment

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H3646 כַּמֹּן cummin, plant grown as condiment

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

3646 kammon kam-mone'

from an unused root meaning to store up or preserve; "cummin"

(from its use as a condiment):--cummin.

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

כַּמֹּן (kam.mon) — cummin.

1) cummin, cumin

1a) a seed used as a condiment

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
Conj | N-ms — Conjunction · noun common masculine singular absolute
HC/Ncmsa
The company it keepswords that stand beside it more often than chance
that not with threshing sledge it is threshed black cumin and a wheel of a cart over cumin it is turned for with staff it is beaten out black cumin and cumin with rod
בַּשָּֽׁבֶט׃ba.Sha.vet with rod H7626 Preposition · noun common masculine singular absolute
190× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
This word means a stick or staff, but also a clan or tribe, and can refer to a symbol of authority or a tool for punishing. It is used in the Bible to describe the rods used by shepherds or the scepters of kings.
Amplified meaning
a tool for punishment or guidance
Tyndale gloss
tribe
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

שֵׁ֫בֶט (shebet) refers to both a physical object and a social group. It can mean a rod, staff, or sceptre, often associated with authority or punishment, as well as a tribe or clan. The word is built from a root likely meaning to branch off, indicating both literal and figurative uses.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

שֵׁ֫בֶט 189 n.m. 1. rod, staff, club, sceptre. 2. tribe

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H7626 שֵׁ֫בֶט 1. rod, staff, club, sceptre. 2. tribe

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

7626 shebet shay'-bet

from an unused root probably meaning to branch off; a scion,

i.e. (literally) a stick (for punishing, writing, fighting,

ruling, walking, etc.) or (figuratively) a clan:--X

correction, dart, rod, sceptre, staff, tribe.

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

שֵׁ֫בֶט (she.vet) — tribe: staff.

: staff

1) rod, staff, branch, offshoot, club, sceptre, tribe

1a) rod, staff

1b) shaft (of spear, dart)

1c) club (of shepherd's implement)

1d) truncheon, sceptre (mark of authority)

1e) clan, tribe

שֵׁ֫בֶט (she.vet) — tribe.

: tribe

1) rod, staff, branch, offshoot, club, sceptre, tribe

1a) rod, staff

1b) shaft (of spear, dart)

1c) club (of shepherd's implement)

1d) truncheon, sceptre (mark of authority)

1e) clan, tribe

שֵׁ֫בֶט (she.vet) — tribe: javelin.

: javelin

1) rod, staff, branch, offshoot, club, sceptre, tribe

1a) rod, staff

1b) shaft (of spear, dart)

1c) club (of shepherd's implement)

1d) truncheon, sceptre (mark of authority)

1e) clan, tribe

שֵׁ֫בֶט (she.vet) — tribe: ruler.

: ruler

1) rod, staff, branch, offshoot, club, sceptre, tribe

1a) rod, staff

1b) shaft (of spear, dart)

1c) club (of shepherd's implement)

Read the full entry →
Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
Prep | N-ms — Preposition · noun common masculine singular absolute
HRd/Ncmsa
Bible dictionarieson the English sense
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia

(maqqel, maTTeh, shebheT; rhabdos): Little distinction can be drawn between the Hebrew words used for "rod" and "staff." Maqqel is the word used in Ge 30:37 ff for the twigs of poplar put by Jacob before his sheep, and in Jer 1:11 of the "rod of an almond-tree." MaTTeh is used of a rod in the hand, as the "rods" of Moses and of Aaron (Ex 4:2 ff; 7:9 , etc.). ShebheT is used, but sometimes also maTTeh, of the rod used for correction (Ex 21:20; 2Sa 7:14; Pr 10:13; 13:24; Isa 10:5, etc.). In

An offshoot from the trunk of a tree, Ge 30:37 Isa 11:1 Eze 37:15-22. It also denotes a staff, used by one walking, Isa 3:1 Eze 29:6; by a diviner, Ho 4:12; by a surveyor, Ps 74:2; by a shepherd, Le 27:32 Zec 11:10-14; as an instrument of correction, Pr 23:13 29:15; as a sceptre, Es 8:4

Sources on this page. Lexicons and dictionaries imported from the CrossWire SWORD modules — Abbott-Smith, Strong's, Dodson, the Intermediate Liddell-Scott-Jones, Robinson and Packard, Webster and Cawdrey. Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament (Harper, 1889 — Grimm’s Wilke’s Clavis Novi Testamenti, translated, revised and enlarged by Joseph Henry Thayer) is public domain and is set here from the Internet Archive page scan greekenglishlex00grim; it is uncorrected OCR, marked as such on the entry itself, and the Strong’s numbers — which Thayer’s own edition does not carry — were matched by lemma against the other modules on this page. Trench’s Synonyms of the New Testament (Macmillan, 1880) and Moulton and Milligan’s Vocabulary of the Greek Testament (Hodder & Stoughton, 1930, which entered the United States public domain on 1 January 2026) are set from Internet Archive page scans synonymsofnewtes00treniala and vocabularyofgree00mouluoft, and are likewise uncorrected OCR matched to Strong’s numbers by lemma. Trench treats a group of words at once, so the same essay stands on the page of each word it compares. The Mounce Concise Greek-English Dictionary is © 1993 and is used here by permission for non-commercial use, www.teknia.com/greek-dictionary. The full Liddell-Scott-Jones and the Hebrew word data (TAHOT) come from STEPBible.org, CC BY 4.0. Brown-Driver-Briggs is the OpenScriptures digitisation, public domain. Syntax analysis is the Nestle 1904 Lowfat treebank (biblicalhumanities.org); the concordance and morphology are built from the tagged Nestle 1904 text. Septuagint occurrences use the Open Scriptures Septuagint lemma index, derived from CCAT (University of Pennsylvania) and the Rahlfs 1935 dataset by Eliran Wong, CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 — used here on a non-commercial ministry site. Greek of Josephus and Barnabas from the Perseus Digital Library, CC BY-SA 4.0. Commentaries and the Ante-Nicene Fathers are public-domain texts hosted on this site. Everyday Greek from the Duke Databank of Documentary Papyri, CC BY 3.0, with dates and provenance from the Heidelberger Gesamtverzeichnis. Philo and the Apostolic Fathers from Open Greek and Latin (First1KGreek), CC BY-SA 4.0. The apparatus and the fifth Greek column are the SBL Greek New Testament, © 2010 SBL and Logos Bible Software, CC BY 4.0. The Latin is the Clementine Vulgate (public domain); the Syriac New Testament is the ETCBC edition (MIT licence). The Hebrew behind the Greek is computed here from the Septuagint index and TAHOT, not taken from any aligned edition. The translation spread and the per-word edition marks come from the Translators Amalgamated Greek NT (STEPBible, CC BY 4.0); clause roles from the Nestle 1904 Lowfat treebank (CC BY-SA 4.0); place identifications and their confidence from OpenBible.info Bible Geocoding (CC BY 4.0), with map tiles © OpenStreetMap contributors. Gospel parallels are computed here from shared uncommon vocabulary, not taken from any printed harmony. Cross references are the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge and the subject headings are Nave’s Topical Bible, both public domain. Works under Creative Commons licences are used unchanged apart from markup removal.

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