אַגְמוֹן
a bulrush (as growing there); collectively a rope of bulrushes
Definition
The Hebrew word אַגְמוֹן refers primarily to a bulrush or reed, a common water plant growing in marshy areas. In its literal sense, it describes the plant itself, as in Job 41:2 where it symbolizes something fragile. Collectively, these reeds could be bound into a rope or cord, a usage seen in Job 41:20. Figuratively, the word is used to represent weakness or insignificance, especially when contrasted with strength, as in Isaiah's prophecies where it describes the vulnerable leaders of Israel (Isaiah 9:14) or the futile 'work' of Egypt (Isaiah 19:15).
Biblical Usage
אַגְמוֹן appears five times in the Old Testament, exclusively in poetic and prophetic books (Job and Isaiah). In Job 41, it is used twice in descriptions of the leviathan to illustrate fragility (Job 41:2) and to describe a rope made of rushes (Job 41:20). In Isaiah, it is used metaphorically three times: to depict weak leadership (Isaiah 9:14), ineffective counsel (Isaiah 19:15), and in a context of false humility (Isaiah 58:5). Its usage consistently carries connotations of frailty, insubstantiality, or something easily broken.
Etymology
The noun אַגְמוֹן is derived from the root אֲגַם (H98), meaning 'pool' or 'marsh,' indicating its habitat as a marsh plant. Some scholars suggest a connection to a different root meaning 'to bind,' relating to its use in making ropes. The development of meaning moves from the plant itself to products made from it (like cords) and then to metaphorical uses for weakness.
Semantic Range
This word is theologically significant for its role in illustrating human fragility and divine sovereignty. In Isaiah's prophecies (Isaiah 9:14, 19:15), it underscores God's judgment on human pride and failed leadership, contrasting mortal weakness with God's strength. In Job 41:2, it highlights the futility of opposing God's creation. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches reading by revealing how biblical authors used a simple reed to symbolize spiritual instability and the need for reliance on God rather than frail human systems.
In ancient Near Eastern culture, bulrushes were commonplace, useful plants found along the Nile and in Palestinian marshes. They were used for making baskets, mats, ropes, and even paper, but were known for being pliable and not strong. This common knowledge made them an effective metaphor for weakness and instability. A modern reader might simply see 'reed,' but the original audience would have immediately grasped the connotations of something insubstantial, temporary, and easily crushed.
קָנֶה (qaneh, H7070) — a reed or stalk, often used for measuring; more general than אַגְמוֹן. סוּף (suph, H5488) — refers to reeds or rushes, specifically those of the Nile; the habitat is more specific. גֹּמֶא (gome', H1573) — papyrus reed, used for writing materials and boats; denotes a sturdier variety.
Word Details
How this works
Hebrew definitions are from Brown-Driver-Briggs (1906) and Strong's Exhaustive Concordance (1890), both public domain. BDB was groundbreaking for its era but reflects 19th-century assumptions about Semitic etymology. Modern scholarship (HALOT, DCH) has revised many entries. Use these definitions as a starting point for exploration, not as the final word on a term's meaning in context.
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