חַסְפַּס
a shred or scale
Definition
The Hebrew word חַסְפַּס (chaçpaç) refers to a small, thin, flaky substance, best understood as a 'shred' or 'scale.' It appears only in Exodus 16:14, where it describes the fine, flaky layer of manna that appeared on the ground after the morning dew had evaporated. The term emphasizes the delicate, wafer-like texture of the miraculous food. No other biblical passages use this word, so its meaning is derived solely from this context.
Biblical Usage
This word is used exactly once in the Old Testament, in Exodus 16:14, within the narrative of God providing manna for the Israelites in the wilderness. The context is descriptive, painting a vivid picture of the manna's physical appearance as a fine, flaky substance covering the ground. Its singular usage is tied specifically to this miraculous event.
Etymology
The word is a reduplicated form, likely derived from an unused root meaning 'to peel' or 'to strip off.' This reduplication suggests something small, thin, and perhaps repetitive in form, like flakes or scales. The structure of the word itself phonetically evokes the idea of a light, layered substance.
Semantic Range
While the word itself is a simple descriptor, its sole application to the manna in Exodus 16 gives it theological significance. It highlights the precise and miraculous nature of God's provision. The delicate, flaky substance was both supernatural in origin and perfectly suited for sustenance, underscoring God's attentive care and faithfulness in meeting the needs of His people. Understanding this specific Hebrew term enriches the reader's mental image of the manna, moving it from a generic 'bread' to a uniquely textured, heaven-sent provision.
In its original setting, the description of manna as a 'shred' or 'scale' would have contrasted sharply with common, coarse breads or grains. This delicate, frost-like substance appearing daily on the ground was entirely outside normal agricultural experience, reinforcing its identity as a miraculous sign. The term helps modern readers grasp how strange and wondrous this provision would have seemed to the Israelites.
None directly applicable for this unique descriptor of manna.
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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