חָרִיט
properly, cut out (or hollow), i.e. (by implication) a pocket
Definition
The Hebrew noun חָרִיט (chârîyṭ) refers to a 'pocket' or 'bag' that is cut out or hollowed, likely from a piece of fabric or leather. In its two biblical occurrences, it denotes a portable container for holding items. In 2 Kings 5:23, it is used for bags that could hold a substantial amount of silver, carried by Naaman's servants. In Isaiah 3:22, within a list of luxury items, it is traditionally understood as a 'crisping pin' (KJV) or 'handbag' (modern translations), suggesting a decorative pouch or accessory for women.
Biblical Usage
This word appears only twice in the Old Testament, in two distinct contexts. In 2 Kings 5:23, it describes the 'bags' used by Gehazi to deceitfully collect silver and garments from Naaman. In Isaiah 3:22, it is listed among the fineries and adornments of the 'daughters of Zion' that will be taken away in judgment. The usage shows it could be a functional bag for transport or a fashionable accessory.
Etymology
Derived from the root חרט (ḥrṭ), relating to engraving or cutting. It is connected to חֶרֶט (cheret, H2747), meaning 'stylus' or 'engraving tool.' The noun's sense of a 'pocket' or 'bag' develops from the idea of something that is 'cut out' or hollowed to create a container.
Semantic Range
While the word itself is a mundane object, its use in 2 Kings 5:23 is tied to the narrative of Gehazi's greed and deception, contrasting the grace received by Naaman. In Isaiah 3:22, it appears in a prophetic condemnation of pride and misplaced trust in luxury, highlighting God's judgment on societal vanity. Understanding the term clarifies the tangible symbols of sin and judgment in these passages.
In the ancient Near East, bags or pouches were essential for carrying personal items, money, or weights. The 'crisping pin' interpretation in Isaiah 3:22 reflects a specific cultural item—possibly a small metal rod used for curling hair or a decorative purse—indicating the extravagance of urban elite women in Judah. The dual use for both heavy transport (2 Kings) and personal adornment shows its varied practical and social functions.
כִּיס (kîs, H3599) — a more general term for 'bag' or 'purse,' often for money. צְרוֹר (tseror, H6872) — a 'bundle' or 'bag,' typically for carrying valuables or weights.
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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