חוּט
to string together, i.e. (figuratively) to repair
Definition
The Hebrew verb חוּט (chûwṭ) means to string together or to join, often in the sense of repairing or mending something by connecting its parts. In its single biblical occurrence in Ezra 4:12, it is used figuratively to describe the Jewish exiles 'repairing' or 'rebuilding' the walls of Jerusalem, implying the restoration of the city's defenses and structural integrity. The word carries the core idea of making something whole again by linking its components, whether literally with cords or metaphorically in reconstruction.
Biblical Usage
This word appears only once in the Old Testament, in Ezra 4:12, within an Aramaic portion of the book. It is used in the context of a letter of accusation sent to King Artaxerxes, where the adversaries of Judah claim the returned exiles are 'repairing' (joining together) the walls and foundations of Jerusalem. The usage is specific to the narrative of post-exilic rebuilding and opposition.
Etymology
The word is an Aramaic verb corresponding to the Hebrew root found in the noun חוּט (chûwṭ, H2339), meaning 'thread' or 'cord.' It is likely a denominative verb derived from that noun, meaning 'to act with a thread'—hence, to string together or join. This connection highlights the tangible image of using a cord to bind or repair items.
Semantic Range
Though used only once, this word is theologically significant as it appears in the context of restoring Jerusalem after the exile. It underscores the theme of God's people rebuilding and repairing what was broken, reflecting divine faithfulness in restoration. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches the reading of Ezra by emphasizing the active, diligent work of re-establishing the community and city under God's providence.
In the ancient Near East, repairing city walls was a critical act for security and civic identity. The accusation in Ezra 4:12 reflects the political tensions of the Persian Empire, where local rebuilding could be seen as rebellion. The term's root in 'thread' or 'cord' points to practical methods of construction and repair, using materials like ropes to bind stones or timbers.
בָּנָה (bānâ, H1129) — to build, a more general term for construction. חָזַק (chāzaq, H2388) — to strengthen or repair, often used for fortifying walls. תִּקֵּן (tiqqēn, H8626) — to mend or set right, with a focus on correction.
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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