כּוּמָז
a jewel (probably gold beads)
Definition
כּוּמָז (kûwmâz) refers to a type of personal ornament, likely a gold bead or pendant worn as jewelry. The term appears only twice in the Old Testament, both times in contexts of voluntary offerings brought to the Lord. In Exodus 35:22, both men and women contribute these ornaments following the construction of the Tabernacle. In Numbers 31:50, military commanders offer them after the Midianite war as an atonement offering. The precise shape and function remain uncertain, but it is clearly a valuable, wearable item of gold.
Biblical Usage
This word is used exclusively in two passages describing freewill offerings of precious items to God. In Exodus 35:22, it is brought by the Israelites, both men and women, for the work of the Tabernacle. In Numbers 31:50, it is presented by the commanders of the army as a ransom for their souls after battle. The usage pattern shows it as a personal possession willingly given in a sacred context.
Etymology
Derived from an unused Hebrew root meaning 'to store away' or 'to hoard,' suggesting an item of value that is kept or treasured. This etymology aligns with its context as a stored item of personal wealth that could be offered.
Semantic Range
This word highlights the theme of voluntary, heartfelt giving to God from one's personal treasures. The offerings in Exodus 35:22 (for the Tabernacle) and Numbers 31:50 (as atonement) demonstrate consecration and gratitude, showing that even personal adornments could be dedicated to God's service and for making amends. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches the reading by emphasizing the personal cost and devotion involved in these gifts.
In the ancient Near East, personal jewelry like the kûwmâz was a common form of storing and displaying wealth, especially for women. These were not merely decorative but represented financial security and social status. Offering such items was a significant sacrifice, transferring personal economic value into the religious community's assets.
חָרָז (chârâz, H2758) — a general term for a bead or jewel; עֲגִיל (ʿăgîyl, H5694) — a specific type of earring or hoop; נֶזֶם (nezem, H5141) — a ring, often for the nose or ear.
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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