נְחוּשָׁה
copper
Definition
נְחוּשָׁה refers to copper or bronze, a durable metal alloy used extensively in the ancient Near East. In most biblical contexts, it denotes the metal itself, often in descriptions of tools, weapons, or idols (e.g., Job 28:2, Isaiah 45:2). However, the word can also symbolize strength and resilience, as seen when God promises to make David's arms like 'bronze' for battle (2 Samuel 22:35, Psalm 18:34). In a few poetic passages, it may describe a metallic sheen or color, such as in the description of Leviathan's scales (Job 41:27).
Biblical Usage
This noun appears 10 times, primarily in poetic and prophetic books (Job, Psalms, Isaiah). It is used literally for mining (Job 28:2), weaponry (2 Samuel 22:35), and construction materials (Isaiah 45:2). In Leviticus 26:19, it metaphorically describes the sky under divine judgment, becoming 'like iron' and the earth 'like bronze,' symbolizing barrenness and hardness. The usage consistently emphasizes durability, whether in physical objects or symbolic imagery.
Etymology
Derived from the root נ־ח־שׁ (n-ḥ-š), which relates to divination or enchantment (as in נָחָשׁ, H5176, 'serpent' or 'diviner'), נְחוּשָׁה is the feminine form of נָחוּשׁ (H5153, 'copper'). The connection may stem from the shiny, serpent-like appearance of copper or from the use of copper in ritual objects. Cognates exist in other Semitic languages, like Ugaritic nḥšt and Arabic nuḥās, all meaning 'copper' or 'bronze.'
Semantic Range
נְחוּשָׁה carries theological weight as a symbol of divine strength and human judgment. When God equips David with 'arms of bronze' (2 Samuel 22:35), it illustrates God's empowerment for victory. Conversely, in Leviticus 26:19, bronze skies represent God's covenantal curse, turning creation unyielding due to disobedience. Understanding this metal's dual symbolism—as both a gift of resilience and a sign of hardened judgment—enriches readings of God's character in justice and provision.
In the ancient Near East, copper (often alloyed with tin to make bronze) was a vital technological material for tools, weapons, and ceremonial items. Biblical references reflect its common use, but modern readers might overlook that 'bronze' often implied a stronger alloy than pure copper. The metal's value and durability made it a fitting metaphor for enduring strength or impenetrable barriers in poetic texts.
נְחֹשֶׁת (nᵉchōsheth, H5178) — a nearly identical term for copper/bronze, used more frequently. נָחָשׁ (nāḥāš, H5176) — 'serpent' or 'diviner,' sharing the same root, highlighting a possible ancient link between the metal's sheen and serpents. פַּרְזֶל (parzel, H1270) — 'iron,' a harder metal often paired with bronze (e.g., Leviticus 26:19) to denote strength.
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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