תְּשׂוּמֶת

a deposit, i.e. pledging

Definition

תְּשׂוּמֶת (tᵉsûwmeth) refers to a deposit or pledge given as security in a legal or financial transaction. In its sole biblical occurrence, it describes property entrusted to another person for safekeeping, which then becomes the subject of a dispute or deceit (Leviticus 6:2). The term implies a formal arrangement of trust where one party temporarily relinquishes possession, creating a binding obligation for the guardian. This concept is closely tied to ancient Israelite laws governing property, honesty, and restitution.

Biblical Usage

This word appears only once in the Old Testament, in Leviticus 6:2 (Hebrew Bible 5:21). It is used in a legal context within the Holiness Code, detailing offenses requiring a guilt offering. The verse describes a scenario where someone sins by lying about a 'deposit' (תְּשׂוּמֶת) left in their care. Its usage is strictly confined to this specific legal and ritual setting concerning breach of trust.

Etymology

Derived from the root שׂוּם (śûm, H7760), meaning 'to put, place, or set.' תְּשׂוּמֶת is a noun form indicating 'that which is placed' or 'something set down.' This root is common in Hebrew, appearing in words for 'statute' (חֻקָּה) and 'appointment.' The etymology highlights the act of entrusting an item by physically placing it into another's custody.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it underpins the biblical concept of fiduciary responsibility and integrity before God. The law in Leviticus 6:2-7 treats deceit regarding a deposit not merely as a civil wrong but as a 'sin against the Lord,' requiring confession, full restitution plus a penalty, and a guilt offering. It connects honest human dealings directly to one's relationship with God, emphasizing that breaches of trust in mundane affairs are matters of sacred accountability. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches the reading of Leviticus by revealing the profound spiritual weight given to everyday integrity.

In ancient Israelite society, without modern banking systems, entrusting valuables (תְּשׂוּמֶת) to a neighbor or craftsman was a common practice. This deposit created a solemn social and legal bond. The law in Leviticus addresses a realistic scenario where verbal agreements were the norm, and proof of deceit could be difficult. The required restitution (the principal plus a fifth) served both as a penalty and a public deterrent, reinforcing community trust, which was essential for social stability.

עֲרֻבָּה (ʿǎrubbâ, H6162) — a pledge or security, often for a debt. תְּשׂוּמֶת is a deposit for safekeeping, while עֲרֻבָּה is typically collateral for a loan. פִּקָּדוֹן (piqqādôn, H6488) — a more general term for something entrusted or a deposit, used in similar legal contexts (e.g., Exodus 22:7).

Word Details

Scripture References