תִּירוֹשׁ

must or fresh grape-juice (as just squeezed out); by implication (rarely) fermented wine

Definition

The Hebrew noun תִּירוֹשׁ (tîyrôsh) primarily refers to freshly pressed grape juice, or 'must,' which is the unfermented juice immediately after the grapes are crushed. In most biblical contexts, it denotes this sweet, new wine before fermentation, often listed alongside grain and oil as a staple agricultural product (e.g., Deuteronomy 7:13, 11:14). However, in a few instances, the term can imply a fermented product, as it is sometimes grouped with intoxicating drinks (e.g., Proverbs 3:10, where it is parallel to wine [יַיִן]). The word consistently represents a valuable blessing from God's provision, whether as a fresh drink or a stored commodity.

Biblical Usage

תִּירוֹשׁ appears 38 times in the Old Testament, predominantly in the Pentateuch (especially Deuteronomy) and the Prophets. It is almost always used in lists of agricultural blessings, paired with grain (דָּגָן) and oil (יִצְהָר), signifying God's material provision for obedience (Deuteronomy 7:13, 11:14). It is also mentioned in cultic contexts as a tithe offering (Numbers 18:12, Deuteronomy 12:17). The usage pattern emphasizes its role as a staple produce of the land, a symbol of abundance and covenantal blessing.

Etymology

Derived from the root יָרַשׁ (yārash, H3423), which means 'to take possession of' or 'to dispossess.' The connection likely comes from the idea of 'expelling' or 'squeezing out' the juice from the grape. Cognates in other Semitic languages also relate to wine or grape juice, confirming its association with viticulture.

Semantic Range

תִּירוֹשׁ is theologically significant as a tangible sign of God's covenantal blessings. When God promises to bless His people, תִּירוֹשׁ is frequently listed among the material goods (Deuteronomy 7:13, 11:14), representing prosperity, joy, and divine favor. Its inclusion in tithes (Numbers 18:12, Deuteronomy 12:17) also marks it as a holy offering, a portion returned to God from His provision. Understanding it as typically unfermented juice enriches readings of passages about abundance and purity, distinguishing it from the more common word for fermented wine (יַיִן).

In ancient Israelite culture, תִּירוֹשׁ was a vital agricultural product. Fresh grape juice (must) was consumed soon after harvest and could also be preserved or allowed to ferment into wine. Its consistent pairing with grain and oil in biblical texts reflects its status as one of the three core staples of the Israelite diet and economy. This differs from a modern understanding where 'wine' typically assumes a fermented beverage; תִּירוֹשׁ specifically highlights the initial, sweet product of the vineyard.

יַיִן (yayin, H3196) — The common Hebrew word for (usually fermented) wine; תִּירוֹשׁ is often its unfermented counterpart. עָסִיס (ʿāsîs, H6071) — Sweet wine or freshly pressed juice, similar to תִּירוֹשׁ but sometimes emphasizing sweetness.

Word Details

Scripture References