אָסוּךְ

אָסוּךְ

anointed, i.e. an oil-flask

Definition

The Hebrew noun אָסוּךְ refers to a small container or flask used for holding oil. In its sole biblical occurrence, it describes the vessel belonging to a poor widow in 2 Kings 4:2, which contained only a small amount of olive oil. The word is derived from the root meaning 'to anoint,' indicating its primary function was likely for storing anointing oil or oil for daily use. While often glossed simply as 'pot' or 'jar,' its specific association with oil suggests a specialized container rather than a general-purpose vessel.

Biblical Usage

This word appears only once in the Old Testament, in 2 Kings 4:2, within the story of Elisha and the widow. The context involves a miraculous multiplication of oil, where the widow's single 'jar of oil' becomes the means God uses to provide for her family and pay her debts. The word is used specifically for a household container of oil, emphasizing both the woman's poverty and the vessel's role in God's provision through the prophet.

Etymology

אָסוּךְ comes from the root סוּךְ (sûk, H5480), meaning 'to anoint, to pour out, to smear.' This root is used for the ritual anointing of priests, kings, and objects (e.g., Exodus 30:26), as well as for common acts like applying oil to the body. The noun form אָסוּךְ literally means 'an anointing vessel' or 'something used for anointing,' directly linking the container to its contents and purpose.

Semantic Range

Though a simple object, the 'jar of oil' in 2 Kings 4:2 becomes a powerful symbol of God's provision and miraculous intervention. The story highlights how God uses ordinary, even meager, items in the hands of faithful people to bring about extraordinary results. Understanding this word as a specialized oil flask, connected to the act of anointing, enriches the narrative by reminding readers that the oil itself was a valuable commodity and a symbol of blessing, consecration, and the Holy Spirit's work in the Old Testament. In ancient Israel, oil (typically olive oil) was a vital commodity used for cooking, lighting, medicine, and religious rituals. Small flasks like the אָסוּךְ were common household items for storing precious oil. The widow's possession of only one such jar, and it being nearly empty, vividly illustrated her desperate poverty, as oil was essential for daily survival. The vessel's role in the miracle would have resonated with an ancient audience familiar with both the practical value of oil and its symbolic association with God's favor. צַפַּחַת (tsappachath, H6835) — a cruse or flask for oil or water, often larger; פַּךְ (pakh, H6378) — a vial or flask, often for precious ointment.

Word Details