Lexical Summary agil: Ring, Circle Original Word: עָגִיל Strong's Exhaustive Concordance earring From the same as agol; something round, i.e. A ring (for the ears) -- earring. see HEBREW agol NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom the same as egel Definition a hoop, ring NASB Translation earrings (2). Brown-Driver-Briggs עָגִיל noun [masculine] hoop, ring; — absolute ׳ע Numbers 31:50 probably ear-ring ( + טַבַּעַת, etc.); plural עֲגִילִים עַלֿ אָזְנָ֑יִךְ Ezekiel 16:12 (+ נֶזֶן עַלאַֿפֵךְ nose-ring). Topical Lexicon Definition and Physical Form The Hebrew term עָגִיל denotes a small, circular ornament—typically a ring worn in the nose or ear. Fashioned from precious metal, it was both decorative and symbolic, marking status, covenant, or affection. Background in Ancient Near Eastern Ornamentation Rings for the face and ears were common across the Ancient Near East. They served as bridal gifts, signs of wealth, and even tokens of allegiance. In patriarchal cultures, the giving of such jewelry could seal agreements (compare Genesis 24:22) or celebrate victory. Because gold was durable and easily worked into circles, the עָגִיל became a portable store of value as well as adornment. Biblical Occurrences • Numbers 31:50 lists עָגִיל among items Israelite soldiers presented to the LORD after defeating Midian: “armlets, bracelets, rings, earrings, and necklaces.” Their free-will offering acknowledged that every triumph—and every treasure—belonged first to God. Theological Themes and Symbolism Adornment and Devotion: While jewelry may honor God (Numbers 31) or picture His favor (Ezekiel 16), Scripture also cautions against trusting outward beauty (Proverbs 31:30) or letting riches displace righteousness (Exodus 32:2–4). Covenant Imagery: The circular form of the עָגִיל evokes continuity and completeness. Placed on the bride (Jerusalem), it prefigures the everlasting covenant fulfilled in Christ (Hebrews 13:20). Purity versus Pride: The same object that glorifies God can become an idol when severed from obedience. Hosea 2:13 warns that ornaments once devoted to the LORD were later used for Baal, underscoring the heart’s centrality. Practical Ministry Reflections 1. Stewardship of Possessions: Like the warriors of Numbers 31, believers today are encouraged to dedicate material gain to the Lord’s service (2 Corinthians 9:7). Related Terms and Concepts • נֶזֶם (nezem) – a general term for nose-ring or earring. Summary Though appearing only twice, עָגִיל bridges battlefield gratitude and bridal glory, teaching that all treasure finds its highest purpose when returned to the Giver and that true beauty arises from a covenant relationship with Him who adorns His people with salvation (Isaiah 61:10). Forms and Transliterations וַעֲגִילִ֖ים ועגילים עָגִ֣יל עגיל ‘ā·ḡîl ‘āḡîl aGil vaagiLim wa‘ăḡîlîm wa·‘ă·ḡî·lîmLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel TextsEnglishman's Concordance Numbers 31:50 HEB: וְצָמִ֔יד טַבַּ֖עַת עָגִ֣יל וְכוּמָ֑ז לְכַפֵּ֥ר NAS: signet rings, earrings and necklaces, KJV: rings, earrings, and tablets, INT: and bracelets signet earrings and necklaces to make Ezekiel 16:12 2 Occurrences |
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