אֵטוּן (e.tun)
e.tun
fine linen
H:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-M
Word Overview
The Hebrew word etun refers to fine linen, yarn, or thread. It appears only once in the Old Testament, in Proverbs 7:16. In this verse, it describes the bedclothes spread by the seductive woman who entices the young man away from his wife.
Its meaning centers on the material itself rather than a specific garment. The sources identify it as thread or yarn, highlighting the quality of the textile. This detail underscores the luxury and allure present in the scene, contrasting sharply with the wisdom literature’s usual warnings against folly.
The rarity of the term makes its single occurrence significant. It serves as a concrete image of temptation through material beauty. Translators often render it as "fine linen" to convey the value and sensory appeal intended by the original author.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word etun appears only once in Scripture, found in Proverbs 7:16. Here it describes the fine linen or yarn spread on a bed by a woman who seeks to lure a young man away from his wife. The text highlights the luxury and sensory appeal of this material, using it as a concrete symbol of temptation.
This single occurrence reminds us that beauty and comfort can be twisted into tools for deception. When we encounter allure in our lives, we are called to discern whether it draws us toward wisdom or leads us into folly. The contrast between genuine safety and seductive danger is sharp here.
May you find strength in seeking truth over temporary pleasure. Let your heart remain fixed on what is lasting and good, rather than being swayed by superficial charm.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- linen of1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- אֵט֥וּן1×
Key Verses
-
Proverbs 7:16
I have spread my couch with carpets of tapestry, with striped cloths of the yarn of Egypt.
The word describes the striped yarn of Egypt spread on a bed, serving as a tangible symbol of seductive allure in this warning against infidelity.