Description
Thread or yarn for weaving was made by twisting fibers on a spindle (see Cloth manufacture). A single strand of thread made in this way was not particularly strong, but cloth made by interweaving many of these thin strands together was strong enough for many uses. See also Rope, cord.
Translation
The essential difference between “thread” or “string” and “cord” or “rope” was less in its thickness than in its composition. A rope or cord was made of two or more single strands twisted or braided together. All the occurrences of the Hebrew word pathil are listed here, but in one or two of the passages the translator may consider that a heavier cord is intended.
In EXO 39:3 the Hebrew word pathil is used to refer to fine “threads” (RSV, CEV) or “strands” (NIV) made of gold. Some languages may have a separate word for such a “filament” made of metal.