### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **bᵉrôwm**, represented by `{{H1264}}`, refers to **rich apparel**. The term, which is likely of foreign origin, describes damask or other valuable fabrics made of variegated thread. It appears only **1 time** in the Bible, within a single verse, highlighting its specific use in the context of valuable, traded goods.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H1264}}` is in [[Ezekiel 27:24]], within a detailed prophecy against the commercial city-state of Tyre. The verse describes merchants trading in a variety of luxury items, including "chests of **rich apparel**." This context places the term squarely in a list of high-value merchandise, alongside "blue clothes" `{{H1545}}`, "broidered work" `{{H7553}}`, and items made of cedar `{{H729}}`. The fact that this apparel was stored in chests `{{H1595}}` further underscores its worth as a treasured and transportable commodity.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from the passage in Ezekiel 27 help to build the context of luxury and international trade:
* `{{H7402}}` **râkal** (to travel for trading; (spice) merchant): This word establishes the setting, identifying the key figures in Tyre's economy. The prophecy lists merchants from numerous lands, such as Sheba, Asshur, and Judah [[Ezekiel 27:22-23]].
* `{{H7553}}` **riqmâh** (variegation of color; specifically, embroidery; broidered (work)): Mentioned alongside `{{H1264}}`, this term for elaborate needlework also denotes luxury textiles. It is used to describe beautiful clothing given to Jerusalem [[Ezekiel 16:10]] and the raiment of royalty [[Psalms 45:14]].
* `{{H8504}}` **tᵉkêleth** (blue): This term for a specific, valuable violet or blue dye is another luxury good listed in the context of Tyre's trade. This color was highly prized and used for both sacred items in the tabernacle [[Exodus 26:1]] and royal apparel [[Esther 8:15]].
* `{{H1595}}` **genez** (treasure; by implication, a coffer; chest, treasury): This word for a chest or treasury is the container for the "rich apparel" in Tyre. Its use elsewhere for the king's treasuries reinforces the idea of stored wealth [[Esther 3:9]].
### Theological Significance
While not a central theological term, the significance of `{{H1264}}` is derived entirely from its powerful context:
* **Symbol of Worldly Wealth:** The term is part of a vast inventory of goods that signifies the immense material prosperity and global reach of Tyre, showcasing the peak of human commercial enterprise [[Ezekiel 27:24]].
* **Object of Divine Judgment:** The entire chapter is a lament over Tyre's impending doom. The "rich apparel" and other treasures are listed as the foundation of the city's pride, which ultimately invites judgment from God.
* **Illustration of Global Commerce:** The passage details an extensive trade network. The inclusion of fine textiles like `{{H1264}}` illustrates the material interconnectedness of the ancient world and serves as a caution against placing ultimate trust in such systems.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1264}}` is a highly specific term for **rich apparel** that appears once in Scripture. Its importance is not in its frequency but in its singular, vivid context within the prophecy against Tyre. It functions as a powerful symbol of the worldly wealth, luxury, and prideful commerce that, when detached from divine honor, leads to ruin. The word and its surrounding inventory serve as a biblical illustration of the temporary nature of material glory.
TRV