### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term gᵉlôwm (`{{H1545}}`) is derived from the root גָּלַם (gālam - `{{H1544}}`), which carries the primary meaning "to wrap," "to fold," or "to roll up." This etymological connection is crucial for understanding the nuanced semantic range of gᵉlôwm. While its base definition is simply "clothing" or "clothes," the underlying root suggests garments that are draped, folded, or wrapped around the body, rather than precisely tailored. This implies a certain fluidity, layering, or bulkiness in the attire, distinguishing it from other more specific terms for garments. It refers to a general category of outer wear that provides covering and adornment, often in a luxurious context, as indicated by its sole biblical appearance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term gᵉlôwm (`{{H1545}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in the book of Ezekiel:
* **[[Ezekiel 16:13]]**: "Thus you were adorned with gold and silver, and your clothing was of fine linen, silk, and embroidered work; you ate fine flour, honey, and oil; and you became exceedingly beautiful, and prospered into a kingdom."
In this passage, the prophet Ezekiel delivers a powerful allegory describing God's covenant relationship with Jerusalem, personified as a foundling infant whom God raises, adorns, and establishes as a queen. The mention of gᵉlôwm is part of an extensive list of lavish provisions and adornments that God bestows upon Jerusalem. These include precious metals (gold, silver) and luxurious fabrics (fine linen, silk, embroidered work). In this context, gᵉlôwm refers to the sumptuous garments made from these exquisite materials. The singular use here emphasizes the richness and splendor of the attire, signifying God's extravagant grace and provision. The "wrapped" aspect implied by the root might subtly suggest the elegant draping of such costly fabrics. This imagery stands in stark contrast to Jerusalem's initial state of nakedness and abandonment described earlier in the chapter ([[Ezekiel 16:7]]), highlighting the transformative power of God's care.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding gᵉlôwm (`{{H1545}}`) is enhanced by examining its relationship to its root and other biblical terms for clothing and adornment:
* **Root Word:** גָּלָם (gālam - `{{H1544}}`): This verb means "to wrap, fold, or roll up." It directly informs the nature of the gᵉlôwm, suggesting that these clothes were characteristically draped or folded rather than cut and sewn in a modern fashion.
* **General Terms for Clothing:**
* בֶּגֶד (beged - `{{H899}}`): A very common and broad term for "garment" or "clothing."
* שִׂמְלָה (simlah - `{{H8071}}`): Often refers to an outer garment or cloak.
* כְּתֹנֶת (ketonet - `{{H3801}}`): Typically denotes a tunic or inner garment.
gᵉlôwm differs from these in its emphasis on the *wrapped* quality and its singular, luxurious context.
* **Terms for Adornment and Luxury:**
* עֲדִי (adi - `{{H5716}}`): Refers to adornment or ornament, used extensively in [[Ezekiel 16]] alongside gᵉlôwm to describe the lavish decorations bestowed by God.
* The precious materials listed with gᵉlôwm in [[Ezekiel 16:13]] (gold, silver, fine linen, silk, embroidered work) are also crucial related concepts, as they specify the quality and value of the "clothing."
### Theological Significance
Despite its single occurrence, gᵉlôwm (`{{H1545}}`) carries significant theological weight within the powerful allegory of [[Ezekiel 16]].
* **Divine Provision and Grace:** The primary theological significance of gᵉlôwm lies in its role as a symbol of God's lavish provision and unmerited grace. God transforms Jerusalem from a state of abject destitution and shame ("naked and bare" - [[Ezekiel 16:7]]) to one of regal splendor and beauty by adorning her with the finest gᵉlôwm and other ornaments. This act underscores God's generous character and His commitment to His covenant people.
* **Covenant Blessings and Status:** The luxurious gᵉlôwm signifies the blessings and elevated status that come with being in a covenant relationship with God. It represents the honor, dignity, and glory that God bestows upon those whom He chooses and redeems. The clothing is not merely functional but ceremonial, indicative of royal standing.
* **Transformation from Shame to Glory:** The contrast between Jerusalem's initial nakedness and her subsequent adornment with gᵉlôwm powerfully illustrates a recurring biblical theme: God's redemptive work transforms shame into glory. Just as God clothed Adam and Eve after their sin ([[Genesis 3:21]]), here He covers Jerusalem's nakedness, providing beauty and a new identity. This foreshadows the spiritual covering of righteousness and salvation found in later biblical theology.
* **Metaphor for Spiritual Beauty:** In a broader sense, the physical adornment with gᵉlôwm can be seen as a metaphor for the spiritual beauty and righteousness that God imparts to His people. It speaks to the idea that true beauty and worth are derived from God's gracious acts.
### Summary
The Hebrew word gᵉlôwm (`{{H1545}}`), derived from the root gālam (`{{H1544}}`) meaning "to wrap" or "to fold," denotes "clothing" or "garments," with an implicit emphasis on their draped or folded nature. Though appearing only once in the biblical text, its context in [[Ezekiel 16:13]] is profoundly significant. Here, gᵉlôwm describes the luxurious and exquisite attire God bestows upon Jerusalem, symbolizing His abundant provision, unmerited grace, and the lavish blessings of His covenant. It serves as a powerful metaphor for God's transformative work, elevating His people from a state of shame and destitution to one of dignity, beauty, and regal splendor. Thus, gᵉlôwm encapsulates the theological themes of divine covering, honor, and the glory that God imparts to those He chooses and redeems.
TRV