The Hebrew word ʼaddereth, represented by H155, refers to something ample, such as a garment, mantle, or robe. It appears 12 times across 12 unique verses in the Bible. Its meaning extends beyond simple clothing to also signify glory or something goodly, like a large vine.
In the biblical narrative, H155 is most prominently featured as the mantle of the prophet Elijah. This garment symbolizes his divine authority and prophetic office. Elijah casts his mantle upon Elisha to call him to service 1 Kings 19:19, and later uses it to part the waters of the Jordan 2 Kings 2:8. After Elijah's ascension, Elisha takes up the fallen mantle, inheriting his master's spiritual power and role 2 Kings 2:13-14. The word is also used for a "goodly Babylonish garment" that Achan coveted from the spoils of Jericho, an act of disobedience that brought judgment upon Israel Joshua 7:21. In an act of repentance, the king of Nineveh removes his royal robe and covers himself with sackcloth and ashes Jonah 3:6.
Several related words illuminate the contexts in which H155 appears:
- H8181 sêʻâr (hair; rough): This word is used to describe a "rough garment" worn by false prophets to deceive Zechariah 13:4. It is also used to describe Esau's appearance at birth, which was like a "hairy garment" Genesis 25:25.
- H7998 shâlâl (booty; prey, spoil): The coveted Babylonish garment was seen by Achan among the spoils of war Joshua 7:21, linking the object to the prohibitions and temptations associated with military conquest.
- H3678 kiççêʼ (throne): The king of Nineveh's act of humility is emphasized by his rising from his throne before removing his robe H155, connecting the garment to royal status Jonah 3:6.
- H3584 kâchash (deceive): The purpose of the "rough garment" H155 worn by false prophets is explicitly stated to be to deceive others, highlighting how a physical garment can be used for misrepresentation Zechariah 13:4.
- H8242 saq (sackcloth): The king of Nineveh exchanges his royal robe H155 for sackcloth, a coarse material associated with mourning and repentance Jonah 3:6.
The theological weight of H155 is demonstrated through its symbolic uses:
- Symbol of Prophetic Authority: Elijah's mantle is not merely clothing but an emblem of his God-given power. Its transfer to Elisha signifies the continuation of God's work through a chosen successor 2 Kings 2:13-14.
- Object of Sinful Covetousness: The "goodly" garment from Shinar represents a worldly temptation that leads to a violation of God's command. Achan's sin illustrates how the desire for a material object can result in severe spiritual consequences Joshua 7:21.
- An Outward Sign of Inner State: The word is used to show a person's condition. The king of Nineveh lays his robe aside to show humility Jonah 3:6, while false prophets put on a "rough garment" to feign piety Zechariah 13:4.
- Representation of Glory and Value: The term is used figuratively to describe the "glory" of the shepherds that is spoiled Zechariah 11:3 and to describe a fruitful plant as a "goodly vine" Ezekiel 17:8.
In summary, H155 is a multifaceted word that signifies more than just a physical covering. It can represent divine authority, royal status, and inherent value. At the same time, it can be an object of sinful desire or a tool for deception. From the sacred mantle of a prophet to a coveted spoil of war, ʼaddereth illustrates how a physical garment can carry profound spiritual and moral significance.
TRV