### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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