### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chăgôwr**, represented by `{{H2290}}`, translates as a **belt**, **apron**, **armour**, or **girdle**. Derived from the root word `חָגַר` (châgar), it describes an item worn around the waist. It appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible, carrying a range of meanings from a simple covering to military equipment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H2290}}` is used in diverse contexts. Its first appearance is in Genesis, where Adam and Eve sewed fig leaves to make themselves **aprons** after realizing they were naked [[Genesis 3:7]]. It is also used to signify military attire or readiness, described as **armour** for the Moabites preparing for battle [[2 Kings 3:21]]. The term can also represent an item of value or status, as when Joab offered a man a **girdle** and ten shekels of silver as a reward [[2 Samuel 18:11]]. Conversely, it features in judgment, with Joab's own **girdle** being stained by the blood of war shed in a time of peace [[1 Kings 2:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and application of `{{H2290}}`:
* `{{H2296}}` **châgar** (to gird on): This is the primitive root from which `{{H2290}}` is derived. It means to gird on an item like a belt or armor, as seen in commands to gird with sackcloth [[Jeremiah 6:26]] or in preparation for the Passover [[Exodus 12:11]].
* `{{H5903}}` **ʻêyrôm** (nudity; naked(-ness)): This word describes the state of **nudity** that prompted the creation of the first aprons `{{H2290}}` in the Bible [[Genesis 3:7]].
* `{{H8242}}` **saq** (sack(-cloth, -clothes)): This coarse cloth for mourning is explicitly linked to `{{H2290}}` in the command to "gird **sackcloth** upon your loins" as a sign of distress and repentance [[Isaiah 32:11]].
* `{{H5364}}` **niqpâh** (rent): In a prophecy of judgment, this word describes what will replace a fine girdle `{{H2290}}`, signifying a reversal of fortune from beauty to ruin [[Isaiah 3:24]].
### Theological Significance
The thematic significance of `{{H2290}}` is tied to its specific use in scripture:
* **Covering for Shame:** Its first use is to create **aprons** to cover nakedness after the fall, directly addressing a newfound sense of shame and vulnerability [[Genesis 3:7]].
* **Military and Status:** The word denotes military equipment, as in the **armour** worn for battle [[2 Kings 3:21]] and the bloodied **girdle** of Joab, a captain of the host [[1 Kings 2:5]]. It is also used as a valuable item offered as a reward [[2 Samuel 18:11]].
* **Symbol of Judgment:** In prophetic warnings, the `{{H2290}}` is connected to judgment and mourning. Isaiah foretells that a beautiful **girdle** will be replaced with a "rent" [[Isaiah 3:24]] and commands the people to strip themselves and gird on sackcloth [[Isaiah 32:11]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2290}}` is a versatile term that signifies more than a simple article of clothing. It serves as the original solution to human nakedness, a functional piece of military gear, a mark of status, and a potent symbol in prophecies of judgment and repentance. From the first aprons in Genesis to the girdles of warriors and the sackcloth of mourners, it consistently relates to the condition and readiness of the person wearing it.
TRV