### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **châphâh**, represented by `{{H2645}}`, is a primitive root that means **to cover**. It appears **12 times** across **10 unique verses** in the Bible. Its application extends beyond simple covering to include concepts such as to veil, to encase, to protect, and to `ceil` or `overlay` a surface.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H2645}}` is used in two distinct ways. It describes the physical act of covering one's `head` or `face` as an expression of grief, shame, or impending judgment. This is seen when `David` ascends Mount Olivet weeping with his `head` **covered** [[2 Samuel 15:30]], and when `Haman` hastens home in `mourning` with his `head` **covered** [[Esther 6:12]]. In a different context, the word signifies the architectural act of `overlaying` or `ceiling`. During the construction of the temple, the `greater house` was **cieled** with `fir tree` and **overlaid** with `fine gold` [[2 Chronicles 3:5]], and its `beams`, `posts`, and `walls` were also **overlaid** with `gold` [[2 Chronicles 3:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the contexts in which **châphâh** appears:
* `{{H7218}}` **rôʼsh** (head): This is the part of the body most often **covered** `{{H2645}}` in displays of shame or grief [[2 Samuel 15:30]]. Figuratively, it can also refer to a `chief` position or rank, as when God is described as exalted as **head** above all [[1 Chronicles 29:11]].
* `{{H1004}}` **bayith** (house): This term for a `house` or `family` is the primary subject of being **overlaid** `{{H2645}}` in the temple accounts [[2 Chronicles 3:7]]. Its meaning extends from a physical structure to a family unit, as declared by Joshua: "as for me and my **house**, we will serve the LORD" [[Joshua 24:15]].
* `{{H2091}}` **zâhâb** (gold): The precious metal used to **overlay** `{{H2645}}` the temple's interior [[2 Chronicles 3:8]]. Beyond its literal value, **gold** is used figuratively to represent something purified by trial, as in the declaration, "when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as **gold**" [[Job 23:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2645}}` is revealed in its contrasting applications of covering for shame and covering for glory.
* **Symbol of Grief and Judgment:** Covering the `head` or `face` serves as a potent, visible symbol of human sorrow, shame, or divine judgment. This is demonstrated in the actions of `David` fleeing his rebellious son [[2 Samuel 15:30]] and the covering of `Haman's` `face` as a sign of his condemnation by the `king` [[Esther 7:8]].
* **Act of Consecration:** The use of **châphâh** to describe `overlaying` with `gold` signifies an act of sanctification, setting apart a place for a holy purpose. The `most holy house` in the temple was **overlaid** with `fine gold`, consecrating it for the presence of God [[2 Chronicles 3:8]].
* **Promise of Divine Restoration:** In a poetic sense, the word illustrates God's power to transform. The promise that those who have `lien among the pots` will be like a `dove` **covered** with `silver` and `gold` points to a future restoration from a state of lowliness to one of immense beauty and value [[Psalms 68:13]].
### Summary
In summary, **châphâh** `{{H2645}}` is a versatile word whose meaning is deeply tied to its context. It can represent a covering of profound shame and sorrow, as when a person veils their `head`, or a covering of supreme honor and holiness, as when sacred spaces are `overlaid` with `gold`. Through this single term, scripture illustrates a powerful contrast between the human experience of judgment and the divine act of consecration and glorious restoration.
TRV