### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chuppâh**, represented by `{{H2646}}`, carries a dual meaning of a **canopy** and a **defence**. Its base definition also includes "chamber" and "closet." Though it appears only **3 times** in 3 unique verses, its usage points to significant themes of divine protection and marital intimacy.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H2646}}` is applied in both a literal and a figurative sense. In [[Psalms 19:5]], it describes the sun emerging with joy, likened to a **bridegroom** `{{H2860}}` coming out of his **chamber** `{{H2646}}`. Similarly, in a call to solemn assembly, [[Joel 2:16]] commands the **bride** `{{H3618}}` to come out of her **closet** `{{H2646}}`, interrupting a moment of private celebration for a matter of national importance. Figuratively, [[Isaiah 4:5]] uses the term to describe God's promise of protection over his people, stating that over all the **glory** `{{H3519}}` of Zion `{{H6726}}` there will be a **defence** `{{H2646}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the meaning and context of **chuppâh**:
* `{{H2860}}` **châthân** (bridegroom): This word is directly paired with `{{H2646}}` in two of its three appearances. It establishes the marital context, as the **bridegroom** either comes forth from his chamber [[Psalms 19:5]] or is called out of it [[Joel 2:16]].
* `{{H3618}}` **kallâh** (bride): The counterpart to the bridegroom, the **bride** is called from her "closet" `{{H2646}}` in [[Joel 2:16]], reinforcing the imagery of a wedding chamber.
* `{{H2315}}` **cheder** (chamber): Used in parallel with `{{H2646}}` in [[Joel 2:16]], where the bridegroom leaves his **chamber** `{{H2315}}` and the bride her closet `{{H2646}}`. This underscores its meaning as a private, enclosed space.
* `{{H3519}}` **kâbôwd** (glory): In Isaiah, the **defence** `{{H2646}}` is promised to be "upon all the **glory**" of Zion, connecting the idea of a protective covering to the magnificent and holy presence of God [[Isaiah 4:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2646}}` is found in its powerful dual imagery:
* **Divine Protection:** In [[Isaiah 4:5]], the **chuppâh** is a supernaturally **created** `{{H1254}}` shield from God (**Yᵉhôvâh**, `{{H3068}}`). It is described as a **cloud** `{{H6051}}` by day and a **flaming** `{{H3852}}` **fire** `{{H784}}` by night, a direct parallel to God's guiding presence with Israel in the wilderness, signifying His constant and powerful protection over His people.
* **Covenantal Intimacy:** The use of **chuppâh** as a bridal chamber ([[Psalms 19:5]], [[Joel 2:16]]) evokes the joy, intimacy, and sanctity of the marriage covenant. The image of the **bridegroom** `{{H2860}}` rejoicing as he emerges from his chamber symbolizes new beginnings and vibrant strength.
* **A Sacred Covering:** The word bridges the concepts of protection and intimacy. Just as a bridal canopy covers the bride and groom, God's protective presence covers His people. The **defence** over Zion's **glory** `{{H3519}}` can be seen as God's jealous watchcare over His covenant relationship, shielding His treasured possession.
### Summary
In summary, **chuppâh** `{{H2646}}` is a rich term that, despite its infrequent use, encapsulates profound theological truths. It functions as both a bridal **chamber**, symbolizing covenant joy and intimacy, and a divine **defence**, representing God's active, protective presence over His people. Through this single word, the scriptures link the glorious protection of God with the intimate joy of a wedding canopy, illustrating the deep and secure nature of His relationship with those He calls His own.
TRV