### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Chôphesh**, represented by `{{H2667}}`, is a highly specific term translated as **precious**. Its base definition suggests something spread loosely, like a carpet. It appears only **1 time** in the entire Bible, in **1 unique verse**, making it a very rare word used to describe a valuable trade good.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical use of `{{H2667}}` occurs within a prophecy against the city of Tyre in Ezekiel. In this context, the prophet lists the various nations that contributed to Tyre's immense wealth and splendor. The verse states, "Dedan was thy merchant in **precious** clothes for chariots" [[Ezekiel 27:20]]. Here, **Chôphesh** describes luxurious cloths used specifically for adorning chariots, highlighting the opulence and commercial power of Tyre.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context help clarify its meaning and setting:
* `{{H1719}}` **Dᵉdân**: This name refers to a people and their territory, identified as merchants who traded with Tyre [[Ezekiel 27:20]]. They are noted elsewhere for their commercial activities [[Ezekiel 27:15]].
* `{{H7402}}` **râkal**: Defined as a merchant, this word identifies the role of Dedan in the transaction. The term is used repeatedly throughout Ezekiel 27 to describe the traders who enriched Tyre ([[Ezekiel 27:15]], [[Ezekiel 27:22]]).
* `{{H899}}` **beged**: Meaning a garment or cloth, this is the object being described as "precious" `{{H2667}}`. These were not personal clothing but special cloths for chariots.
* `{{H7396}}` **rikbâh**: This word for **chariots** specifies the purpose of the "precious clothes," indicating they were coverings or decorations for these vehicles, a sign of wealth and military pride.
### Theological Significance
While `{{H2667}}` itself is not a primary theological term, its context provides significant thematic weight.
* **Pride and Materialism:** The term appears in a list of luxury goods that fueled the pride of Tyre, which ultimately led to its judgment. The "precious" nature of the item is part of a larger critique of worldly wealth and arrogance.
* **Transient vs. Eternal Value:** The "precious clothes" (`{{H2667}}`, `{{H899}}`) for chariots stand in stark contrast to the symbolic use of garments in other prophetic texts. While Tyre values material coverings, passages like [[Isaiah 61:10]] speak of the far greater value of the "garments of salvation," and [[Joel 2:13]] calls for a rending of the heart, not of physical garments.
* **The Futility of Earthly Splendor:** The context of Tyre's fall underscores the temporary nature of its "precious" goods. The related word for garment `{{H899}}` is used in [[Isaiah 51:6]] to describe how the heavens and earth will wear out, emphasizing the impermanence of all material things compared to God's salvation.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2667}}` **Chôphesh** is a rare term whose meaning is fixed to its singular context in [[Ezekiel 27:20]]. It denotes valuable, decorative cloths for chariots, symbolizing the immense wealth of the ancient city of Tyre. Though a simple descriptor, its placement within a prophecy of judgment serves as a powerful illustration of the biblical theme that places spiritual worth far above transient material riches.
TRV