from חָשַׁב; a belt or strap (as being interlaced); curious girdle.
Transliteration:chêsheb
Pronunciation:khay'-sheb
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word חֵשֶׁב (H2805, *chêsheb*) is a noun derived from the root חָשַׁב (H2803, *ḥāšaḇ*), which means "to think, to reckon, to devise, to plan, to invent." This etymological connection is crucial, as חֵשֶׁב therefore describes something that is "devised," "skillfully made," or "intricately woven." Its primary meaning is a "belt" or "strap," specifically a "curious girdle." The term "curious" in this context does not imply strangeness, but rather meticulous, intricate, or expert craftsmanship. Thus, the semantic range of חֵשֵׁב is narrow and precise, referring to a particular type of girdle distinguished by its elaborate design and skillful construction, often involving interwoven materials.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term חֵשֶׁב (H2805) appears exclusively in the Pentateuch, specifically within the detailed instructions and descriptions of the high priestly garments. Its occurrences are limited to Exodus and Leviticus, always referring to the girdle of the ephod:
* In [[Exodus 28:8]], it is described as the "curious girdle of the ephod, which is upon it, shall be of the same workmanship thereof, even of gold, of blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen." This verse establishes its composition and its integral connection to the ephod.
* [[Exodus 28:27]] and [[Exodus 28:28]] specify how the breastplate is to be attached to the ephod "above the curious girdle of the ephod," indicating its precise placement and functional role in securing the breastplate.
* [[Exodus 29:5]] mentions the חֵשֶׁב as part of the clothing of Aaron during his consecration, highlighting its importance in the investiture ceremony.
* [[Exodus 39:5]], [[Exodus 39:20]], and [[Exodus 39:21]] reiterate the details of its construction and placement during the actual making of the tabernacle furnishings.
* [[Leviticus 8:7]] again notes Moses clothing Aaron with the ephod and binding him with its "curious girdle" during the ordination ritual.
Contextually, the חֵשֶׁב is never depicted as a common belt but always as a highly specialized, intricately crafted item, essential for the proper assembly and wearing of the high priestly ephod and breastplate. Its recurring description alongside precious materials (gold, fine linen) and vibrant colors (blue, purple, scarlet) underscores its sacred and ornate nature. Its function was both practical, holding the garments securely, and symbolic, representing the divine order and human skill consecrated to God.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary conceptual link for חֵשֶׁב (H2805) is its root, חָשַׁב (H2803), meaning "to think, devise, plan." This root emphasizes the intentional, skilled, and thoughtful design inherent in the girdle's creation. Other related terms and concepts include:
* אֵפוֹד (H646, *ʾēp̄ôḏ*): The ephod itself, the primary garment to which the חֵשֶׁב was attached and which it secured.
* חֹשֶׁן (H2833, *ḥōšen*): The breastplate, which was affixed to the ephod *above* the חֵשֶׁב.
* שֵׁשׁ מָשְׁזָר (H8336 H4888): "Fine twined linen," a key material in its construction, indicating high quality.
* זָהָב (H2091): "Gold," another precious material used, signifying value and purity.
* תְּכֵלֶת (H8504), אַרְגָּמָן (H713), תּוֹלַעַת שָׁנִי (H8438 H8144): The blue, purple, and scarlet yarns, which added to its beauty and symbolic significance.
* The concept of divine craftsmanship: The making of the חֵשֶׁב and other tabernacle items was entrusted to skilled artisans like Bezalel (`{{H1212}}`) and Oholiab (`{{H169}}`), highlighting the importance of consecrated human skill in divine service.
* בִּגְדֵי קֹדֶשׁ (H899 H6944): "Holy garments," the broader category of priestly vestments of which the חֵשֶׁב was a part, signifying the priest's consecrated status.
### Theological Significance
The חֵשֶׁב (H2805) holds significant theological weight as an integral component of the high priestly attire.
* **Divine Design and Order:** Its meticulous description and precise placement underscore God's attention to detail and the sacred order established for worship. Every element of the priestly garments, including the חֵשֶׁב, was divinely ordained, reflecting God's perfect plan for mediation and access.
* **Consecrated Skill and Human Dedication:** The term "curious girdle" (from the root "to devise") highlights that the חֵשֶׁב was a product of exceptional human skill and artistry, consecrated entirely to God's service. It symbolizes the offering of humanity's finest abilities in worship, reflecting a principle that the best of creation is due to the Creator.
* **Unity and Security in Service:** Functionally, the חֵשֶׁב bound the ephod and secured the breastplate, which bore the names of the tribes of Israel. Symbolically, it represents the binding together of the priestly office, the divine will, and the people of God, ensuring the integrity and stability of the mediatorial role. It speaks to the secure and ordered nature of God's covenant relationship with His people.
* **Holiness and Separation:** As part of the בִּגְדֵי קֹדֶשׁ, the חֵשֶׁב contributed to setting apart the high priest for his unique and holy service, distinguishing him as consecrated to minister before the Lord on behalf of Israel.
### Summary
The Hebrew word חֵשֶׁב (H2805, *chêsheb*) refers exclusively to the "curious girdle" of the high priestly ephod. Derived from חָשַׁב (H2803, "to devise"), it signifies an intricately and skillfully woven belt, emphasizing its meticulous craftsmanship. Found solely in the Pentateuch, particularly in Exodus and Leviticus, it is consistently described as being made of gold, blue, purple, scarlet, and fine twined linen, highlighting its precious and sacred nature. Contextually, the חֵשֶׁב served the crucial function of securing the ephod and breastplate, ensuring the proper wearing of these vital priestly garments. Theologically, it embodies divine design and order, the consecration of human skill to God's service, and the symbolic unity and security inherent in the high priestly office. It underscores the holiness, precision, and divine authorization of the worship system established for ancient Israel, reflecting God's profound attention to the details of His sacred service.
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