from טָפַח; a spread of the hand, i.e. a palm-breadth (not 'span' of the fingers); architecturally, a corbel (as a supporting palm); coping, hand-breadth.
Transliteration:ṭêphach
Pronunciation:tay'-fakh
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term ṭêphach (`{{H2947}}`) derives from the root ṭāphach, which conveys the idea of spreading or extending. Its primary meaning is a "palm-breadth" or "hand-breadth," referring specifically to the width of the open hand. This is distinct from a "span" (zērēt, `{{H2239}}`), which measures from the tip of the thumb to the tip of the little finger when the hand is fully extended. As a unit of measurement, ṭêphach represents a small, precise linear dimension, typically understood as one-sixth of a cubit or four finger-breadths. Beyond its use as a measure, the word also carries architectural connotations, referring to a "corbel" (a projecting support resembling a hand) or "coping" (the top course of a wall), likely due to its dimensional association or structural function.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ṭêphach (`{{H2947}}`) appears in several key biblical passages, primarily within the context of sacred construction and divine specifications:
* **Exodus 25:25 and Exodus 37:12:** In these verses, ṭêphach describes the "border" or "rim" of the Table of Showbread as being a "hand-breadth" wide. This detail emphasizes the meticulous precision required in the construction of the Tabernacle's furnishings, highlighting the divine standard for holiness and order in worship. The exact measurement ensures the table's conformity to God's blueprint.
* **1 Kings 7:26 and 2 Chronicles 4:5:** Here, ṭêphach is used to specify the thickness of the "Molten Sea," a massive bronze basin in Solomon's Temple. Its thickness is described as a "hand-breadth," underscoring the immense scale, durability, and substantial nature of this significant temple furnishing. The measurement conveys the solidity and divine grandeur of the temple's components.
* **Ezekiel 40:43:** Within Ezekiel's detailed vision of the future temple, ṭêphach appears in a more architectural sense, referring to "double hand-breadth" or "double coping" for the ledges or projections within the temple structure. This passage is rich in architectural detail and symbolism, where every dimension contributes to the overall picture of divine order and perfection. The "double hand-breadth" suggests a wider projection or a more substantial support, reinforcing the meaning of corbel or coping in this context.
Across these occurrences, ṭêphach consistently points to the precision and exactitude demanded by God in the construction of His dwelling places, whether Tabernacle, Temple, or visionary Temple.
### Related Words & Concepts
ṭêphach (`{{H2947}}`) is part of a system of biblical linear measurements, each with specific applications:
* **Cubit (אמה, ammah, `{{H520}}`):** The forearm length, typically around 18-21 inches, serving as a primary unit for larger dimensions.
* **Span (זרת, zērēt, `{{H2239}}`):** The distance from the thumb to the little finger when extended, roughly half a cubit.
* **Finger-breadth (אצבע, ʾeṣbaʿ, `{{H676}}`):** The smallest unit, typically one-fourth of a hand-breadth.
ṭêphach fits precisely within this system, often considered one-sixth of a cubit or four finger-breadths.
Conceptually, ṭêphach is closely related to:
* **Architectural Terminology:** Words for structural elements like rims, ledges, supports, and coping, all of which require precise measurement in construction.
* **Divine Precision:** The recurring theme of exact measurements in the Tabernacle and Temple accounts (Exodus, 1 Kings, Ezekiel) links ṭêphach to the overarching concept of God's meticulous design, His demand for order, and the importance of adhering to His divine commands in all matters, especially those pertaining to sacred space and worship.
### Theological Significance
The consistent use of ṭêphach (`{{H2947}}`) in specifying dimensions for sacred objects and structures carries profound theological significance.
* **Divine Precision and Holiness:** The meticulous detail, down to a "hand-breadth," in the divine instructions for the Tabernacle and Temple underscores God's absolute demand for precision in all matters related to His worship and dwelling. This precision is a reflection of His perfect nature and the holiness required in approaching Him. It signifies that God is not haphazard but a God of order, and His sacred spaces must reflect that order.
* **Symbolism of Measurement:** In biblical thought, measurements often transcend mere practicality, carrying symbolic weight that points to divine order, completeness, and the fulfillment of God's purposes. Even a small unit like ṭêphach contributes to the overall picture of a perfectly designed, divinely ordained structure, which serves as a tangible representation of God's presence and character.
* **God's Attention to Detail:** The fact that God specifies measurements down to such a small unit reveals His profound attention to detail and His sovereign control over all aspects of creation and redemption. It teaches humanity the importance of reverence for His commands and the necessity of faithfulness and exactitude in even the seemingly smallest aspects of obedience and service. It demonstrates that nothing in God's plan is arbitrary or insignificant.
### Summary
The Hebrew word ṭêphach (`{{H2947}}`) denotes a "hand-breadth" or "palm-breadth," serving as a precise linear unit of measurement. Its architectural usage extends to terms like "corbel" or "coping." Biblically, ṭêphach is consistently employed in divine specifications for sacred structures: the rim of the Table of Showbread ([[Exodus 25:25]], [[Exodus 37:12]]), the thickness of the Molten Sea ([[1 Kings 7:26]], [[2 Chronicles 4:5]]), and ledges in Ezekiel's visionary temple ([[Ezekiel 40:43]]). This repeated usage underscores God's demand for meticulous precision and exact adherence to His divine blueprints in matters of worship and sacred space. The small, yet exact, measurement of a ṭêphach highlights the theological significance of divine order, holiness, and God's sovereign attention to every detail in His creation and redemptive plan. It serves as a profound reminder of the reverence and exactitude required in all aspects of serving the Holy One.
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