The Hebrew word yâʻaṭ, represented by H3271, is a primitive root meaning to clothe or cover. It is a very rare term, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible. Its significance is derived entirely from this single, powerful instance.
The sole appearance of H3271 is in Isaiah 61:10, a passage of profound joy and thanksgiving. The speaker declares that God "hath covered me with the robe of righteousness." This action is presented alongside being "clothed... with the garments of salvation." The context likens this divine act to a bridegroom decking himself with ornaments and a bride adorning herself with jewels, highlighting the beauty and honor of being covered by God.
Several related words in the same passage illuminate the theme of being divinely adorned and the joy it produces:
- H3847 lâbash (to put on a garment or clothe): This word is used in parallel with yâʻaṭ in Isaiah 61:10, where God has "clothed" the speaker with salvation. It also describes God clothing Himself with majesty and strength Psalms 93:1 or Zion putting on beautiful garments Isaiah 52:1.
- H5710 ʻâdâh (to bedeck... adorn, deck (self)): This term is used in the simile immediately following the use of yâʻaṭ, describing how a bride "adorneth" herself with her jewels Isaiah 61:10. It emphasizes the beauty and intentionality of the covering.
- H1523 gîyl (to... rejoice... be joyful): This word expresses the emotional response to being clothed and covered by God. The speaker's soul is described as "joyful" in God precisely because of these acts of salvation and righteousness Isaiah 61:10.
The theological weight of H3271 is concentrated in its single usage, which establishes several key concepts:
- A Gift of Righteousness: The word is used metaphorically to describe a spiritual reality. The "covering" is not a physical garment but "the robe of righteousness" provided by God Isaiah 61:10.
- An Element of Salvation: The act of being covered by God is intrinsically linked to His work of salvation. It is one of the blessings, along with the "garments of salvation," that God bestows upon the faithful Isaiah 61:10.
- A Source of Great Joy: This divine covering is the direct cause of the speaker's rejoicing. The passage begins with the declaration, "I will greatly rejoice... my soul shall be joyful," which is then explained by God's provision of these spiritual garments Isaiah 61:10.
In summary, while H3271 is an exceptionally rare word, its singular context in Isaiah 61:10 makes it deeply significant. It moves beyond the literal meaning of "cover" to represent the profound spiritual act of God bestowing righteousness upon a person. This covering is presented as a beautiful, honorable adornment, a key component of salvation that serves as a powerful reason for rejoicing in God.
TRV