The Hebrew word kᵉbûwddâh, represented by H3520, conveys the idea of weightiness, magnificence, and wealth. It appears 3 times in 3 unique verses in the Bible. Its base definition includes concepts like carriage, being all glorious, and stately, indicating its use to describe significant value, whether in status, appearance, or possessions.
In its biblical appearances, H3520 is applied in distinct ways. It describes the inner quality of a royal figure, stating, "The king's daughter is all glorious within" Psalms 45:13. In contrast, it is used in Judges to denote moveable wealth, where the Danites placed their little ones, cattle, and carriage before them as they departed Judges 18:21. In Ezekiel, it characterizes an object of lavish, idolatrous comfort, a "stately bed" prepared with a table, incense, and oil Ezekiel 23:41.
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which H3520 is found:
- H1323 bath (daughter): This term for a female child is used literally and figuratively. The "king's daughter" is the subject described as "all glorious" H3520 Psalms 45:13.
- H4735 miqneh (cattle): Defined as livestock or property, this word appears alongside "carriage" H3520 in Judges 18:21, emphasizing the meaning of moveable wealth and possessions.
- H4296 miṭṭâh (bed): This word for a bed or sofa is the object described as "stately" H3520 in the scene of extravagant worship depicted in Ezekiel 23:41.
- H2091 zâhâb (gold): Representing precious metal and wealth, gold is a key element in the description of the "glorious" king's daughter, whose clothing is made of it Psalms 45:13.
The meaning of H3520 is understood through its specific applications:
- Royal Magnificence: The word is used to describe the honorable state of the "king's daughter," who is "all glorious" H3520 within and whose clothing is of "wrought gold" H2091 Psalms 45:13. This links the term to high status and intrinsic value.
- Tangible Wealth: In Judges 18:21, H3520 is translated as "carriage," listed with "little ones" H2945 and "cattle" H4735 as part of a family's possessions being moved. This highlights a physical and practical meaning of substance and wealth.
- Sumptuous Display: The term describes a "stately bed" H4296 in a setting of illicit luxury, where a table is prepared with God's incense and oil Ezekiel 23:41. This usage connects the idea of magnificence to a display of worldly and even sinful extravagance.
In summary, H3520 encapsulates a concept of "weightiness" that can be expressed in multiple forms. It can refer to the internal, glorious quality of a person of high rank, the physical carriage of a family's wealth, or the stately appearance of luxurious items. Though rare, its usage provides a specific lens through which to view honor, possessions, and splendor in the biblical narrative.
TRV