### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **kᵉbîyr**, represented by `{{H3523}}`, refers to a **pillow** or matrass. Its definition, stemming from a root meaning "to plait," suggests an object made of intertwined materials. It appears only **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, with both instances occurring within the same narrative.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Both occurrences of `{{H3523}}` are found in the account of Michal `{{H4324}}` saving David from messengers `{{H4397}}` sent by her father, Saul. To create a diversion, Michal took `{{H3947}}` an image `{{H8655}}` and placed `{{H7760}}` it in a bed `{{H4296}}`. She then put a **pillow** `{{H3523}}` of goats' `{{H5795}}` hair at its head for a bolster `{{H4763}}` and covered `{{H3680}}` the entire setup with a cloth `{{H899}}` [[1 Samuel 19:13]]. When the messengers came in `{{H935}}` to seize David, they discovered the ruse, finding only the image in the bed with the **pillow** of goats' hair [[1 Samuel 19:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illuminate the context of this scene:
* `{{H4296}}` **miṭṭâh** (bed): This word for a **bed** or couch provides the setting for the deception. It is where one sleeps or eats [[Ezekiel 23:41]], but it can also be a place of sorrow [[Psalms 6:6]] or scheming [[1 Kings 21:4]].
* `{{H4763}}` **mᵉraʼăshâh** (bolster): Used in direct connection with **kᵉbîyr**, this word denotes a **headpiece** or pillow. It is the same word used to describe the stone Jacob `{{H3290}}` used for his pillows `{{H4763}}` [[Genesis 28:11]] and the place where King Saul's spear was stuck while he slept [[1 Samuel 26:7]].
* `{{H8655}}` **tᵉrâphîym** (image): These were family **idols** or images. Michal used one in her ruse, and Rachel `{{H7354}}` is recorded as having stolen `{{H1589}}` her father's images `{{H8655}}` [[Genesis 31:19]]. Scripture elsewhere connects them to idolatry [[1 Samuel 15:23]] and false divination [[Zechariah 10:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3523}}` is understood through its unique context rather than its definition alone.
* **An Instrument of Deception:** The **pillow** is exclusively used as a prop to make a household idol `{{H8655}}` appear as a sleeping person. It is central to the deception Michal `{{H4324}}` used to preserve David's life from Saul's messengers `{{H4397}}` [[1 Samuel 19:13]].
* **A Physical Covering:** The ruse involved Michal using a cloth `{{H899}}` to cover `{{H3680}}` the image and pillow. The related verb **kâçâh** `{{H3680}}` is used figuratively to describe God covering sin [[Psalms 32:1]] or darkness covering the earth [[Isaiah 60:2]], drawing a distinction between a physical, deceptive covering and a spiritual, redemptive one.
* **Association with Household Idols:** The use of `{{H3523}}` is inextricably linked to a **teraphim** `{{H8655}}`. While this idol was used to save the LORD's anointed, **teraphim** are elsewhere condemned as part of idolatry, which is equated with rebellion against God [[1 Samuel 15:23]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3523}}` **kᵉbîyr** is a very specific term for a pillow, likely woven from goat hair. Its biblical importance is not inherent in the object itself but is derived entirely from its singular role in the narrative of David's escape. It functions as a key component in a deception orchestrated by Michal, illustrating how a common household item can become pivotal in a moment of conflict and deliverance. The context links this simple object to broader themes of deception, covering, and the complex use of a household idol `{{H8655}}`.
TRV