from כָּבַשׁ; a footstool (as trodden upon); footstool.
Transliteration:kebesh
Pronunciation:keh'-besh
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma כֶּבֶשׁ (kebesh - `{{H3534}}`) is a noun derived from the verb כָּבַשׁ (kabash - `{{H3533}}`), which carries the core meaning "to tread down," "to subdue," or "to bring into subjection." This etymological connection is crucial for understanding the nuance of כֶּבֶשׁ. As a noun, כֶּבֶשׁ refers to a "footstool," an object specifically designed to be trodden upon or to support the feet. Its semantic range is quite narrow, exclusively denoting this piece of furniture. The underlying sense of being "underfoot" or "subdued" remains implicit in its very nature, even when used in a context of royal comfort.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word כֶּבֶשׁ (kebesh - `{{H3534}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, found in the book of Chronicles:
* [[2 Chronicles 9:18]]: "And there were six steps to the throne, with a footstool of gold attached to the throne, and arms on either side of the seat, and two lions standing beside the arms."
In this singular occurrence, כֶּבֶשׁ describes a literal, physical object that was an integral part of King Solomon's magnificent throne. The context emphasizes the unparalleled grandeur and opulence of Solomon's reign, highlighting the throne's construction from ivory overlaid with pure gold, complete with a golden footstool. The footstool, far from being a mere utilitarian item, contributes to the overall impression of royal majesty, wealth, and the exalted status of the king. While its root implies "treading down," in this specific context, it signifies the king's elevated position, with his feet resting upon this precious object, rather than an act of subjugation *by* the footstool itself. It is a symbol of royal comfort and dignity, fitting for a monarch of such immense power and glory.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most significant related word is the verb from which כֶּבֶשׁ is derived:
* כָּבַשׁ (kabash - `{{H3533}}`): "to tread down," "subdue," "bring into bondage," "enslave." This verb is foundational, appearing in key theological passages such as the creation mandate in [[Genesis 1:28]], where humanity is commanded to "subdue" the earth. It also describes the subjugation of land ([[Numbers 32:22]]) or people ([[Jeremiah 34:16]]). The physical act of placing one's foot upon something or someone is a potent symbol of authority, conquest, and dominion.
Another important related term is the more common Hebrew word for "footstool":
* הֲדֹם (hadom - `{{H1916}}`): This word appears more frequently and carries significant metaphorical and theological weight in the Old Testament. Unlike כֶּבֶשׁ, which is a specific, literal royal footstool, הֲדֹם is often used metaphorically to describe God's footstool (the earth or the temple, e.g., [[Isaiah 66:1]], [[Lamentations 2:1]]) or, most notably, the subjugation of enemies under a king's feet (e.g., [[Psalm 110:1]]). The concept of enemies being made a "footstool" aligns perfectly with the "treading down" sense of כָּבַשׁ (kabash - `{{H3533}}`), even though כֶּבֶשׁ itself is not used in such metaphorical contexts.
### Theological Significance
The direct theological significance of כֶּבֶשׁ (kebesh - `{{H3534}}`) is limited by its singular occurrence as a descriptive element of Solomon's throne. It primarily serves to underscore the earthly king's unparalleled glory and majesty, a reflection of the divine favor bestowed upon him. However, its etymological root, כָּבַשׁ (kabash - `{{H3533}}`), carries profound theological implications. The command to "subdue" the earth in [[Genesis 1:28]] establishes humanity's God-given dominion over creation, reflecting God's own sovereignty.
While כֶּבֶשׁ itself does not participate in the rich metaphorical usage of "footstool" found elsewhere, it subtly points to the broader biblical theme of dominion. The concept of a footstool as a symbol of ultimate authority and the complete subjugation of enemies is powerfully articulated through הֲדֹם (hadom - `{{H1916}}`), particularly in the messianic prophecy of [[Psalm 110:1]], which declares that the Lord will make the Messiah's enemies his "footstool." This prophecy is frequently cited in the New Testament (e.g., [[Matthew 22:44]], [[Hebrews 1:13]], [[Hebrews 10:13]]) to affirm Christ's ultimate victory and sovereign rule. Thus, even though כֶּבֶשׁ is a literal object in a single verse, its linguistic heritage connects it to the grand narrative of divine and human authority, and the ultimate triumph of God's King.
### Summary
The Hebrew word כֶּבֶשׁ (kebesh - `{{H3534}}`) denotes a "footstool," deriving its meaning from the verb כָּבַשׁ (kabash - `{{H3533}}`), "to tread down" or "subdue." Its sole biblical appearance is in [[2 Chronicles 9:18]], where it describes the opulent golden footstool of King Solomon's throne, emphasizing his immense wealth, dignity, and exalted status. While כֶּבֶשׁ itself is a literal object of royal splendor, its etymological root connects it to the broader biblical themes of dominion and authority, as seen in the creation mandate for humanity to "subdue" the earth. It stands distinct from the more theologically significant term הֲדֹם (hadom - `{{H1916}}`), which is frequently used metaphorically for God's footstool and the subjugation of enemies under the Messiah's feet. Nevertheless, כֶּבֶשׁ, through its linguistic heritage, subtly resonates with the profound biblical concept of sovereignty and the ultimate triumph of the One who reigns supreme.
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