a primitive root, apparently meaning to mediate in religious services; but used only as denominative from כֹּהֵן; to officiate as a priest; figuratively, to put on regalia; deck, be (do the office of a, execute the, minister in the) priest('s office).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **kâhan**, represented by `{{H3547}}`, means to officiate as a priest or, figuratively, to deck oneself with regalia. It appears **23 times** across **23 unique verses** in the Bible. While its primary use relates to the formal duties of the priesthood, it also carries a beautiful metaphorical sense of adornment and celebration.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H3547}}` is central to establishing the Aaronic priesthood. God commands Moses to set apart **Aaron** and his **sons** specifically "that he may minister unto me in the priest's office" [[Exodus 28:1]]. This divine appointment is accompanied by detailed instructions for their consecration, including the creation of holy **garments** [[Exodus 28:4]] and the act of anointing [[Exodus 28:41]]. The verb is also used figuratively, as in the prophecy where a bridegroom "decketh himself with ornaments" [[Isaiah 61:10]], linking the priestly function with splendor. Conversely, the term is used to denote removal from this sacred office due to unfaithfulness, as when God rejects those who have forgotten His **law** [[Hosea 4:6]] or when **Jeroboam** casts off the Levites from their duties [[2 Chronicles 11:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of the priesthood and its service:
* `{{H3548}}` **kôhên** (priest): As the noun form from which `{{H3547}}` is derived, this word identifies the individual who officiates. It is used to designate **Aaron** and his descendants as those set apart for this role [[Exodus 35:19]].
* `{{H3550}}` **kᵉhunnâh** (priesthood): This noun refers to the office itself. The anointing of **Aaron** and his **sons** establishes an "everlasting **priesthood**" that will continue through their **generations** [[Exodus 40:15]].
* `{{H8334}}` **shârath** (minister, serve): This verb describes the act of service or worship performed by the priests. It is often used in connection with the cloths of **service** needed to **minister** in the holy place [[Exodus 39:41]].
* `{{H6942}}` **qâdash** (consecrate, dedicate, sanctify): This verb is essential to the process of being made a priest. Aaron and his sons had to be sanctified before they could **minister** in the priest's office [[Exodus 28:41]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3547}}` is significant, establishing key principles of worship and mediation.
* **Divine Appointment:** The authority to **minister** as a priest comes directly from God. It is not a position one can take for oneself but is initiated by God's call and specific instruction, as seen with the selection of **Aaron** and his sons [[Exodus 28:1]].
* **Consecration and Sanctity:** The act of ministering requires separation and holiness. The process of anointing, clothing in holy **garments**, and consecration is what prepares an individual to "minister unto the LORD" [[Leviticus 16:32]]. This sets a precedent for approaching a holy God.
* **Generational Covenant:** The office is established as a perpetual and "everlasting **priesthood**" [[Exodus 40:15]]. It passes from father to **son**, such as from **Aaron** to **Eleazar** [[Deuteronomy 10:6]], ensuring a continuous line of mediation for the people.
* **Responsibility and Rejection:** The privilege of being a priest carries the heavy responsibility of knowing and obeying God's **law**. Forgetting this **law** leads to being rejected from the office [[Hosea 4:6]], and committing **abominations** results in being barred from coming near to God [[Ezekiel 44:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3547}}` defines the very action of the priesthood. It encapsulates the divinely ordained process of consecrating **Aaron** and his descendants to **minister** before the LORD. Beyond its literal use, the word's figurative application beautifully illustrates the honor and splendor associated with this sacred role. It underscores that serving as a priest is a holy calling, governed by covenant, demanding faithfulness, and established by God's authority alone.
TRV