### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **kiççêʼ**, represented by `{{H3678}}`, literally means a **seat**, **stool**, or **throne**. Derived from a root meaning "to cover" `{{H3680}}`, it often implies a seat of honor or authority. It appears 135 times across 124 unique verses, signifying its importance as a symbol of power, judgment, and rule, from a simple household stool to the very throne of God.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H3678}}` is used to denote different seats of authority. It refers to the divine throne of God, who sits in the heavens and rules over all creation ([[Isaiah 6:1]], [[Isaiah 66:1]]). It is also central to the Davidic covenant, where God promises to establish the **throne** of David's kingdom forever [[2 Samuel 7:16]]. Beyond this, the term describes the seats of earthly rulers, such as Pharaoh's **throne** in Egypt [[Exodus 11:5]] and the royal **throne** of Solomon, which was made of ivory and overlaid with gold [[1 Kings 10:18]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of the throne as a seat of power:
* `{{H4428}}` **melek** (a king): This term identifies the occupant of a throne. The character of the **king** determines the stability of his throne, which is established by righteousness [[Proverbs 16:12]].
* `{{H3427}}` **yâshab** (to sit down, dwell, remain): This verb describes the action of taking a seat of authority. God is seen **sitting** on His throne [[1 Kings 22:19]], as are earthly kings who **sit** on their thrones to execute judgment [[Proverbs 20:8]].
* `{{H4438}}` **malkûwth** (a rule; concretely, a dominion): This word signifies the dominion and reign that a throne represents. The Lord's throne in the heavens is the foundation from which His **kingdom** rules over all [[Psalms 103:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3678}}` is immense, representing core principles of divine governance.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** God's **throne** is the ultimate symbol of His sovereign rule over heaven and earth. Scripture states that the LORD prepared His **throne** in the heavens [[Psalms 103:19]] and that it endures from generation to generation [[Lamentations 5:19]].
* **Foundation of Justice:** The throne of God is not arbitrary; it is established on a foundation of righteousness. Justice and judgment are the habitation of His **throne** [[Psalms 89:14]], and a **throne** built on iniquity can have no fellowship with Him [[Psalms 94:20]].
* **The Messianic Promise:** A key theological promise is tied to the **throne** of David. God swore to David that He would set the fruit of his body upon his **throne** [[Psalms 132:11]] and establish it forever [[2 Samuel 7:16]], pointing to an eternal king and kingdom [[Isaiah 9:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3678}}` conveys a concept that develops from a physical object to a profound symbol of authority. It can be a simple **stool** in a prophet's chamber [[2 Kings 4:10]], the seat of a human **king** [[Jonah 3:6]], or the majestic **throne** of God in heaven [[Psalms 11:4]]. As a cornerstone of biblical theology, it represents the basis of all legitimate rule, the source of justice, and the eternal nature of God's promised kingdom.
TRV