passive participle of כָּסָה; properly, covered, i.e. (as noun) a covering; covering.
Transliteration:kâçûwy
Pronunciation:kaw-soo'-ee
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word `{{H3681}}` (kâçûwy) is a passive participle derived from the verb `{{H3680}}` (kâçâ), which carries the core meaning of "to cover," "to conceal," "to clothe," or, in a theological sense, "to forgive" or "to atone." As a passive participle, `{{H3681}}` literally denotes "that which is covered" or "being covered." When substantivized, it functions as a noun, referring to "a covering" or "a veil." The semantic range of `{{H3681}}` thus encompasses both the physical act or state of being covered and the object that performs the covering, often implying a layer placed over something for protection, concealment, or demarcation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The occurrences of `{{H3681}}` in the Hebrew Bible are almost exclusively found within the detailed descriptions of the Tabernacle and its sacred implements. This concentrated usage provides a clear and consistent contextual meaning:
* In [[Exodus 26:14]], `{{H3681}}` refers to the outer coverings of the Tabernacle itself, specifically "a covering of rams' skins dyed red, and a covering of badgers' skins (תַּחַשׁ - tachash) above that." This is reiterated in [[Exodus 36:19]] during the account of the Tabernacle's construction, and again in [[Exodus 39:34]] in the summary of completed items. These coverings were essential for the physical protection and durability of the sacred tent in the wilderness.
* In the book of Numbers, `{{H3681}}` is used repeatedly in the instructions for transporting the Tabernacle's holy furnishings:
* [[Numbers 4:6]] describes the "covering of badgers' skins" placed over the table of showbread.
* [[Numbers 4:8]] refers to the same type of covering for the lampstand.
* [[Numbers 4:10]] and [[Numbers 4:11]] mention it for the golden altar.
* [[Numbers 4:12]] broadly states that "all the instruments of ministry" were to be covered with a "covering of badgers' skins."
Across these contexts, `{{H3681}}` consistently denotes a protective, durable, and often concealing layer for sacred objects. The "badgers' skins" (or perhaps dugong/sea cow skins, given scholarly debate on `{{H8476}}` - tachash) suggest a material chosen for its resilience and ability to shield against elements, emphasizing the preservation of the holy. Furthermore, these coverings served to hide the sanctity of the objects from profane view, underscoring their unique status and the reverence required in their handling.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **`{{H3680}}` (kâçâ):** The root verb, meaning "to cover," "to conceal," "to forgive," or "to atone." This direct etymological link is paramount, as the physical "covering" of `{{H3681}}` can serve as a metaphor for the spiritual "covering" of sin, central to the concept of atonement in the Mosaic Law.
* **`{{H4372}}` (mikseh):** Another noun derived from `{{H3680}}`, also meaning "covering" or "cover." While `{{H3681}}` often specifies the durable outer layer, `{{H4372}}` can refer to a broader range of coverings, such as the covering for Noah's ark ([[Genesis 8:13]]) or other layers of the Tabernacle ([[Exodus 26:7]]). The two words share semantic overlap but `{{H3681}}` carries the nuance of "that which has been covered" (passive participle).
* **`{{H6539}}` (parochet):** The "veil" or "curtain" of the Tabernacle and Temple. While not etymologically related, the *parochet* served a similar function of separation and concealment, particularly for the Holy of Holies, reinforcing the idea of sacred boundaries and hidden divine presence.
* **Concealment and Revelation:** The concept of covering inherently implies something hidden. In biblical theology, this often relates to the tension between God's hiddenness (His transcendence, His unapproachable glory) and His self-revelation (His immanence, His covenant with humanity). The Tabernacle coverings embody this tension, shielding the divine presence while simultaneously enabling it to dwell among His people.
### Theological Significance
The consistent application of `{{H3681}}` to the Tabernacle's coverings imbues the word with profound theological significance:
* **Holiness and Separation:** The primary theological implication is the absolute holiness of God and the sacredness of His dwelling place. The coverings served as a physical barrier, separating the holy objects from the common and profane. This emphasized the chasm between a holy God and sinful humanity, a chasm that could only be approached through divinely prescribed means and with utmost reverence. The coverings protected the people from the intensity of God's holiness, and the holy objects from defilement.
* **Divine Protection and Preservation:** The durable nature of the materials used for the coverings (rams' skins, badgers' skins) highlights God's meticulous provision for the preservation of His instruments of worship. This speaks to God's care in maintaining the integrity of His covenant and the means by which He communicates with His people, even in the challenging environment of the wilderness.
* **Atonement and Reconciliation (Implied):** While `{{H3681}}` itself does not directly mean atonement, its root `{{H3680}}` is central to the concept of "covering" sin (kipper). The Tabernacle, with its coverings, housed the Ark of the Covenant and the mercy seat, where atonement was made. The physical coverings, which shielded the people from the overwhelming holiness within, subtly prefigure the spiritual "covering" of sin through sacrifice, which allows for reconciliation between God and humanity. The visible covering enabled proximity without destruction.
* **Divine Mystery:** The veiled nature of the Tabernacle's interior, hidden by the coverings, symbolizes the mystery of God's presence. Though He condescends to dwell among His people, His full glory and the depth of His being remain veiled, accessible only through specific, divinely appointed rituals and mediators. This encourages awe, reverence, and humility in approaching the Divine.
### Summary
`{{H3681}}` (kâçûwy) is a Hebrew passive participle meaning "that which is covered" or, as a noun, "a covering." Predominantly found in the Pentateuch, it describes the durable outer coverings of the Tabernacle and its sacred furnishings. These coverings, often made of rams' skins and badgers' skins, served both practical and profound theological purposes: providing physical protection for the holy objects, symbolizing the absolute holiness of God and the necessary separation between the sacred and the profane, and hinting at the divine mystery inherent in God's veiled presence among His people. Rooted in `{{H3680}}` (kâçâ), the concept of `{{H3681}}` also subtly connects to the broader biblical theme of atonement, where unholiness is "covered" to allow for a relationship with a holy God.
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