The Hebrew word kâçam, represented by H3697, is a primitive root meaning to shear. It is used idiomatically to mean poll, or to trim hair. This highly specific term appears only 2 times within a single verse in the entire Bible, highlighting its narrow and particular application.
The sole use of H3697 is found in a directive for priests in Ezekiel's vision of the new temple. The command in Ezekiel 44:20 establishes a rule for priestly grooming: "Neither shall they shave their heads, nor suffer their locks to grow long; they shall only poll their heads." This instruction places the act of polling as a moderate, required practice, distinct from the extremes of either shaving the head completely or letting the hair grow out.
Several related words from this passage help clarify the meaning of H3697 by contrast:
- H1548 gâlach (to shave): This word for shaving is explicitly forbidden for the priests in this context. It is elsewhere associated with purification rituals Leviticus 14:8, mourning Jeremiah 41:5, or humiliation 1 Chronicles 19:4, marking a different status than the regular, ordered service of the priesthood described by Ezekiel.
- H6545 peraʻ (locks): This word refers to hair that is let grow long. Priests were forbidden from suffering their locks to grow long, an action specifically commanded for those under a Nazirite vow Numbers 6:5. This distinction separates the priestly office from other forms of dedication.
- H7218 rôʼsh (head): This is the object of the action; the priests were to poll their heads. The word can refer to a physical head Psalms 23:5 or a figurative position of leadership, as when the Lord is exalted as head above all 1 Chronicles 29:11.
- H7971 shâlach (grow long): Used idiomatically, this root which means to send away or forth is used to describe the forbidden act of letting hair grow long. This contrasts with its more common usage of being sent on a divine mission Isaiah 61:1 or sending forth a hand Jeremiah 1:9.
While rare, the theological significance of H3697 is tied directly to the concept of priestly holiness and order.
- Symbol of Moderation: The command to "poll" establishes a middle way between two extremes. It forbids both the complete removal of hair associated with certain purification rites or mourning, and the growing of long hair associated with the Nazirite vow. This points to a principle of balance and order in priestly conduct.
- Priestly Distinction: This specific grooming standard visually separated the priesthood. Their appearance was to be neither like that of a mourner nor a Nazirite, but was to be a unique reflection of their constant state of readiness and consecration for temple service.
- Consecrated Appearance: The instruction is part of a larger set of rules governing the priests' lives. The inclusion of a detail as specific as a haircut demonstrates that holiness was to permeate every aspect of life, including one's physical presentation before the Lord.
In summary, H3697 is a term with a singular, focused meaning. Defined entirely by its context in Ezekiel 44:20, kâçam signifies the specific act of trimming the hair. This was not merely a matter of style but a command freighted with theological importance, representing the moderation, order, and distinct holiness required of those set apart for the service of God. It shows how a simple physical regulation can communicate profound truths about separation and consecration.
TRV