### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **kippâh**, represented by `{{H3712}}`, refers to a **branch** or a leaf of a palmtree. It appears only **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. While its literal meaning is botanical, it is used figuratively in scripture to denote a high-ranking or prominent part of a nation or group, often in the context of divine judgment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical prophecy, `{{H3712}}` is used metaphorically to illustrate judgment. In Isaiah, it appears in parallel with "head" `{{H7218}}` and "rush" `{{H100}}` to signify a comprehensive judgment upon both Israel `{{H3478}}` and Egypt `{{H4714}}`. The LORD `{{H3068}}` will "cut off" `{{H3772}}` the "branch" `{{H3712}}` from Israel [[Isaiah 9:14]], and for Egypt, there will be no work `{{H4639}}` that the "branch" may do [[Isaiah 19:15]]. In Job, the term symbolizes vitality and longevity, where a premature end is described as a **branch** that "shall not be green" `{{H7488}}` [[Job 15:32]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the symbolic meaning of "branch":
* `{{H7218}}` **rôʼsh** (head): This word is frequently paired with `{{H3712}}` to represent the highest societal ranks or leadership. In the context of judgment, the LORD cuts off both "head and tail, branch and rush" [[Isaiah 9:14]].
* `{{H2180}}` **zânâb** (tail): This word is used as the direct counterpart to "head," signifying the lowest or least honorable members of society. Its use alongside "branch" illustrates a judgment that encompasses all social strata [[Isaiah 19:15]].
* `{{H100}}` **ʼagmôwn** (rush): Defined as a bulrush, this word is used in parallel with "branch" to denote the common or lowly, in contrast to the prominent "branch" or "head." This pairing emphasizes the totality of the judgment affecting everyone from the highest to the lowest [[Isaiah 9:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3712}}` is focused on the nature of divine judgment.
* **Symbol of National Stature:** Paired with "head" `{{H7218}}`, the "branch" represents the noble and prominent figures within a nation. The prophecy to "cut off" the branch from Israel `{{H3478}}` is a declaration of judgment against its leadership and elite [[Isaiah 9:14]].
* **Indicator of Vitality and Prosperity:** The state of the "branch" is used as a metaphor for life. A branch that is not "green" `{{H7488}}` symbolizes a life cut short and a future without prosperity, as described in Job's discourse [[Job 15:32]].
* **Target of Divine Judgment:** In all of its occurrences, `{{H3712}}` is associated with divine judgment. Whether being "cut off" `{{H3772}}` by the LORD `{{H3068}}` or being rendered useless, the "branch" serves as a symbol for that which is targeted for discipline or destruction by God ([[Isaiah 9:14]], [[Isaiah 19:15]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3712}}` **kippâh**, while literally meaning a palm branch, is used exclusively as a powerful metaphor in scripture. It symbolizes the prominent and elite members of a society, often contrasted with the lowly "rush." Its condition—whether being cut off or failing to be green—serves as a stark indicator of divine judgment, the loss of national strength, and a life ending prematurely. Through its few appearances, the word illustrates how God's judgment can impact every level of a nation, from the leadership down to the common people.
TRV