The Hebrew word kᵉphôwr, represented by H3713, is derived from a root meaning "a cover." It appears 9 times in 6 verses and holds a dual meaning: it can refer to hoar frost, as a substance that covers the ground, or a bason, which is a type of covered goblet or tankard.
In its usage, H3713 appears in two distinct contexts. As a natural element, it is described as "hoar frost" that appears on the ground after the dew is gone Exodus 16:14. It is depicted as an element of creation that originates from heaven, alongside ice Job 38:29. In a simile, God is said to scatter the hoarfrost like ashes Psalms 147:16. Separately, H3713 refers to sacred vessels. It is used to list basons of gold and silver designated by weight for temple service 1 Chronicles 28:17 and as part of the treasury of vessels returned from exile (Ezra 1:10, Ezra 8:27).
Several related words help clarify the meaning of H3713 in its different contexts:
- H7140 qerach (ice, frost): This word is used in parallel with hoary frost H3713 to describe God's power over the elements of cold Job 38:29.
- H2091 zâhâb (gold): The term kᵉphôwr is frequently used to describe basons made of this precious metal, highlighting their value in worship (Ezra 8:27, 1 Chronicles 28:17).
- H3701 keçeph (silver): Like gold, this word denotes the material used for sacred basons, which are accounted for by weight 1 Chronicles 28:17 and type Ezra 1:10.
- H665 ʼêpher (ashes): This word is used in a direct comparison to illustrate how God scatters hoarfrost upon the earth Psalms 147:16.
The theological significance of H3713 stems from its two applications, both of which point back to its root meaning of "a cover."
- Divine Power in Creation: As hoar frost, the word illustrates God's sovereignty over the natural world. He "gendered" it Job 38:29, scatters it Psalms 147:16, and uses it as part of his miraculous provision in the wilderness Exodus 16:14.
- Sanctity in Worship: As bason, the term signifies holiness and value. These covered vessels, made of precious gold H2091 and silver H3701, were integral to the temple's treasury and service, set apart for a sacred purpose (Ezra 1:10, 1 Chronicles 28:17).
In summary, H3713 is a specific term that carries a dual meaning tied to the concept of covering. Whether describing the hoar frost that covers the ground as an act of God's creative power or the valuable covered basons used for sacred worship, kᵉphôwr illustrates a connection between God's work in nature and the holy objects dedicated to Him.
TRV