### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]]).
### Summary
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