### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **kâphal**, represented by `{{H3717}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to fold together** or, figuratively, **to repeat** or **double**. It appears 5 times across 4 unique verses in the Bible, primarily in contexts of construction and prophetic judgment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H3717}}` is used in two distinct ways. Primarily, it describes the physical construction of sacred objects for the Tabernacle. Instructions are given to **double** the sixth curtain in the Tabernacle's forefront [[Exodus 26:9]]. The term is also used twice to describe the High Priest's breastplate, which was to be made **double** and foursquare [[Exodus 39:9]]. This folding or doubling created a specific, required dimension [[Exodus 28:16]]. In a different context, the word is used prophetically in Ezekiel, where the sword of judgment is to be **doubled** a third time, signifying an intensified and repeated action [[Ezekiel 21:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the action of doubling or intensifying:
* `{{H7251}}` **râbaʻ** (to be quadrate; (four-) square(-d)): This word is used directly with `kâphal` in the description of the breastplate, specifying that it was to be **foursquare** and **doubled** ([[Exodus 28:16]], [[Exodus 39:9]]).
* `{{H2266}}` **châbar** (to join... couple (together)): In the construction of the Tabernacle, this term is used for coupling curtains together, while `kâphal` is used for folding a specific curtain, showing a related but distinct action in assembly [[Exodus 26:9]].
* `{{H5221}}` **nâkâh** (to strike... smite): This word appears with `kâphal` in a prophetic context of judgment. The prophet is told to **smite** his hands together as the sword of judgment is **doubled**, linking the physical action to the figurative intensification [[Ezekiel 21:14]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{H3717}}` carries specific conceptual weight in its limited appearances.
* **Divine Precision in Sacred Objects:** The use of `{{H3717}}` in the instructions for the Tabernacle curtain and the High Priest's breastplate highlights the meticulous detail required in creating items for worship. The doubling was a specific, commanded action to achieve a divinely ordained structure ([[Exodus 28:16]], [[Exodus 39:9]]).
* **Figurative Intensification:** In prophecy, the word moves from a literal fold to a figurative repetition. The "doubled" sword in Ezekiel's vision represents an intensification of divine judgment, indicating that the coming destruction would be severe and repeated [[Ezekiel 21:14]].
* **Creation of a Specific Form:** The act of doubling fabric, as with the breastplate, creates a pouch-like structure. This physical act of folding something together to make it "double" was essential for the object's function as described in Exodus [[Exodus 39:9]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3717}}` `kâphal` is a precise term used sparingly in the Old Testament. Its meaning of "to fold together" or "double" is applied literally in the detailed commands for constructing the Tabernacle's most sacred items, emphasizing divine order and precision [[Exodus 26:9]]. Figuratively, it conveys the concept of repetition and intensification, particularly in the context of God's judgment [[Ezekiel 21:14]]. Though rare, `kâphal` illustrates how a simple physical action can be imbued with significant theological weight, representing both careful creation and severe judgment.
TRV