(Aramaic) from a verb corresponding to that of כַּרְבֵּל; a mantle; hat.
Transliteration:karbᵉlâʼ
Pronunciation:kar-bel-aw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word `{{H3737}}` (karbᵉlâʼ) is a unique term in the biblical lexicon, appearing only once. Its base definition points to a derivation from a verb corresponding to כַּרְבֵּל (karbēl), which carries the sense of "to wrap" or "to envelop." This etymological connection suggests that `{{H3737}}` refers to an item of clothing that covers or encloses. Its semantic range is typically understood to encompass either a "mantle" (a loose outer garment or cloak) or a "hat" (a head covering). The dual interpretation underscores a general meaning of an external, often drapes-like, covering. Given its single occurrence, the precise form and function remain somewhat open to interpretation, but it clearly denotes an article of clothing.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole occurrence of `{{H3737}}` is found in the Aramaic portion of the book of Daniel:
* [[Daniel 3:21]]: "Then these men were bound in their tunics, their trousers, their `{{H3737}}`, and their other garments, and were cast into the midst of the burning fiery furnace."
In this critical passage, `{{H3737}}` is enumerated as one of the specific garments worn by Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego when they were bound and thrown into Nebuchadnezzar's fiery furnace. The context is a detailed description of their attire, emphasizing that they were fully clothed, perhaps in official or ceremonial garments, as they faced this ordeal. The listing of "tunics," "trousers," "their `{{H3737}}`," and "other garments" suggests a complete ensemble. The presence of `{{H3737}}` within this list highlights the thoroughness of the description and, by extension, the absolute nature of the miracle that follows, where not even their garments were singed ([[Daniel 3:27]]). Different English translations render `{{H3737}}` variously as "hats" (KJV), "mantles" (ESV, NASB), or "cloaks" (NIV), reflecting the ambiguity within its semantic range but consistently identifying it as an item of clothing.
### Related Words & Concepts
While `{{H3737}}` is an Aramaic hapax legomenon (a word appearing only once), its implied root כַּרְבֵּל (karbēl) points to a concept of wrapping or enveloping. This connects it broadly to the biblical theme of clothing as a symbol of status, identity, or protection.
* **General Garments:** The Bible frequently mentions various types of clothing, such as `{{H4594}}` (me'il, "mantle" or "robe"), `{{H8071}}` (salmah/simlah, "garment" or "cloak"), and `{{H6797}}` (tsanif, "turban" or "headdress"). While `{{H3737}}` is distinct, it falls into the broader category of outer or ceremonial attire.
* **Aramaic Lexicon:** As an Aramaic word, `{{H3737}}` belongs to the vocabulary of the Babylonian court and administration, distinct from the more common Hebrew terms. Its uniqueness may suggest a specific type of garment peculiar to that cultural context.
* **The Miracle of Preservation:** The most significant relationship of `{{H3737}}` is not to other words for clothing, but to the miraculous event it describes. The fact that this specific garment, along with all others, remained untouched by the intense fire underscores the completeness of God's protective power.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H3737}}` is not inherent in the garment itself, but in its role within the larger narrative of divine faithfulness and miraculous intervention in Daniel 3.
1. **Testimony to Divine Power:** The survival of the `{{H3737}}` and other garments of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, utterly untouched by the flames, serves as a powerful, tangible testament to the absolute power of God. This detail is crucial for Nebuchadnezzar's recognition of the true God ([[Daniel 3:28-29]]). It emphasizes that God's deliverance was not partial but complete, extending even to the fabric worn by His servants.
2. **Symbol of Unwavering Faith:** The men's willingness to face death rather than compromise their faith is highlighted by their being fully clothed, ready for the furnace. The preservation of their attire signifies God's vindication of their unwavering devotion.
3. **Authenticity of the Miracle:** The precise enumeration of their garments, including `{{H3737}}`, adds a layer of verisimilitude to the account. It makes the subsequent miracle of their untouched state even more astounding and undeniable, as no detail was spared in describing their preparation for the ordeal.
4. **God's Meticulous Care:** The detail that "the smell of fire had not come upon them" ([[Daniel 3:27]]) includes their clothing. This speaks to God's meticulous care for His faithful, demonstrating that His protection is comprehensive, leaving no trace of the trial upon them.
### Summary
`{{H3737}}` (karbᵉlâʼ) is a rare Aramaic word, appearing solely in [[Daniel 3:21]], referring to a type of "mantle" or "hat." Derived from a root meaning "to wrap," it denotes an outer garment or head covering. Its singular biblical occurrence places it among the specific items of clothing worn by Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego as they were cast into the fiery furnace. The theological significance of `{{H3737}}` is profound, not for the garment itself, but for its inclusion in the detailed description of the miraculous preservation. The fact that this and other garments remained completely unharmed by the fire serves as a powerful, tangible witness to God's absolute power, His meticulous care for His faithful servants, and the vindication of their unwavering faith in the face of persecution. This detail amplifies the divine intervention, leaving no doubt about the authenticity and completeness of God's deliverance.
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