from an unused root meaning to clothe; the shoulder (proper, i.e. upper end of the arm; as being the spot where the garments hang); figuratively, side-piece or lateral projection of anything; arm, corner, shoulder(-piece), side, undersetter.
Transliteration:kâthêph
Pronunciation:kaw-thafe'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun כָּתֵף (kâthêph, `{{H3802}}`) primarily denotes the "shoulder," specifically the upper end of the arm. This literal meaning is often understood in the context of its function as the part of the body upon which garments hang or burdens are carried. The etymological note suggests a connection to an unused root meaning "to clothe," reinforcing this functional aspect. Beyond its anatomical sense, כָּתֵף extends semantically to describe a "side-piece" or "lateral projection" of an object, thus encompassing "arm," "corner," "side," or "undersetter" in a figurative or architectural context. This range highlights its role as a supportive, boundary, or projecting element.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term כָּתֵף appears frequently in the Hebrew Bible, reflecting both its literal and extended meanings.
In its most common usage, כָּתֵף refers to the human shoulder, often in the context of bearing burdens or responsibilities. For instance, the tribe of Issachar is described as "a strong ass, crouching between the sheepfolds; he bowed his shoulder to bear, and became a servant at forced labor" [[Genesis 49:15]], illustrating the shoulder's role in physical toil. The Levites were specifically commanded to carry the holy vessels of the Tabernacle "on their shoulders" [[Numbers 7:9]], [[1 Chronicles 15:15]], emphasizing the sacred duty and physical effort required for divine service. Perhaps most profoundly, the prophetic declaration concerning the Messiah states, "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder" [[Isaiah 9:6]], symbolizing the weight of sovereign authority and responsibility that rests upon the coming ruler.
Figuratively, כָּתֵף describes architectural or geographical features. In descriptions of the Tabernacle and Temple, it can refer to projections or supporting elements. For example, the bases for the lavers in Solomon's Temple are described with "shoulders" or "corners" [[1 Kings 7:30]], [[1 Kings 7:34]], indicating the structural supports or projections. Geographically, כָּתֵף denotes the "side" or "slope" of a mountain or territory, marking a boundary or distinct section. Examples include the description of tribal borders, such as "the shoulder of the Jebusite" [[Joshua 15:8]] or "the shoulder of Luz" [[Joshua 18:12]], delineating specific topographical features.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of כָּתֵף intersects with several related words and concepts. Conceptually, it is closely linked to ideas of *burden-bearing*, *support*, *strength*, and *responsibility*.
Words related to *burden* include:
* מַשָּׂא (masśa', `{{H4853}}`), referring to a load or burden, often one that is carried.
* סֶבֶל (sevel, `{{H5448}}`), denoting a heavy burden or forced labor.
The shoulder is the primary anatomical point for carrying such burdens.
The concept of *strength* or *power* is also implicit, as the shoulder is a key part of the body's capacity for work and endurance. Related terms might include:
* חַיִל (ḥayil, `{{H2428}}`), meaning strength, wealth, or army.
* עֹז (ʿoz, `{{H5797}}`), referring to strength, might, or power.
Furthermore, the idea of *support* is central to כָּתֵף, especially in its architectural senses. The verb סָמַךְ (sāmak, `{{H5564}}`), "to lean upon, support," captures this functional aspect. The metaphorical use of the shoulder in bearing government or responsibility connects it to leadership and authority.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of כָּתֵף is multifaceted, primarily revolving around themes of divine sovereignty, human responsibility, and redemptive burden-bearing.
The most profound theological use is found in [[Isaiah 9:6]], where the "government shall be upon his shoulder" of the Messiah. This imagery powerfully conveys Christ's ultimate authority and His capacity to bear the full weight of dominion, justice, and salvation. It speaks to His divine strength and unwavering commitment to His people and His kingdom. He is the one who carries the burden of humanity's sin and the responsibility of cosmic redemption.
In the context of the Levites carrying the Ark of the Covenant on their shoulders, כָּתֵף signifies sacred service and the physical demand of ministering before a holy God. It underscores that carrying the presence of God or His sacred articles is a weighty, honorable, and divinely appointed task, requiring dedicated effort and reverence.
Metaphorically, the shoulder can also represent the divine capacity to sustain and carry His people. While not explicitly using כָּתֵף for God's shoulder, the concept of God bearing His people "on eagle's wings" [[Exodus 19:4]] or carrying them "as a man carries his son" [[Deuteronomy 1:31]] evokes a similar protective and supportive imagery. The shoulder, therefore, becomes a symbol of steadfast support, unwavering strength, and faithful endurance, both in human service to God and in God's sovereign care for humanity.
### Summary
The Hebrew word כָּתֵף (kâthêph, `{{H3802}}`) fundamentally denotes the "shoulder," serving as a literal anatomical term and extending figuratively to describe supportive or projecting elements of structures and geographical features. Its core meaning encompasses the function of bearing burdens, whether physical loads or responsibilities. Contextual analysis reveals its use in describing physical labor, sacred service (e.g., carrying the Ark), and architectural components. Theologically, כָּתֵף carries profound significance, particularly in the prophecy of the Messiah bearing the "government upon his shoulder," symbolizing His ultimate authority and redemptive burden-bearing. It also highlights the demanding yet honorable nature of human service to God and implicitly points to God's steadfast strength and support in carrying His people.
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