### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **libnâh**, represented by `{{H3840}}`, translates to **paved**. Its root meaning suggests **whiteness** and **transparency**. This rare term appears only **1 time** in a single verse in the entire Bible, yet its context provides a powerful image of the foundation beneath the presence of God.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical appearance, `{{H3840}}` is used to describe a profound vision of God. When the leaders of Israel `{{H3478}}` ascended the mountain, they saw `{{H7200}}` the God of Israel, and under His feet `{{H7272}}` there was what looked like a **paved** work of a sapphire stone [[Exodus 24:10]]. This surface is further described as being like the very body `{{H6106}}` of heaven `{{H8064}}` in its clearness, establishing a scene of divine majesty and purity.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its single context illuminate the meaning of `{{H3840}}`:
* `{{H5601}}` **çappîyr** (sapphire): This is the material of the **paved** work. It is a gem associated with the appearance of God's throne and foundations ([[Ezekiel 1:26]], [[Isaiah 54:11]]).
* `{{H4639}}` **maʻăseh** (work): This word, meaning an action, product, or property, clarifies that the **paved** surface is a divine construction or handiwork [[Exodus 24:10]]. It is often used to describe God's works [[Psalms 92:5]].
* `{{H2892}}` **ṭôhar** (clearness): The scene is described with a quality of **clearness**, a term that also denotes brightness and purification [[Exodus 24:10]]. It points to the radiant purity associated with God's presence.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3840}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful appearance.
* **The Foundation of Divine Presence:** The **paved** work serves as the very ground beneath God's feet, suggesting a foundation of divine order, stability, and glorious substance, distinct from the created earth [[Exodus 24:10]].
* **Symbol of Purity:** Derived from a root meaning **whiteness** or **transparency**, the term imbues the scene with a sense of ultimate purity. The platform is not merely solid but spiritually immaculate, reflecting the character of the God `{{H430}}` who stands upon it.
* **Tangible Heavenly Reality:** The word helps to describe a tangible aspect of the divine realm. The vision of a **paved** work of sapphire `{{H5601}}` provides a concrete image of heaven's substance, linking it to concepts of clearness `{{H2892}}` and glory [[Exodus 24:10]].
### Summary
In summary, **libnâh** `{{H3840}}` is a highly specific term whose significance is derived entirely from its singular context. Though it simply means **paved**, it is used to construct an image of the foundation of God's throne room. It ties together the concepts of solid construction with the ethereal qualities of **whiteness**, **transparency**, and the purity of sapphire, giving a rare and vivid glimpse into the substance of the heavenly realm as revealed in scripture [[Exodus 24:10]].
TRV