(Aramaic) corresponding to לָבַשׁ; {properly, wrap around, i.e. (by implication) to put on agarment or clothe (oneself, or another), literally or figuratively}; clothe.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **lᵉbash**, represented by `{{H3848}}`, means to **clothe**. It appears 3 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible. The definition implies the act of wrapping around or putting on a garment, which can be understood in both a literal and figurative sense.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H3848}}` is used exclusively within the account of King Belshazzar's feast in the book of Daniel. The king promises that whoever can interpret the mysterious writing on the wall "shall be **clothed** with scarlet" and promoted to a high position [[Daniel 5:7]]. This offer is repeated directly to Daniel when he is brought before the king [[Daniel 5:16]]. After Daniel successfully provides the interpretation, the command is fulfilled, and they **clothed** Daniel with scarlet as a tangible sign of his new authority [[Daniel 5:29]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words appear alongside `{{H3848}}` to describe the full extent of the honor being bestowed:
* `{{H711}}` **ʼargᵉvân** (purple): This word specifies the color of the garment used to clothe Daniel, signifying royalty and high status within the kingdom [[Daniel 5:7]].
* `{{H2002}}` **hamnîyk** (a necklace): This term refers to the chain that was part of the reward, placed around the neck as a visible symbol of honor and royal favor [[Daniel 5:16]].
* `{{H1722}}` **dᵉhab** (gold): This specifies that the chain was made of gold, emphasizing its value and the wealth of the kingdom conferring the honor [[Daniel 5:29]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{H3848}}` highlights several key themes within its narrative context:
* **Symbol of Royal Honor:** To be **clothed** in scarlet by the king was a public act signifying immense favor and reward. The garment itself was a mark of high distinction in the Babylonian court [[Daniel 5:7]].
* **Investiture of Authority:** The act of clothing is directly linked to a promotion in rank. Being **clothed** was the first part of the reward that included Daniel's appointment as the third ruler in the kingdom, making it a form of official investiture [[Daniel 5:29]].
* **Fulfillment of a King's Word:** The word appears first as part of a royal promise made to any wise man [[Daniel 5:7]] and then specifically to Daniel [[Daniel 5:16]], with its final use marking the fulfillment of that promise.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3848}}` **lᵉbash** is a specific Aramaic term for the act of clothing someone. Its biblical usage is confined to a single event in the book of Daniel, where it consistently denotes the bestowal of royal honor and high office. The act of being **clothed** by King Belshazzar serves as a tangible and public symbol of a reward promised and delivered, elevating Daniel to a position of significant authority in the kingdom.
TRV