### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **lûwl**, represented by `{{H3883}}`, describes a **winding stair** or a spiral step. Derived from an unused root meaning to fold back, this term is exceptionally specific, appearing only **1 time** in the entire Bible, within a single verse describing the architecture of Solomon's Temple.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H3883}}` is found in the detailed account of the temple's construction. In [[1 Kings 6:8]], it describes the means of vertical movement within the structure. The verse specifies that access to the temple's chambers was facilitated by **winding stairs**, which allowed people to go up from the ground floor to the middle chamber, and from there up to the third level. This architectural feature was located on the right side of the house.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{H3883}}` is enriched by several related architectural and directional words found in its only verse of use:
* `{{H5927}}` **ʻâlâh**: This primitive root means to **ascend** or mount. It describes the action taken on the winding stairs, highlighting the upward movement through the temple's levels [[1 Kings 6:8]]. This same word is used for ascending to the house of the LORD [[2 Kings 20:5]].
* `{{H6763}}` **tsêlâʻ**: This word can mean a **rib**, side, or **chamber**. In this context, it refers to the chambers or side-rooms of the temple that the winding stairs provided access to [[1 Kings 6:8]]. It is also used to describe the rib taken from man to create woman [[Genesis 2:22]].
* `{{H8484}}` **tîykôwn**: Meaning **central** or middle, this term specifies the location of the chamber accessed by the winding stairs. It denotes the level between the lowest and the third story [[1 Kings 6:8]].
* `{{H7992}}` **shᵉlîyshîy**: An ordinal word for **third**, it marks the final destination after ascending from the middle chamber, indicating a multi-storied structure [[1 Kings 6:8]].
* `{{H3233}}` **yᵉmânîy**: This word means **right** or on the right hand. It specifies that the entrance to the chambers via the winding stairs was on the right side of the house, a place often associated with prominence or importance [[1 Kings 6:8]].
### Theological Significance
Though it appears only once, the context of `{{H3883}}` within Solomon's Temple lends it significance.
* **Architectural Progression:** The winding stairs are a key component in the deliberate, layered design of God's house. They facilitate a structured progression from one level of holiness or service to the next, from the **middle** `{{H8484}}` chamber up to the **third** `{{H7992}}`.
* **The Act of Ascension:** The stairs give physical form to the act of "going up" (`ʻâlâh`, `{{H5927}}`). This verb is not merely for movement but is often associated with approaching God, such as going up to His house for worship or healing [[2 Kings 20:5]].
* **Ordered Sacred Space:** The specific placement of the door on the **right side** (`yᵉmânîy`, `{{H3233}}`) leading to the stairs underscores the intentional and ordered nature of the temple's design [[1 Kings 6:8]]. Every detail, including the means of ascent, was part of a divinely specified plan.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3883}}` is a highly specific term for a **winding stair**. Its single occurrence is notable for its setting within the intricate architecture of Solomon's Temple. It represents a physical means of ascent, illustrating the structured and multi-leveled nature of the sacred space. The word and its context demonstrate how even a minor architectural detail can contribute to the biblical theme of orderly progression and upward movement within God's dwelling place.
TRV