from an unused root meaning to fold back; a spiral step; winding stair. Compare לֻלָאָה.
Transliteration:lûwl
Pronunciation:lool
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term H3883 (לוּל, *lûwl*) derives from an unused root that conveys the meaning "to fold back" or "to wind." This etymological root directly informs the primary semantic range of the word, which is remarkably narrow and precise. H3883 denotes a "spiral step" or, more commonly, a "winding stair" or "winding staircase." This refers to an architectural feature designed for vertical ascent or descent in a helical or circular fashion, distinct from a straight flight of stairs. The emphasis is on the curved, turning nature of the passage.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term H3883 appears only once in the entire Hebrew Bible, specifically in the detailed architectural description of Solomon's Temple:
* [[1 Kings 6:8]]: "The entrance to the lowest story was on the south side; a winding stairway `{{H3883}}` led up to the middle story, and from the middle story to the third."
In this sole occurrence, *lûwl* unequivocally describes the means of internal circulation within the Temple edifice. The context specifies that this winding stairway connected the three stories (or levels) of chambers that surrounded the main sanctuary. This passage highlights the functional necessity of H3883 in providing access to the upper ancillary rooms of the Temple. The use of a winding stair, as opposed to a straight one, suggests a design choice potentially motivated by space efficiency within the grand structure, or perhaps to maintain the sanctity and privacy of certain areas. It underscores the intricate and purposeful planning inherent in the Temple's construction.
### Related Words & Concepts
The base definition for H3883 itself points to a related term for comparison: `{{H3884}}` (לֻלָאָה, *lulā'āh*). This cognate term means "a loop" or "a winding," further reinforcing the core concept of circularity, turning, or folding back. While H3883 refers to a specific architectural structure, `{{H3884}}` captures the abstract quality of winding or looping.
Beyond direct linguistic cognates, H3883 relates conceptually to other terms associated with the Temple's construction and function:
* Architectural terms for different parts of the Temple, emphasizing the meticulous detail of its design.
* Words denoting "ascent" or "going up" (e.g., `{{H4609}}` *ma'aleh*), as the winding stair served precisely this purpose within the sacred complex.
* Concepts of order, precision, and craftsmanship, which are evident throughout the biblical descriptions of the Tabernacle and Temple.
### Theological Significance
Given its singular appearance within the description of Solomon's Temple, the theological significance of H3883 is primarily tied to the sacred space itself. The Temple was the dwelling place of God's presence among His people, a meticulously designed structure reflecting divine order and holiness. The presence of a "winding stair" (lûwl) within this sacred edifice, though seemingly a mundane architectural detail, contributes to the overall picture of a perfectly ordered and functional house for the Lord.
The winding stair facilitated movement between the various levels of the Temple's chambers, which were used for storage, priestly functions, or other auxiliary purposes. In this sense, the H3883 represents the practical means by which access was gained within the sacred precinct. While not imbued with overt symbolic meaning in scripture, its inclusion underscores the divine attention to every detail of the Temple's construction. It speaks to the idea that even the functional elements within God's dwelling were carefully planned and executed, contributing to the overall sanctity and efficiency of the holy site. It reflects the truth that God is a God of order, and His dwelling place, however grand or humble, is built with purpose and precision.
### Summary
The Hebrew word H3883 (לוּל, *lûwl*) precisely denotes a "winding stair" or "spiral step," deriving its meaning from an unused root signifying "to fold back" or "to wind." Its sole biblical occurrence is in [[1 Kings 6:8]], where it describes the internal staircase connecting the three stories of chambers surrounding Solomon's Temple. This specific architectural feature highlights the intricate and functional design of the sacred structure, enabling access within the holy complex. The term's connection to `{{H3884}}` (lulā'āh), meaning "a loop" or "winding," reinforces its core semantic range. Theologically, the presence of *lûwl* in the Temple narrative underscores the divine meticulousness in the planning and construction of God's dwelling place, emphasizing order, precision, and the purposeful functionality of every component within the sacred space.
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