from the same as גִּבְעָה; a cap (as hemispherical); bonnet.
Transliteration:migbâʻâh
Pronunciation:mig-baw-aw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word מִגְבָּעָה (migbâʻâh, `{{H4021}}`) denotes a "cap" or "bonnet." Its etymology is directly linked to the noun גִּבְעָה (gibʻah, `{{H1389}}`), meaning "hill" or "mound." This etymological connection is crucial, as it informs the primary semantic range of migbâʻâh by suggesting a rounded, hemispherical, or conical shape, akin to a small hill. Thus, it describes a form-fitting piece of headwear. Within the biblical context, its usage is highly specialized, referring exclusively to a specific item of priestly attire. It is distinct from the more elaborate מִצְנֶפֶת (mitsnepheth, `{{H4701}}`), the turban worn by the high priest, indicating a clear differentiation in design and wearer.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term מִגְבָּבָה (migbâʻâh) appears predominantly in the book of Exodus, with a single occurrence in Leviticus, always in the context of the sacred garments prescribed for the Aaronic priesthood. Its first mention is in [[Exodus 28:4]], where it is listed among the holy garments to be made for Aaron and his sons "for glory and for beauty." This verse immediately establishes the ceremonial and aesthetic purpose of the migbâʻâh. Further details are provided in [[Exodus 28:40]], specifying that "bonnets" (migbâʻâh) are to be made for Aaron's sons.
In the account of the priests' consecration, the migbâʻâh is explicitly placed upon Aaron's sons as part of their investiture ([[Exodus 29:9]], [[Leviticus 8:13]]). This act signifies their official appointment and setting apart for service. The final reference to the migbâʻâh is in the detailed description of the completed priestly garments in [[Exodus 39:28]], confirming its construction from fine twined linen. The consistent placement of this word within the instructions for the tabernacle and its service underscores its integral role in the divinely ordained system of worship and the meticulous attention to detail required for those who ministered before Yahweh.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **גִּבְעָה (gibʻah, `{{H1389}}`):** The root word, meaning "hill" or "mound," directly informs the hemispherical shape of the migbâʻâh.
* **מִצְנֶפֶת (mitsnepheth, `{{H4701}}`):** The high priest's turban, frequently mentioned alongside migbâʻâh to differentiate the headwear for the high priest versus the ordinary priests. This distinction highlights the hierarchical structure within the priesthood.
* **בֶּגֶד (beged, `{{H899}}`):** A general term for "garment," of which the migbâʻâh is a highly specific and consecrated type.
* **Priestly Garments:** The migbâʻâh is part of a larger ensemble of holy garments (e.g., ephod, breastplate, robe, tunic, sash) designed to set the priests apart and enable them to minister appropriately in the tabernacle. These garments collectively symbolize the purity, dignity, and sacred function of the priesthood.
* **Holiness and Consecration:** The very act of wearing these prescribed garments, including the migbâʻâh, was an act of consecration, signifying the priests' separation for divine service and their required purity in approaching God.
### Theological Significance
The מִגְבָּבָה (migbâʻâh) holds significant theological weight as a component of the priestly vestments.
1. **Dignity and Honor:** The instruction that the garments were "for glory and for beauty" ([[Exodus 28:2]], [[Exodus 28:40]]) emphasizes the inherent dignity and honor of the priestly office. The migbâʻâh, though seemingly a simple cap, contributed to the overall majestic appearance befitting those who served the Most High God.
2. **Order and Distinction:** The specific design of the migbâʻâh for the ordinary priests, as distinct from the high priest's turban, underscores the divinely established order and hierarchy within the Israelite cultus. Each rank had its appointed role and corresponding attire, reflecting God's meticulous organization.
3. **Consecration and Set-Apartness:** The act of donning the migbâʻâh was an integral part of the priests' consecration ceremony. It visually marked them as set apart for sacred service, signifying their exclusive dedication to Yahweh and their fitness to mediate between God and His people.
4. **Symbol of Purity:** While the definition itself does not specify material, the context of priestly garments often implies fine linen, which symbolizes purity and righteousness. The migbâʻâh, as part of this ensemble, contributed to the overall symbolism of the purity required for approaching a holy God.
5. **Representational Role:** Adorned in their prescribed garments, including the migbâʻâh, the priests represented the people before God and God to the people. The precise adherence to God's instructions for their attire ensured they fulfilled this vital representational role in a manner pleasing to Him.
### Summary
The Hebrew word מִגְבָּעָה (migbâʻâh, `{{H4021}}`) refers to a "cap" or "bonnet," specifically the rounded headwear prescribed for the ordinary priests in ancient Israel. Its etymological root, גִּבְעָה (gibʻah, `{{H1389}}`, "hill"), highlights its hemispherical shape. Primarily found in the book of Exodus, the migbâʻâh is consistently presented as an essential component of the holy garments for Aaron's sons ([[Exodus 28:40]], [[Exodus 29:9]]). It served to distinguish their attire from the high priest's turban (מִצְנֶפֶת, `{{H4701}}`), emphasizing the divinely ordained order of the priesthood. Theologically, the migbâʻâh symbolizes the dignity, consecration, and distinct role of the priests. It was part of the "glory and beauty" ([[Exodus 28:2]]) that visually set apart those who ministered in the tabernacle, underscoring their sacred function and the purity required for service to Yahweh.
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