from כָּבַר in the sense of covering; (compare מַכְבֵּר); a cloth (as netted); thick cloth.
Transliteration:makbâr
Pronunciation:mak-bawr'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H4346}}` (מַכְבָּר, makbâr) is derived from the root `{{H3527}}` (כָּבַר, kābar), which typically conveys ideas of "greatness," "abundance," or "heaviness." However, in the context of `{{H4346}}`, the base definition specifies a sense of "covering." This suggests a derivative meaning focused on the material quality of a covering. The definition further elaborates on this, describing it as "a cloth (as netted)" or "thick cloth." This implies a fabric that is substantial, possibly dense, or characterized by an interwoven, net-like structure. The comparison to `{{H4345}}` (מַכְבֵּר, makbēr), which denotes a "net" or "grating," reinforces the idea of an interwoven or meshed quality, even if the primary function of `{{H4346}}` is to serve as a covering. Thus, `{{H4346}}` refers to a specific type of textile, likely robust and possibly with a discernible weave pattern.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{H4346}}` appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, found in [[1 Samuel 19:13]]. The passage describes Michal's quick thinking to help David escape Saul's assassins: "And Michal took an image, and laid it in the bed, and put a pillow of goats' hair for his bolster, and covered it with a cloth."
In this context, the "cloth" (מַכְבָּר, makbâr) is used as a covering for the "teraphim" (an idol or household god), which Michal places in David's bed to create a decoy. The purpose of this "thick cloth" is concealment, making the "teraphim" appear to be David resting in bed. The effectiveness of the deception relies on the substantial nature of the cloth, which would obscure the true identity of the object beneath. This single occurrence places `{{H4346}}` squarely in a domestic setting, serving a practical, albeit deceptive, purpose in a moment of high drama and peril.
### Related Words & Concepts
The etymological connection of `{{H4346}}` to the root `{{H3527}}` (כָּבַר, kābar) is crucial. While `{{H3527}}` often signifies "to be great" or "to be heavy," its application here to a covering suggests a material that is substantial or dense.
Significantly, `{{H4346}}` is closely related to `{{H4345}}` (מַכְבֵּר, makbēr), which is translated as "net" or "grating," specifically referring to the bronze grating of the altar in Exodus ([[Exodus 27:4]], [[Exodus 38:4]]). This strong semantic link reinforces the "netted" or "interwoven" aspect inherent in the definition of `{{H4346}}`.
Furthermore, in the very same verse, [[1 Samuel 19:13]], the phrase "pillow of goats' hair" uses the word `{{H3531}}` (כְּבִיר, kəvîr), also derived from `{{H3527}}`. `{{H3531}}` refers to a "braid" or "plaited work," often a thick mat of hair. The proximity of `{{H4346}}` and `{{H3531}}` in the same sentence, both describing items related to the decoy, highlights a shared semantic field of dense, interwoven, or matted materials. This cluster of related terms underscores the specific texture and density implied by `{{H4346}}`.
### Theological Significance
As a term describing a mundane object, `{{H4346}}` does not carry inherent theological weight in itself. Its significance is derived entirely from its singular biblical context. In [[1 Samuel 19:13]], the "makbâr" becomes an instrument of deception and, by extension, an aid in divine deliverance. Michal's use of this "thick cloth" to conceal the teraphim and create a convincing illusion is a testament to human ingenuity in the face of danger. While God is ultimately sovereign in preserving David's life, the narrative highlights the role of human agency and cleverness, even through seemingly insignificant household items. The "makbâr" serves as a tangible prop in a pivotal moment of the unfolding divine plan for David's kingship, illustrating that even ordinary objects can be instrumental in the grand tapestry of God's redemptive history. It underscores that deliverance can manifest through various means, including the shrewd actions of individuals utilizing common items.
### Summary
The Hebrew word `{{H4346}}` (מַכְבָּר, makbâr) denotes a "thick cloth" or "netted covering," stemming from the root `{{H3527}}` (כָּבַר, kābar) in the sense of covering. Its semantic range emphasizes density, substantiality, and possibly an interwoven texture, as evidenced by its close relation to `{{H4345}}` (מַכְבֵּר, makbēr), meaning "net" or "grating," and `{{H3531}}` (כְּבִיר, kəvîr), "braid" or "mat." The term appears only once in the biblical text, in [[1 Samuel 19:13]], where Michal uses it to cover a teraphim, creating a decoy to facilitate David's escape from Saul. Theologically, while describing a common household item, the "makbâr" plays a crucial role in a moment of deception and divine deliverance, illustrating how ordinary objects and human resourcefulness can be integrated into God's overarching plan for salvation and the establishment of His purposes.
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