### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **malbûwsh**, represented by `{{H4403}}`, is a term for **a garment, or (collectively) clothing**. Derived from the root word for "to clothe," it appears 8 times across 7 unique verses in scripture. This noun is used to refer to apparel, raiment, and vestments, often carrying significant symbolic weight beyond mere physical covering.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H4403}}` is used to denote status, wealth, and spiritual condition. It describes the magnificent **apparel** of Solomon's ministers and cupbearers, which so astonished the Queen of Sheba that "there was no more spirit in her" ([[1 Kings 10:5]], [[2 Chronicles 9:4]]). In a prophetic context, it depicts Jerusalem's God-given beauty, whose **raiment** was of fine linen, silk, and broidered work [[Ezekiel 16:13]]. Conversely, it is used in scenes of judgment, as when the LORD's **raiment** is stained with the blood of those He tramples in His fury [[Isaiah 63:3]], and when He promises to punish those wearing "strange **apparel**" [[Zephaniah 1:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and context of clothing:
* `{{H3847}}` **lâbash** (to put on a garment): This is the primitive root from which `{{H4403}}` is derived. It is used to describe the act of being **clothed** with the "strange apparel" that invites judgment [[Zephaniah 1:8]].
* `{{H899}}` **beged** (a covering, i.e. clothing): This word is used in parallel with `{{H4403}}` to describe the divine warrior's **garments** being sprinkled with blood during judgment [[Isaiah 63:3]].
* `{{H1168}}` **Baʻal** (a Phoenician deity): Specific **vestments** `{{H4403}}` were brought forth for all the worshippers of **Baal**, identifying them for judgment [[2 Kings 10:22]].
* `{{H2091}}` **zâhâb** (gold): This precious metal is mentioned alongside fine **raiment** `{{H4403}}` to describe the immense beauty and blessing bestowed upon Jerusalem [[Ezekiel 16:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H4403}}` is evident in its various applications, where clothing often represents an outward sign of an inward reality.
* **Symbol of Blessing and Status:** The quality of one's **apparel** can signify divine favor and prosperity, as seen in the splendor of Solomon's court [[1 Kings 10:5]] and the rich **raiment** God provided for Jerusalem [[Ezekiel 16:13]].
* **Marker of Idolatry and Rebellion:** Wearing certain types of clothing can indicate allegiance to false gods or foreign customs. God condemns "strange **apparel**" [[Zephaniah 1:8]] and the specific **vestments** of Baal's worshippers are directly linked to their destruction [[2 Kings 10:22]].
* **Imagery of Divine Judgment:** The most striking use of `{{H4403}}` is in the vision of the LORD as a divine warrior, whose **raiment** is stained by the execution of His fury against His enemies [[Isaiah 63:3]].
* **Sign of Futile Wealth:** Job uses the image of a wicked man preparing **raiment** as plentifully as clay to illustrate the worthlessness of ill-gotten gains [[Job 27:16]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4403}}` **malbûwsh** is more than just a word for clothing. It functions as a powerful symbol in scripture, representing a person's or nation's status, wealth, and spiritual identity. From the glorious apparel of a prosperous kingdom to the blood-stained raiment of a divine judge, this word illustrates how physical garments can signify profound spiritual truths and consequences.
TRV