### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **maʻăṭeh**, represented by `{{H4594}}`, means **a vestment; garment**. It is a rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its significance is derived entirely from its single, powerful use in the book of Isaiah, where it symbolizes a divine exchange of despair for praise.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H4594}}` is in [[Isaiah 61:3]]. In this passage, the LORD promises to appoint comfort to those who mourn in Zion. The verse describes a series of transformative gifts: beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, and finally, "the **garment** of praise for the spirit of heaviness." This context establishes the **garment** not as a mere piece of clothing, but as a spiritual provision intended to counteract and replace a state of despair.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only context illuminate the meaning of `{{H4594}}`:
* `{{H8416}}` **tehillâh** (praise): This word, meaning "laudation; specifically (concretely) a hymn; praise," is directly paired with **maʻăṭeh** to form the "garment of **praise**," indicating the nature of the vestment given by God [[Isaiah 61:3]].
* `{{H7307}}` **rûwach** (spirit): Meaning "spirit," this word describes the internal condition that the garment is meant to cover and replace. The "garment of praise" is the remedy for the "**spirit** of heaviness" [[Isaiah 61:3]].
* `{{H3544}}` **kêheh** (heaviness): Defined as "feeble, obscure;... heaviness," this term describes the quality of the spirit being overcome. The **garment** of praise is the divine antidote to this state of feebleness and obscurity [[Isaiah 61:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4594}}` is concentrated in its single appearance, highlighting several key themes.
* **Divine Exchange:** The core theological concept surrounding `{{H4594}}` is the principle of divine exchange. God does not simply remove the spirit of heaviness `{{H3544}}`; He actively gives a **garment** of praise `{{H8416}}` in its place, replacing what is feeble and obscure with what is glorious [[Isaiah 61:3]].
* **Tangible Transformation:** The use of the word **garment** suggests an outward, visible transformation. It signifies that the internal change from mourning `{{H60}}` to joy `{{H8342}}` is so complete that it is worn as an identity, much like a piece of clothing.
* **Purpose for God's Glory:** The ultimate purpose of receiving this **garment** is revealed in the same verse. This transformation allows people to be called "trees `{{H352}}` of righteousness `{{H6664}}`," which are the "planting `{{H4302}}` of the LORD `{{H3068}}`," so that "he might be glorified `{{H6286}}`" [[Isaiah 61:3]].
### Summary
In summary, while **maʻăṭeh** `{{H4594}}` appears only once, its meaning is profound. As the "garment of praise," it is not simply clothing but a symbol of God's restorative power. It represents a divine gift that replaces an internal state of heaviness with an outward identity of praise. This single occurrence in scripture powerfully illustrates God's intention to transform His people from mourning to joy for the ultimate purpose of His own glory.
TRV