The Hebrew word neqeb, represented by H5345, is defined as a bezel (for a gem); pipe. It is a rare term, appearing only 1 times across 1 unique verses in the Bible.
The sole appearance of H5345 is in Ezekiel 28:13, within a description of a being of great splendor in Eden H5731, the garden H1588 of God H430. The verse details a covering H4540 of every precious H3368 stone H68, noting that "the workmanship H4399 of thy tabrets H8596 and of thy pipes was prepared in thee in the day H3117 that thou wast created H1254" Ezekiel 28:13. Here, neqeb is part of the inherent, created magnificence of this figure, associated with either musical instruments or the settings for the numerous gems.
Several related words from its only context help illuminate the meaning of H5345:
- H8596 tôph (a tambourine; tabret, timbrel): This word is used in direct parallel with H5345 in Ezekiel 28:13, linking neqeb to musical instruments and worship.
- H1254 bârâʼ (to create): This root word establishes the context for H5345, indicating that the "pipes" were an integral part of this being's original state from the moment of its creation Ezekiel 28:13.
- H4399 mᵉlâʼkâh (workmanship): This term describes the nature of the "pipes" and "tabrets," highlighting them as examples of divine, skillful creation Ezekiel 28:13.
- H3559 kûwn (to set up, in a great variety of applications... establish, fix, prepare, apply): This word shows that the "pipes" were divinely established and made ready as part of the being's design from the very beginning Ezekiel 28:13.
The theological weight of H5345 is derived entirely from its unique placement in scripture.
- Innate Glory: The "pipes" were not an acquired skill or possession, but were part of the being's very makeup, as the workmanship H4399 was prepared H3559 within it from the day of creation Ezekiel 28:13. This points to a God-given, inherent splendor.
- Purpose of Praise: The pairing of pipes with tabrets H8596 strongly suggests a function related to music and worship, fitting for a resident of the garden H1588 of God H430.
- Created Perfection: The mention of these perfectly crafted instruments is part of a larger description of a being in a state of perfection. The word H5345 is linked to the moment of creation by God, emphasizing the flawless nature of God's original works.
In summary, H5345 is a term whose entire meaning is derived from a single, powerful passage. Whether a musical "pipe" or a "bezel" for a gem, neqeb represents the pinnacle of created beauty and innate purpose. Its placement in Ezekiel 28:13 serves to magnify the original glory of a being in Eden, highlighting the perfection of God's craftsmanship.
TRV