### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **çôchêreth**, represented by `{{H5508}}`, refers to what is probably a black tile or **black marble**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the scriptures, making it a highly specific term used for ornamentation. Its definition suggests a material used for laying decorative borders or tessellated floors.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical appearance of `{{H5508}}` is in the description of the opulent court of the king in Shushan [[Esther 1:6]]. It is listed as one of several luxurious materials used to create a magnificent pavement. The verse details a lavish setting with hangings of various colors fastened with fine linen to silver rings and marble pillars, with beds of gold and silver. The pavement itself was an elaborate mosaic of red, blue, white, and **black** marble, showcasing the immense wealth and grandeur of the Persian empire.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{H5508}}` places it alongside other valuable and colorful materials. Several related words help complete this picture of royal splendor:
* `{{H923}}` **bahaṭ** (red): This word denotes **red (marble)** and is listed immediately before `{{H5508}}` in the description of the pavement [[Esther 1:6]].
* `{{H8504}}` **tᵉkêleth** (blue): Defined as the color **blue**, this word describes both the hangings in the court and one of the types of marble in the pavement [[Esther 1:6]].
* `{{H1858}}` **dar** (white): This term refers to a **white** stone, such as mother-of-pearl or alabaster, and is another component of the multicolored floor [[Esther 1:6]].
* `{{H3701}}` **keçeph** (silver): Mentioned multiple times in the passage, **silver** was used for the rings holding the hangings and for the beds, highlighting the value of the materials used throughout the court [[Esther 1:6]].
### Theological Significance
While `{{H5508}}` itself carries no direct theological weight, its context within a display of worldly riches connects it to broader scriptural themes concerning material wealth.
* **Symbol of Worldly Grandeur:** The primary function of **çôchêreth** in its context is to contribute to a portrait of magnificent human wealth and power, alongside materials like **silver** `{{H3701}}` and gold [[Esther 1:6]].
* **Insufficiency of Wealth:** The **silver** `{{H3701}}` present in this scene of luxury is referenced elsewhere as being unable to provide ultimate deliverance, as noted in the prophecy that neither silver nor gold can save from the LORD'S wrath [[Zephaniah 1:18]].
* **Metaphor for Divine Purification:** In contrast to its use as decoration, **silver** `{{H3701}}` is often used as a metaphor for God's spiritual refinement of His people. God sits as a refiner of **silver** to purify the sons of Levi [[Malachi 3:3]], and He chooses His people in the furnace of affliction, refining them, but "not with **silver**" [[Isaiah 48:10]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5508}}` is a specific term for **black marble** whose importance is derived entirely from its singular context. Its appearance in [[Esther 1:6]] serves to paint a vivid picture of the worldly power and splendor that forms the backdrop of the biblical narrative. While a minor detail, it is part of a larger mosaic of precious materials that scripture uses to contrast earthly riches with divine value and purpose.
TRV