### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **çᵉphîynâh**, represented by `{{H5600}}`, is a specific term for a **ship**. It appears only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible. The term derives from a root meaning to ceil or cover, suggesting a sea-going vessel that is ceiled with a deck.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{H5600}}` is found in the narrative of Jonah. In the midst of a great storm, the mariners desperately cast cargo from their ship `{{H591}}` into the sea `{{H3220}}` to lighten it. In stark contrast, the text notes that "Jonah was gone down into the sides of the **ship** `{{H5600}}`; and he lay, and was fast asleep" [[Jonah 1:5]]. This specific word pinpoints the exact location of Jonah's retreat within the larger vessel, highlighting his attempt to hide from his divine calling.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide the maritime context for the use of `{{H5600}}`:
* `{{H591}}` **ʼŏnîyâh** (a ship): This is a more general term for a ship, used multiple times in the Jonah narrative to describe the vessel he boarded to flee from the Lord [[Jonah 1:3]]. Its use in [[Jonah 1:5]] alongside `{{H5600}}` creates a distinction between the overall vessel and its inner chambers.
* `{{H4419}}` **mallâch** (a sailor (as following 'the salt'); mariner): These are the men who operate the ship. In the account, the mariners `{{H4419}}` are depicted in a state of fear, crying out to their gods and fighting to save the vessel while Jonah sleeps [[Jonah 1:5]].
* `{{H3220}}` **yâm** (a sea... or large body of water): This word establishes the setting for the entire event. The sea is both the path of Jonah's flight and the instrument of divine intervention, as the Lord sends a mighty tempest upon it [[Jonah 1:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H5600}}` is derived entirely from its unique context in the book of Jonah.
* **A Place of Futile Escape:** The **ship** `{{H5600}}` represents the physical space where Jonah attempts to hide from God's presence. By going down into its sides, he seeks refuge, but the storm demonstrates that no physical structure can shield one from divine sovereignty [[Jonah 1:5]].
* **A Portrait of Disobedience:** While the pagan mariners are active on the upper decks, Jonah is passive and asleep in the inner part of the **ship** `{{H5600}}`. The word helps frame the scene, contrasting the sailors' panic with the prophet's willful ignorance and dereliction of duty.
* **Human Structure vs. Divine Power:** The use of a word implying a decked or covered vessel underscores the frailty of human constructions. The secure, ceiled interior of the **ship** `{{H5600}}` is of no consequence when God hurls a great wind upon the sea [[Jonah 1:4]].
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H5600}}` is one of the rarest words in the biblical lexicon, its single appearance is highly significant. It does more than simply mean "ship"; it specifies the enclosed, inner part of the vessel where Jonah sought to withdraw from his responsibility. This precise detail adds a crucial layer to his story, illustrating the futility of trying to hide from God and setting the stage for the dramatic events that follow.
TRV