### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **çêphel**, represented by `{{H5602}}`, refers to a **basin, bowl, or dish**. Derived from a root meaning to depress, it suggests a vessel that is deepened or hollowed out. It is a rare term, appearing only **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible, yet each instance places it in a significant narrative moment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H5602}}` functions as a container in two distinct contexts. In the Song of Deborah, Jael brings forth butter `{{H2529}}` in a "lordly **dish**" for Sisera after he asked for water [[Judges 5:25]]. Here, it is a vessel of hospitality, albeit a deceptive one. In the story of Gideon, after he thrusts a fleece `{{H1492}}` together, he wrings out enough dew to fill a "**bowl**" with water `{{H4325}}`, serving as the physical evidence of a divine sign [[Judges 6:38]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context in which `{{H5602}}` is used:
* `{{H117}}` **ʼaddîyr** (lordly): This adjective is used to describe the **dish** in [[Judges 5:25]], elevating it from a common utensil to one that is noble, excellent, or worthy. This term is also used to describe nobles or the principal men of a flock [[Jeremiah 25:34]].
* `{{H1492}}` **gâzzah** (fleece): The **bowl** in Gideon's story is directly linked to the **fleece** from which the water was produced, acting as the measure of the miraculous sign [[Judges 6:38]].
* `{{H4680}}` **mâtsâh** (wring (out)): This is the action that fills the **bowl** `{{H5602}}`. Gideon **wringed** the dew from the fleece, demonstrating the abundance of the moisture God provided [[Judges 6:38]].
* `{{H2461}}` **châlâb** (milk): While Sisera asked for water, Jael gave him **milk** and presented butter in the lordly dish `{{H5602}}`, showing an offering of richness and substance [[Judges 5:25]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H5602}}` is tied to its narrative function as a vessel that holds something of consequence.
* **Vessel of Hospitality and Deception:** The "lordly dish" in [[Judges 5:25]] is an instrument of hospitality that ultimately leads to the downfall of an enemy of Israel. It represents a rich offering that masks a deadly intent.
* **Container of Divine Confirmation:** The **bowl** in [[Judges 6:38]] holds the tangible proof of God's promise to Gideon. Its fullness `{{H4393}}` with water `{{H4325}}` from dew `{{H2919}}` is a miraculous sign meant to dispel doubt and confirm God's presence.
* **Symbol of Abundance:** In both cases, the bowl or dish contains something rich or plentiful—butter from milk, and a full measure of water. It is not just a container but one that holds a significant, bountiful substance.
### Summary
In summary, while **çêphel** `{{H5602}}` is used infrequently, it plays a memorable role in scripture. It is more than a simple dish; it is a narrative device used as a container for hospitality in one instance and as the measure of a divine sign in another. These two occurrences show how an ordinary object can be imbued with importance, carrying symbolic weight in moments of both human action and divine intervention.
TRV