a primitive root; to hide by covering; specifically, to roof (passive participle as noun, a roof) or wainscot; figuratively, to reserve; cieled, cover, seated.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **çâphan**, represented by `{{H5603}}`, is a primitive root meaning to **hide by covering**. It is used specifically to describe the act of roofing or paneling a structure, and figuratively, to reserve something. It appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses**, with translations including **covered**, **cieled**, and **seated**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H5603}}` most often refers to the completion and finishing of significant buildings, particularly with valuable materials. Solomon's temple and palace are described as being **covered** with cedar `{{H730}}` beams `{{H1356}}`, boards `{{H7713}}`, and pillars `{{H5982}}` ([[1 Kings 6:9]], [[1 Kings 7:3]]). The porch `{{H197}}` of judgment `{{H4941}}` was also **covered** with cedar from floor to floor [[1 Kings 7:7]]. The term carries a sense of luxury and honor, but it is also used in a rebuke. The prophet Haggai challenges the people for dwelling `{{H3427}}` in their own **cieled** `{{H5603}}` houses `{{H1004}}` while the house `{{H1004}}` of the LORD lies waste `{{H2720}}` [[Haggai 1:4]]. Figuratively, the word is used to describe a privileged status, as when a portion `{{H2513}}` from the lawgiver `{{H2710}}` is **seated** or reserved for a leader of the people `{{H5971}}` [[Deuteronomy 33:21]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and context of **çâphan**:
* `{{H1004}}` **bayith** (a house): This is the primary object that is **covered** or **cieled** using `{{H5603}}`. The state of one's house `{{H1004}}`, whether finely finished or lying waste, is a central theme in its usage [[Haggai 1:4]].
* `{{H1129}}` **bânâh** (to build): This action precedes the work of `{{H5603}}`. Structures are first built `{{H1129}}` and then finished or **covered** [[1 Kings 6:9]], indicating a process of completion.
* `{{H730}}` **ʼerez** (cedar tree): This is the specific material mentioned multiple times for covering and ceiling structures, signifying quality, value, and permanence ([[Jeremiah 22:14]], [[1 Kings 6:9]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5603}}` is seen in how it highlights value and priorities.
* **Bestowing Honor:** To **cover** or **ciel** something, especially with expensive cedar `{{H730}}`, was to bestow honor and significance upon it. This is evident in the construction of the temple and the porch of judgment [[1 Kings 7:7]].
* **Misplaced Devotion:** The word serves as a powerful tool for rebuke. In [[Haggai 1:4]], the comfort of the people's **cieled** houses `{{H1004}}` is contrasted with the neglect of the LORD's house, revealing their misplaced spiritual priorities.
* **Reserved Inheritance:** The figurative use of **seated** in [[Deuteronomy 33:21]] points to the concept of a divinely secured or reserved portion. It signifies a protected and established inheritance provided by the lawgiver `{{H2710}}`.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5603}}` is a specific term that carries both literal and figurative weight. While it appears only a few times, it effectively communicates the idea of finishing, protecting, or setting apart something of value. Whether describing the cedar panels of a king's house or the reserved portion of a tribal leader, **çâphan** underscores the importance of what is covered and what is honored.
TRV