### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic term *çarbal* (`{{H5622}}`) is defined as a "cloak" or "coat." Its derivation is noted as uncertain, which is common for some Aramaic loanwords or technical terms. The core meaning points to an outer garment, likely one that is substantial or formal, designed for covering or enclosing the body. Given its limited occurrences, its precise nature beyond a general "outer garment" is gleaned primarily from its specific biblical context. It appears to denote a distinct type of apparel, differentiated from other items of clothing mentioned alongside it.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word *çarbal* (`{{H5622}}`) appears exclusively in the book of Daniel, specifically in chapter 3. Its occurrences are limited to two verses, [[Daniel 3:21]] and [[Daniel 3:27]]. In both instances, it is listed as one of the garments worn by Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego when they were cast into Nebuchadnezzar's fiery furnace.
The full list of garments in [[Daniel 3:21]] includes their "cloaks (*çarbal*), their tunics (`{{H3927}}`), their turbans (`{{H3301}}`), and their other garments." This detailed enumeration suggests that *çarbal* refers to a specific and recognizable article of clothing, distinct from the inner tunic or headwear. The context is crucial: these men, high officials in the Babylonian court, were dressed in what appears to be their official or formal attire when they defied the king's decree.
The miraculous preservation described in [[Daniel 3:27]] emphasizes that not only were the men themselves unharmed, but "the fire had not had any power over the bodies of those men, nor had the hair of their heads been singed, nor had their cloaks (*çarbal*) been damaged, nor had the smell of fire come upon them." The inclusion of the *çarbal* and other garments in this description underscores the completeness of God's protective power. The fact that even the outer garments, which would be most exposed to the intense heat, were untouched by fire or even smoke, serves as undeniable evidence of divine intervention.
### Related Words & Concepts
While *çarbal* (`{{H5622}}`) is unique in its specific Aramaic form and limited biblical appearances, it relates to broader biblical concepts concerning clothing and divine protection.
1. **Garment Terminology:** It belongs to the semantic field of clothing, alongside Hebrew terms like `{{H8071}}` *śimlâ* (outer garment, cloak), `{{H3830}}` *lᵉbûš* (general term for clothing), and `{{H3680}}` *kᵉtōnet* (tunic, inner garment). Its specific mention in Daniel 3 alongside other distinct garments suggests it was a particular type of outer robe, perhaps indicative of status or office.
2. **Symbolism of Clothing:** In biblical thought, clothing often symbolizes identity, status, purity, or defilement. Here, the preservation of the *çarbal* and other garments symbolizes the complete integrity and purity of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, untouched by the defiling power of the furnace, much as their faith remained untainted.
3. **Divine Preservation:** The account directly connects *çarbal* to the theme of God's absolute power to preserve His servants. This concept is echoed throughout Scripture, from Noah in the ark to the Israelites crossing the Red Sea, demonstrating God's ability to protect His own from destructive forces.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of *çarbal* (`{{H5622}}`) is inextricably linked to the miraculous deliverance of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego.
1. **Divine Sovereignty Over Creation:** The unburnt *çarbal* serves as a powerful testament to God's absolute sovereignty over all creation, including the natural elements. Fire, normally destructive, became an instrument of divine demonstration rather than an agent of harm. This highlights that God is not limited by natural laws and can suspend or control them at His will.
2. **Witness to God's Faithfulness:** The intact garments provided undeniable, tangible proof to King Nebuchadnezzar and his court of the reality and power of the God of Israel. The visible evidence of the unmarred *çarbal* and other clothing compelled the king to acknowledge the unique power of their God, leading to a decree that honored Him ([[Daniel 3:28-29]]). This illustrates how God uses the faithfulness of His servants and His miraculous interventions to reveal Himself to the nations.
3. **Integrity and Holiness Preserved:** The fact that even their outer garments, the *çarbal*, were not singed or even smelled of smoke, underscores the complete and unblemished preservation of the three men. It signifies their total integrity and holiness, maintained through their unwavering faithfulness to God in the face of death. They emerged from the furnace not merely alive, but utterly untainted, symbolizing the spiritual purity of those who trust in the Lord.
### Summary
The Aramaic word *çarbal* (`{{H5622}}`) refers to a "cloak" or "coat," an outer garment primarily encountered in Daniel 3. Its significance is not in its etymology, which is uncertain, but in its profound contextual usage. The miraculous preservation of the *çarbal* and other garments of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego within Nebuchadnezzar's fiery furnace serves as a powerful biblical illustration of God's absolute sovereignty over creation, His complete protection of His faithful servants, and the undeniable witness He provides to the world through their steadfastness. The unburnt *çarbal* symbolizes the unblemished integrity and divine preservation of those who remain loyal to God, even amidst the most severe trials.
TRV