or עֹב; from an unused root meaning to cover; properly, equivalent to עָב; but used only as an architectural term,; an architrave (as shading the pillars); thick (beam, plant).
Transliteration:ʻâb
Pronunciation:awb
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H5646}}` (ʻâb), or its variant עֹב, derives from an unused root signifying "to cover." This foundational meaning of covering or enveloping is crucial to understanding its semantic range. Primarily, `{{H5646}}` functions as an architectural term. It specifically denotes an "architrave," which is the main beam resting upon columns, often serving to provide shade or cover. Beyond this precise architectural application, the word also carries the more general sense of "thickness," being used to describe a "thick beam" or even a "thick plant." Thus, the core meaning encompasses both the act of covering and the quality of substantial density.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The occurrences of `{{H5646}}` in the Hebrew Bible are limited but significant, primarily appearing in contexts related to the construction and description of sacred structures.
In [[1 Kings 7:6]], the term appears in the plural (ʻabim) in the description of Solomon's "Porch of Pillars." Here, it refers to the "thick beams" or "architrave" that rested upon the pillars, indicating a substantial architectural element designed for support and perhaps to create a shaded entryway. This usage perfectly aligns with the primary architectural definition of the word.
Similarly, in [[Ezekiel 41:25]], within the detailed vision of the future temple, `{{H5646}}` describes the "thick planks" or "thick beams" used in the outer wall of the sanctuary. This again highlights its function as a robust structural component, emphasizing the solidity and grandeur of the envisioned temple.
A slightly different, yet related, application is found in [[2 Chronicles 3:9]]. Here, the text states that the upper chambers of the temple were overlaid with "thick plates" of gold. While not a beam, the "thick plates" still convey the sense of substantial density and, importantly, a covering or overlay. This demonstrates the word's flexibility to describe any substantial, dense material used for construction or cladding.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of `{{H5646}}` is closely tied to its root meaning of "to cover." This connects it to a broader group of Hebrew words related to concealment, protection, and density. Most notably, it shares a strong conceptual link with `{{H5645}}` (ʻab), which means "cloud" or "thick cloud." While distinct in usage (`{{H5645}}` refers to atmospheric phenomena), the underlying notion of "thickness" or "density" and "covering" (clouds cover the sky) is shared. This suggests a common etymological root or a very close semantic relationship.
Other related concepts include:
* Words for "covering" or "veil": e.g., `{{H3680}}` (kasah, to cover, conceal), `{{H4372}}` (mekasseh, covering).
* Architectural terms for structural elements: e.g., `{{H5982}}` ('ammud, pillar), `{{H6086}}` ('ets, wood, beam).
* Words denoting "thickness" or "density": e.g., `{{H5670}}` ('aboth, thicket, dense growth).
The connection to "cloud" (`{{H5645}}`) is particularly insightful, as it underscores the inherent quality of density and the act of covering that defines `{{H5646}}`.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H5646}}` primarily emerges from its exclusive use in descriptions of the Temple and its associated structures. The repeated emphasis on "thick beams," "thick planks," and "thick plates" for the sacred dwelling place of God highlights several key aspects:
1. **Divine Majesty and Stability:** The use of substantial, thick materials speaks to the grandeur, permanence, and immutability associated with God's presence. The temple, built with such robust elements, was a physical testament to the enduring nature of the divine covenant and the stability of God's dwelling among His people.
2. **Sacred Enclosure and Separation:** The "covering" aspect inherent in the word's root meaning (and its function as an architrave or thick plate) contributes to the idea of a sacred, enclosed space. The temple's structure, including these substantial elements, served to separate the holy from the common, creating a distinct realm for divine encounter and worship.
3. **Meticulous Craftsmanship for God:** The detailed description of these architectural components underscores the high quality and meticulous care expected in constructing God's house. It reflects the reverence and devotion of those who built and envisioned these sacred spaces, dedicating the best materials and craftsmanship to the Lord.
4. **Subtle Echoes of Divine Presence:** While not explicitly theological, the shared semantic root with words for "cloud" (`{{H5645}}`) can evoke a subtle connection to the "cloud of glory" (e.g., [[Exodus 40:34-35]]) that symbolized God's presence in the Tabernacle and Temple. The "thickness" of the architectural elements might, in a metaphorical sense, parallel the "thickness" of the divine cloud, both serving as a form of covering or enclosure for the manifestation of God's glory.
### Summary
`{{H5646}}` (ʻâb) is a Hebrew term rooted in the concept of "covering," primarily functioning as an architectural descriptor for an "architrave" or a "thick beam/plank/plate." Its biblical occurrences are concentrated in descriptions of the Temple in [[1 Kings]], [[2 Chronicles]], and [[Ezekiel]], where it denotes substantial structural elements contributing to the building's solidity and grandeur. Semantically related to words like `{{H5645}}` ("cloud") due to the shared notion of thickness and covering, `{{H5646}}` contributes to our understanding of the Temple as a place of divine majesty, stability, and sacred separation. It underscores the meticulous care and substantial nature of God's dwelling place, reflecting the reverence due to the Holy One.
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