The Hebrew word ʻăṭârâh, represented by H5850, is a term for a crown. It appears 23 times across 23 unique verses in the Bible. Derived from the root H5849 ʻâṭar, meaning to encircle, it denotes a literal crown worn by royalty but is also used figuratively to represent honor, glory, and blessing.
In its literal sense, H5850 refers to the royal headwear of kings. David took the golden crown from a conquered king's head 2 Samuel 12:30, and Mordecai wore a great crown of gold when he was elevated in the kingdom Esther 8:15. It is also used to describe the crown King Solomon wore on his wedding day Song of Solomon 3:11. The term is frequently used metaphorically to symbolize honor and virtue. A virtuous woman is described as a crown to her husband Proverbs 12:4, and grandchildren are the crown of old men Proverbs 17:6. Conversely, the loss of a crown signifies a loss of honor and glory, with the prophet lamenting that the crown is fallen from our head because of sin Lamentations 5:16.
Several related words help define the scope of honor and authority associated with a crown:
- H5849 ʻâṭar (to encircle... especially to crown): The root verb from which H5850 is derived. It is used in the description of Solomon's coronation, where his mother crowned him with the crown Song of Solomon 3:11.
- H8597 tiphʼârâh (ornament... beauty... glory): This word is often paired with H5850 to describe a "crown of glory." This combination appears in contexts of righteousness, such as the hoary head being a crown of glory Proverbs 16:31, and in prophetic promises of God's blessing Isaiah 62:3.
- H4701 mitsnepheth (a tiara, i.e. official turban... diadem, mitre): This term for a priestly or royal turban is used alongside H5850 in Ezekiel's prophecy, which calls for the removal of the diadem and the taking off of the crown, signifying a major shift in authority Ezekiel 21:26.
The theological weight of H5850 is demonstrated through its use as a symbol of both human and divine glory.
- Symbol of Blessing and Righteousness: The crown represents the fruit of a virtuous life. Grandchildren are the crown of old men Proverbs 17:6, and a hoary head is a crown of glory if found in the way of righteousness Proverbs 16:31. Conversely, losing the crown signifies judgment for sin Lamentations 5:16.
- Royal and Priestly Authority: As a literal object, the crown denotes the authority of kings 1 Chronicles 20:2 and the high priest Zechariah 6:11. This authority is God-given and can be removed by Him, as seen when the command is given to "take off the crown" Ezekiel 21:26.
- Divine Glory: The metaphor extends to God Himself, who is prophesied to be a crown of glory to His people Isaiah 28:5. His people, in turn, become a crown of glory in His hand, signifying their value to Him and His restoration of their honor Isaiah 62:3.
In summary, H5850 extends far beyond the literal headwear of a monarch. It serves as a powerful biblical symbol for honor, authority, and righteousness. From the tangible gold crown set on a king's head Psalms 21:3 to the metaphorical crown of a virtuous wife Proverbs 12:4, the word illustrates what is worthy of the highest respect. Ultimately, it points to the honor bestowed by God, who is Himself the ultimate crown of glory for His people.
TRV