### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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