### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun עֲטָרָה (ʻăṭârâh), Strong's number `{{H5850}}`, is derived from the verb עָטַר (ʻâṭar), `{{H5849}}`, meaning "to encircle" or "to crown." Its primary semantic range encompasses a circlet, wreath, or diadem placed upon the head. This can be a literal, physical object, such as a king's royal insignia, or a metaphorical representation of honor, glory, dignity, blessing, or reward. The word inherently carries connotations of exaltation, authority, beauty, and often, divine favor when bestowed by God. It signifies a pinnacle of achievement, status, or joy, and conversely, its loss implies profound shame or the removal of power.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ʻăṭârâh appears approximately 35 times in the Old Testament, revealing a rich tapestry of usage:
1. **Royal Authority and Sovereignty:** Most commonly, ʻăṭârâh refers to the crown of a king, symbolizing his rule and power. Examples include the crown taken from the head of the Amalekite who claimed to have killed Saul [[2 Samuel 1:10]], David's acquisition of the crown of the Ammonite king from Rabbah [[2 Samuel 12:30]] / [[1 Chronicles 20:2]], and the crown placed on Queen Esther's head by Ahasuerus [[Esther 2:17]]. The loss of a crown signifies the end of a kingdom or the humiliation of its ruler, as lamented in [[Jeremiah 13:18]] and [[Lamentations 5:16]], where the "crown has fallen from our head" signifies the deep disgrace and loss of sovereignty experienced by Judah.
2. **Honor and Glory:** Beyond literal kingship, ʻăṭârâh frequently denotes a metaphorical "crown" of honor or glory. Wisdom is presented as a "crown of knowledge" [[Proverbs 14:24]] and a "crown of glory" to those who embrace her [[Proverbs 4:9]]. Gray hair, indicative of age and wisdom, is described as a "crown of glory" when found in the way of righteousness [[Proverbs 16:31]] and [[Proverbs 20:29]]. A virtuous wife is considered the "crown of her husband" [[Proverbs 12:4]], signifying her value, honor, and the dignity she brings to him.
3. **Joy and Blessing:** The word can also represent a source of joy, delight, or blessing. "Children's children are the crown of old men" [[Proverbs 17:6]], highlighting the joy and honor derived from one's descendants. In a unique metaphorical usage, the Psalmist declares, "You crown the year with Your bounty" [[Psalm 65:11]], indicating God's abundant provision and blessing that encircles the entire year.
4. **Divine Bestowal:** Significantly, God is often depicted as the one who bestows or removes crowns. He "crowns" His people with steadfast love and mercy [[Psalm 103:4]], emphasizing His covenant faithfulness and protective care. This divine act of crowning underscores that ultimate authority and blessing originate from God.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the verbal root H5849 (עָטַר - ʻâṭar), which means "to encircle," "to surround," or "to crown." This direct etymological link highlights the action of placing a circlet, whether literally or figuratively, around someone or something.
Other Hebrew words that convey similar or related concepts of headwear, authority, or consecration include:
* H6797 (צִיץ - tsîyts): A plate or flower, specifically used for the golden plate on the high priest's turban, which was inscribed "Holy to the Lord" [[Exodus 28:36]]. While a form of headwear, it carries a distinct priestly and dedicatory connotation.
* H5081 (נֵזֶר - nêzer): This term can refer to a diadem or crown, particularly one associated with consecration or separation, like the "crown of anointing oil" on the high priest [[Leviticus 21:12]] or the "crown" of a Nazirite's hair [[Numbers 6:7]]. It emphasizes the idea of being set apart for a special purpose.
The concept of ʻăṭârâh is also closely tied to broader biblical themes such as kingship, priesthood, glory, honor, wisdom, righteousness, divine blessing, and the consequences of sin (loss of honor). In the New Testament, the Greek word for "crown," G4735 (στέφανος - stephanos), carries similar literal and metaphorical meanings, often referring to a victor's wreath or the eschatological rewards for believers, such as the "crown of righteousness" [[2 Timothy 4:8]], the "crown of life" [[James 1:12]] / [[Revelation 2:10]], and the "crown of glory" [[1 Peter 5:4]], providing a theological continuity with the Old Testament understanding of ʻăṭârâh.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ʻăṭârâh is profound and multifaceted.
Firstly, it underscores **divine sovereignty and the source of all authority**. While kings wear earthly crowns, the ultimate Giver of power and honor is God. He "crowns" His people with His attributes (love, mercy, goodness), demonstrating His benevolent rule over creation and His covenant faithfulness [[Psalm 103:4]] / [[Psalm 65:11]]. This implies that any human authority is ultimately derived from and subject to God's will.
Secondly, ʻăṭârâh speaks to **human dignity and exalted status**. In [[Psalm 8:5]], humanity is described as being "crowned with glory and honor" by God, reflecting their unique position as image-bearers and stewards of creation. This highlights the inherent value and high calling placed upon humanity by their Creator.
Thirdly, the metaphorical use of ʻăṭârâh emphasizes the **intrinsic value of wisdom, righteousness, and virtuous living**. These qualities are not merely abstract concepts but are presented as tangible "crowns" that bring honor, dignity, and a flourishing life [[Proverbs 4:9]] / [[Proverbs 12:4]] / [[Proverbs 16:31]]. This teaches that true glory is found not in external adornments but in character shaped by divine principles.
Finally, the concept of the ʻăṭârâh also serves as a stark reminder of **the consequences of sin and disobedience**. The "falling of the crown" in [[Lamentations 5:16]] vividly portrays the loss of divine favor, national identity, and honor due to unfaithfulness. This serves as a theological warning that earthly glory and security are fleeting if not grounded in obedience to God. The Old Testament ʻăṭârâh thus lays foundational concepts for the New Testament's understanding of spiritual crowns as rewards for faithfulness in Christ, connecting earthly honor with eternal recompense.
### Summary
The Hebrew word עֲטָרָה (ʻăṭârâh), `{{H5850}}`, fundamentally denotes a "crown" or "circlet." Its semantic range extends from a literal royal diadem, symbolizing authority and sovereignty, to a rich tapestry of metaphorical meanings encompassing honor, glory, joy, blessing, and dignity. Contextual analysis reveals its use in depicting the power of kings, the honor of wisdom and righteous living, the joy of family, and the abundant provision of God. Theologically, ʻăṭârâh highlights God's ultimate sovereignty as the bestower of all authority and blessing, underscores the inherent dignity of humanity, elevates the value of wisdom and virtue, and serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of losing divine favor. It is a word that powerfully encapsulates both the heights of human achievement and the profound depths of divine grace and judgment.
TRV