### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **pᵉʼêr**, represented by `{{H6287}}`, describes an **embellishment** or **fancy head-dress**. It appears **7 times** across **7 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from the root meaning to gleam or embellish `{{H6286}}`, this term signifies more than mere decoration, often carrying concepts of beauty, honor, and ceremonial importance, translated as beauty, bonnet, goodly, ornament, or tire.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its literal application, `{{H6287}}` refers to specific head coverings. For priests, it describes the **goodly bonnets** `{{H4021}}` of fine linen worn as part of their sacred attire [[Exodus 39:28]]. These linen **bonnets** were to be worn upon their heads so they would not gird themselves with anything that causes sweat, signifying a holy service [[Ezekiel 44:18]]. In a context of judgment, the prophet Ezekiel is commanded to **bind** the **tire** `{{H6287}}` of his head on, forgoing traditional signs of mourning [[Ezekiel 24:17]]. Metaphorically, it is used to represent the **beauty** God gives to the mourning in Zion as a replacement for **ashes** `{{H665}}` [[Isaiah 61:3]], and as the **ornaments** with which a **bridegroom** `{{H2860}}` decks himself [[Isaiah 61:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and use of `{{H6287}}`:
* `{{H6286}}` **pâʼar** (to embellish, glorify): This is the root verb from which `{{H6287}}` is derived. Its connection is seen directly in the promise that God's people will be called trees of righteousness so that He might be **glorified** [[Isaiah 61:3]], a verse where He gives them **beauty** `{{H6287}}` for ashes.
* `{{H2280}}` **châbash** (to wrap firmly, bind up): This verb is used to describe the action taken with the head-dress. In a sign of suppressed grief, Ezekiel is commanded to **bind** the tire `{{H6287}}` on his head [[Ezekiel 24:17]], showing its secure placement.
* `{{H4021}}` **migbâʻâh** (bonnet): This word for a cap is used in conjunction with `{{H6287}}` to describe the "goodly **bonnets**" that were part of the priests' holy garments [[Exodus 39:28]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6287}}` is expressed through its symbolic applications.
* **Divine Transformation:** Its most powerful use is in illustrating God's redemptive work. He promises to give **beauty** `{{H6287}}` for **ashes** `{{H665}}` and the **oil** `{{H8081}}` of **joy** `{{H8342}}` for **mourning** `{{H60}}`, signifying a complete reversal of sorrow and despair into divinely-given splendor [[Isaiah 61:3]].
* **Symbol of Righteousness and Salvation:** When a person is clothed with the garments of **salvation** `{{H3468}}` and the robe of **righteousness** `{{H6666}}`, it is likened to a bridegroom decking himself with **ornaments** `{{H6287}}`. This connects the head-dress to the joy and honor of being right with God [[Isaiah 61:10]].
* **A Sign of Atypical Mourning:** In a stark contrast, Ezekiel is told to keep his **tire** `{{H6287}}` on his head as a sign of a grief so deep that it transcends normal expression. The people will likewise **pine away** `{{H4743}}` for their **iniquities** `{{H5771}}` with their tires on their heads, unable to mourn outwardly [[Ezekiel 24:23]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6287}}` moves beyond a simple article of clothing to become a rich biblical symbol. Whether as a literal linen bonnet on a priest, an ornament on a joyful bridegroom, or a metaphor for God's restorative beauty, **pᵉʼêr** consistently points to a state of honor, glory, and special status. It powerfully illustrates the transition from mourning to joy and serves as a visible marker of both priestly consecration and the righteousness bestowed by God.
TRV