### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **pûwk**, represented by `{{H6320}}`, is derived from an unused root meaning to paint. It refers to a dye, specifically stibium for the eyes, and is translated as **fair colours**, **glistering**, or **paint**. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible, carrying connotations of both beautification and valuable adornment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical contexts, `{{H6320}}` is used both literally and figuratively. Literally, it describes the cosmetic **painting** of the face, as when Jezebel **painted** her face before Jehu’s arrival [[2 Kings 9:30]]. It is also used in a warning to a "spoiled" nation that its attempts to make itself attractive through **painting** are in vain [[Jeremiah 4:30]]. Figuratively, the word signifies beauty and value in construction. David prepared "glistering" stones, described by `{{H6320}}`, for the house of God [[1 Chronicles 29:2]]. God also promises to lay the stones of an afflicted Jerusalem with "fair colours" as part of its glorious restoration [[Isaiah 54:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{H6320}}` in its context of adornment and construction:
* `{{H7760}}` **sûwm**: This primitive root means to put or place, and is used as the verb for applying the **painting** (pûwk) to the face in the account of Jezebel [[2 Kings 9:30]].
* `{{H68}}` **'eben**: Meaning a **stone**, this word is central to the figurative uses of `{{H6320}}`. God promises to lay the **stones** of a restored city with "fair colours," and David prepares "glistering" **stones** for the temple ([[Isaiah 54:11]]; [[1 Chronicles 29:2]]).
* `{{H3302}}` **yâphâh**: A verb meaning to be or **make self fair**. It is used in Jeremiah’s prophecy to describe the futile goal of the nation’s adornment, showing that the external application of **painting** (pûwk) cannot create true beauty [[Jeremiah 4:30]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6320}}` is found in its contrasting applications, highlighting the difference between divine and human beautification.
* **Divine Restoration:** In [[Isaiah 54:11]], God promises to transform an afflicted and tempest-tossed people by laying their very foundations with "fair colours." This represents a beauty and stability that only God can provide, turning suffering into glory.
* **Vain Adornment:** The word is used to critique superficial efforts to cover inner ruin. A spoiled nation "rentest" its face with **painting**, but it is in vain as its lovers will despise it [[Jeremiah 4:30]]. Similarly, Jezebel’s cosmetic preparation does not alter her fate [[2 Kings 9:30]].
* **Preciousness in Worship:** The "glistering stones" prepared by David for the temple were valuable materials gathered with "all my might" for the house of God [[1 Chronicles 29:2]]. Here, `{{H6320}}` describes something precious and dedicated to a sacred purpose.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6320}}` is a term with a dual focus. While it can refer to the literal act of applying eye **paint**, its deeper significance lies in the contrast it presents. It represents the glorious and valuable beauty of God's restorative work and the materials consecrated for His house ([[Isaiah 54:11]]; [[1 Chronicles 29:2]]). Conversely, it illustrates the futility of human attempts to use external adornment to mask internal decay and judgment [[Jeremiah 4:30]].
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