### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼêphôwd**, represented by `{{H646}}`, appears **49 times** across **39 unique verses**. The term primarily refers to a **girdle** or **shoulder-piece**, most notably the one worn by the high priest. However, it can also describe a simpler linen garment or even an **image** used in idolatrous worship, highlighting its complex role in scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The `{{H646}}` is described in several distinct contexts. In its most elaborate form, it is a key component of the high priest's holy garments, made with **cunning work** of gold, blue, purple, scarlet, and fine twined linen [[Exodus 28:6]]. It was worn by **Aaron** and his descendants when ministering before the LORD [[Leviticus 8:7]]. A simpler linen **ephod** was worn by others in service to God, such as the young **Samuel** [[1 Samuel 2:18]] and **David** when he danced before the ark [[2 Samuel 6:14]]. Conversely, the term is also used for an object of false worship, as when **Gideon** made an **ephod** that became a **snare** to Israel [[Judges 8:27]], or when **Micah** included one in his **house of gods** [[Judges 17:5]]. The **ephod** was also used to inquire of the LORD, as when **David** requested it from **Abiathar** the priest to seek divine guidance [[1 Samuel 23:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the function and context of the **ephod**:
* `{{H2833}}` **chôshen** (breastplate): This sacred item was integrally connected to the **ephod**. The scriptures command that the **breastplate** be bound to the **ephod** with a lace of blue so that it would not be loosed from it [[Exodus 28:28]].
* `{{H906}}` **bad** (linen): This specifies the material of the simpler form of the **ephod**. It was a **linen** ephod that **Samuel** ministered in as a child [[1 Samuel 2:18]] and that **David** was girded with [[2 Samuel 6:14]].
* `{{H8655}}` **tᵉrâphîym** (teraphim): These family idols are often mentioned alongside the **ephod** in contexts of apostasy. **Micah** made both an **ephod** and **teraphim** [[Judges 17:5]], and Hosea prophesied a time when Israel would be without either an **ephod** or **teraphim** [[Hosea 3:4]].
* `{{H2805}}` **chêsheb** (curious girdle): This was the intricately woven belt specifically designed as part of the priestly **ephod**, used to bind the garment to the priest [[Leviticus 8:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H646}}` is twofold, representing both legitimate worship and forbidden idolatry.
* **Priestly Consecration:** As part of the high priest's holy garments, the **ephod** was a symbol of his unique role to minister before the LORD [[1 Samuel 2:28]]. The stones on its shoulders served as a **memorial** of the children of Israel, borne before God [[Exodus 28:12]].
* **Divine Inquiry:** The **ephod** was a sanctioned means for seeking God's will. **David**'s use of the **ephod** through the priest **Abiathar** shows its role as a conduit for divine guidance for the leader of God's people [[1 Samuel 30:7]].
* **Idolatrous Corruption:** When made and used outside of God's specific commands, the **ephod** became an object of apostasy. **Gideon's** **ephod** caused Israel to go "a whoring after it" [[Judges 8:27]], demonstrating how a sacred object could be perverted into a snare. Its association with **teraphim** further cements its connection to idolatry [[Judges 17:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H646}}` is a term with a powerful dual meaning. It represents the sacred, divinely-commanded garment of the high priest, essential for ministry and seeking God's guidance. At the same time, it serves as a stark warning, illustrating how religious objects, when created by human design apart from God's word, can become instruments of idolatry and a **snare** to the people. The **ephod** thus encapsulates the critical distinction between true worship and human-centered rebellion.
TRV