The Hebrew word tsebaʻ, represented by H6648, is derived from an unused root meaning to dip into coloring fluid. Its resulting definition is a dye; divers, colours. This specific term appears 3 times, all within a single verse in the Bible, highlighting its focused application in a particular context.
The sole appearance of H6648 is in the Song of Deborah, where it vividly describes the spoils of war. In this passage, the mother of Sisera speculates that he and his men are delayed because they are dividing the plunder. She imagines for Sisera himself "a prey of divers colours, a prey of divers colours of needlework, of divers colours of needlework on both sides" Judges 5:30. The repetition of the term emphasizes the richness and value of the dyed textiles taken as booty.
Several related words in the context of Judges 5:30 illuminate the meaning of tsebaʻ:
- H7998 shâlâl (booty; prey, spoil): This word establishes the context for tsebaʻ, identifying the colored fabrics as part of the plunder taken after a battle. It is used to describe both the spoil in general and the colored garments specifically Judges 5:30.
- H2505 châlaq (to apportion or separate; divide): This term describes the action being performed with the spoil. The victors are imagined as they "divided the prey" Judges 5:30, which includes the garments of divers colours.
- H7553 riqmâh (variegation of color; specifically, embroidery): This word appears alongside tsebaʻ to provide a more detailed description of the spoil. It specifies that the items of "divers colours" are also "of needlework," indicating intricate and valuable craftsmanship Judges 5:30.
While appearing only once, the context of H6648 contributes to the narrative's themes:
- Spoils of War: The "prey of divers colours" is presented as a prize of great value, a tangible symbol of military conquest. The specific mention of these dyed and embroidered fabrics highlights the wealth and luxury that victors claimed from the vanquished Judges 5:30.
- Dramatic Irony: The word is used within a speculative speech by Sisera's mother, who imagines him enjoying the finest plunder. This description of rich, colored garments creates a stark contrast with the reality known to the reader: Sisera has been defeated and killed, and will never receive this spoil.
- Value and Craftsmanship: Paired with riqmâh (needlework), tsebaʻ points to items of significant artistry and cost. The description of "needlework on both sides" Judges 5:30 further implies a high level of craftsmanship, making it a fitting prize for a victorious general.
In summary, tsebaʻ H6648 provides a specific and vivid term for "divers colours," referring to dyed textiles. Its singular but repeated use within Judges 5:30 firmly anchors its meaning to the context of valuable plunder taken in war. The word serves to illustrate the expectations of a victor's reward, thereby heightening the dramatic power of the narrative by describing the rich spoil that the defeated Sisera would never claim.
TRV