### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qôwbaʻ**, represented by `{{H6959}}`, is the term for a **helmet**. It is a relatively rare word, appearing just **2 times** in **2 unique verses**. Its meaning is straightforward, referring to a piece of defensive armor worn on the head for protection in battle.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, `{{H6959}}` is used in literal, military contexts. In the narrative of David and Goliath, Saul attempts to equip David with his own armor, putting a **helmet** of brass on his head [[1 Samuel 17:38]]. Later, in a prophetic oracle, the prophet Ezekiel describes a great army that will come against Israel, equipped with a full array of weaponry, including buckler, shield, and **helmet** [[Ezekiel 23:24]]. In both instances, the word denotes a physical piece of a soldier's equipment.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words for armor and weaponry appear alongside `{{H6959}}`, providing a fuller picture of a warrior's gear:
* `{{H8302}}` **shiryôwn** (coat of mail): This term refers to the main body armor, or corslet. It appears with **helmet** in the arming of David, who was given a **coat of mail** in addition to the head protection [[1 Samuel 17:38]].
* `{{H4043}}` **mâgên** (shield): This word for a smaller shield or buckler is often used figuratively as a protector. It is listed alongside **helmet** as part of the invading army's equipment in [[Ezekiel 23:24]].
* `{{H6793}}` **tsinnâh** (buckler): This refers to a large shield and is also mentioned with **helmet** in the description of the army in [[Ezekiel 23:24]]. It is sometimes paired with `{{H4043}}` to describe a full defensive array [[Psalms 35:2]].
* `{{H4055}}` **mad** (armour): This general term for a garment or vesture is used to describe the full set of **armour** Saul gave to David, which included the helmet [[1 Samuel 17:38]].
### Theological Significance
While `{{H6959}}` itself is not used figuratively in the provided texts, the concept of armor is rich with theological meaning. Other pieces of armor mentioned in the same contexts are used to describe spiritual realities.
* **Divine Protection:** The shield `{{H4043}}`, mentioned with the helmet in Ezekiel, is frequently used as a metaphor for God's protection. God promises Abram, "I am thy **shield**" [[Genesis 15:1]], a theme echoed in the Psalms ([[Psalms 3:3]], [[Psalms 28:7]]).
* **Spiritual Virtues:** The coat of mail `{{H8302}}` is used symbolically for moral qualities. Isaiah describes God putting on "righteousness as a **breastplate**" as He prepares to act [[Isaiah 59:17]]. This illustrates how physical armor can represent spiritual strength and character.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6959}}` is a specific and literal term for a **helmet**. Its two appearances firmly place it in the context of military readiness. While its use is not symbolic, its association with other pieces of armor like the shield and breastplate connects it to a broader biblical theme where physical armor is often a metaphor for divine protection and spiritual righteousness.
TRV