### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼargâmân**, represented by `{{H713}}`, is a word of foreign origin meaning **purple**, referring to the color or the dyed stuff. It appears 38 times across 38 unique verses in the Bible. This dye was a valuable commodity, consistently associated with sanctuary worship, priestly garments, and royalty.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H713}}` is used in several key contexts. Its most prominent use is in the detailed instructions for the Tabernacle, where **purple** fabric is commanded by God for the curtains [[Exodus 26:1]], the vail [[Exodus 26:31]], and hangings for the court [[Exodus 27:16]]. It was also a critical component of the holy garments for the priesthood, including the ephod and breastplate, often woven with gold, blue, and scarlet [[Exodus 28:15]]. Beyond the sanctuary, **purple** signifies royalty and wealth, as seen in the "purple raiment" worn by the kings of Midian [[Judges 8:26]] and the royal apparel given to Mordecai [[Esther 8:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words for colors and fine materials are frequently used alongside **ʼargâmân**:
* `{{H8504}}` **tᵉkêleth** (blue): Defined as the cerulean mussel or the violet color obtained from it, this color is almost always mentioned with purple in the construction of the Tabernacle and priestly garments [[Exodus 25:4]].
* `{{H8144}}` **shânîy** (crimson, scarlet): This color, derived from an insect, forms a trio with blue and purple in the sacred textiles used for the Tabernacle's vail and the priests' ephod [[Exodus 28:6]].
* `{{H8336}}` **shêsh** (fine (twined) linen, marble, silk): This term refers to the high-quality bleached fabric that was often dyed purple. The virtuous woman's clothing is described as being made of **silk** and purple [[Proverbs 31:22]].
* `{{H2091}}` **zâhâb** (gold): A symbol of supreme value and purity, **gold** was beaten into wires and skillfully woven into the blue, purple, and scarlet fabrics of the ephod [[Exodus 39:3]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H713}}` is tied to its specific applications in scripture.
* **Sanctity and Divine Worship:** Its extensive use in the Tabernacle and for the holy garments establishes **purple** as a color set apart for sacred purposes. These items, made from materials like blue, purple, and scarlet, were for service "in the holy place" as the LORD commanded Moses [[Exodus 39:1]].
* **Royalty and Authority:** The color is explicitly linked to earthly kings and figures of high station. The covering of the chariot in Song of Solomon was made of **purple** [[Song of Solomon 3:10]], and the royal apparel worn by Mordecai included a garment of fine linen and **purple** [[Esther 8:15]].
* **Wealth and High Value:** **Purple** was a luxury item, signifying wealth and status. It was listed among valuable trade goods from Syria [[Ezekiel 27:16]] and was spun by wise-hearted women as a contribution for the Tabernacle [[Exodus 35:25]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H713}}` is far more than a simple color descriptor. It is a word imbued with connotations of holiness, royalty, and immense value. From the sacred vail of the Tabernacle to the robes of kings, **ʼargâmân** consistently points to what is set apart, precious, and worthy of honor, bridging the gap between sacred worship and royal dignity in the biblical world.
TRV