### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma קֶרֶס (qereç), transliterated as "qereç" and assigned Strong's H7165, fundamentally denotes a "knob" or "belaying-pin." Its etymological root is found in קָרַס (qaraç) `{{H7164}}`, meaning "to bend," "to stoop," or "to buckle." This derivation is crucial, as it suggests the physical form of the qereç—a rounded or swelling shape, perhaps with a bent or curved element, designed for fastening. The primary translation often rendered is "tache," which refers to a clasp, hook, or buckle used for connecting or securing. Thus, the semantic range of qereç centers on a functional, structural component, specifically a fastener or connector, characterized by a distinct, often rounded or bent, form.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term קֶרֶס (qereç) appears exclusively within the book of Exodus, always in the meticulous descriptions relating to the construction and components of the Tabernacle. Its occurrences are found in [[Exodus 26:6]], [[Exodus 26:11]], [[Exodus 35:11]], [[Exodus 36:13]], and [[Exodus 39:33]]. In every instance, qereç refers to the clasps or hooks used to join the various curtains of the Tabernacle and its covering.
Specifically, [[Exodus 26:6]] and [[Exodus 36:13]] describe "taches of gold" (קַרְסֵי זָהָב) used to connect the two sets of linen curtains that formed the inner dwelling of the Tabernacle, creating a unified structure. Similarly, [[Exodus 26:11]] and [[Exodus 36:18]] (often cited as part of the same descriptive unit) mention "taches of bronze" (קַרְסֵי נְחֹשֶׁת) employed to join the curtains made of goat hair, which served as the tent covering over the Tabernacle. The remaining references in [[Exodus 35:11]] and [[Exodus 39:33]] list "taches" among the essential materials or completed items for the Tabernacle's construction.
The consistent context reveals qereç as a vital, though seemingly minor, component in the Tabernacle's architecture. These taches were not merely decorative but functional, serving to unify distinct sections of fabric into a coherent and complete sacred space. Their material—gold for the inner, bronze for the outer—underscores the hierarchical sanctity and divine precision involved in the Tabernacle's design.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is the verbal root קָרַס (qaraç) `{{H7164}}`, from which qereç is derived. This root signifies "to bend," "to stoop," or "to buckle," directly informing the understanding of qereç as an object that bends or is used to fasten by bending or hooking.
Conceptually, qereç is closely tied to the broader themes of "joining," "uniting," and "connecting." Other Hebrew terms that convey similar ideas of physical attachment or assembly, though not directly etymologically linked, include חָבַר (chabar) `{{H2270}}`, meaning "to join together" or "to unite," which is used in contexts of joining materials or people. The very purpose of the qereç was to enable the יְרִיעָה (yerîʿâ) `{{H3407}}` (curtains) to form a single מִשְׁכָּן (mishkān) `{{H4908}}` (Tabernacle), highlighting its integral role in the assembly of the divine dwelling. The meticulous detail associated with these small fasteners also connects them to the overarching concept of divine תַּבְנִית (tabnît) `{{H8403}}`, "pattern" or "model," emphasizing that every element of the Tabernacle was divinely ordained.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of קֶרֶס (qereç) is profound, despite its seemingly humble function, precisely because of its exclusive association with the Tabernacle.
1. **Symbol of Unity and Cohesion:** The primary function of the qereç was to join separate curtains into a single, unified structure. This speaks powerfully to the divine principle of unity. The Tabernacle, as God's earthly dwelling, was not a collection of disparate parts but a cohesive whole, meticulously assembled according to divine instruction. The taches symbolize the essential nature of connection and integration in God's sacred economy, demonstrating how individual components contribute to the integrity and purpose of the entire structure dedicated to His presence.
2. **Divine Precision and Order:** The specific number (50 gold, 50 bronze) and designated placement of these small fasteners underscore God's meticulous design and the paramount importance of order in worship and service. Nothing in the Tabernacle was arbitrary; every detail, down to the smallest clasp, was divinely ordained. This reflects the character of God as a God of order, who requires precision and faithfulness in all matters pertaining to His glory and communion with humanity.
3. **Facilitator of Sacred Space:** By enabling the curtains to form a complete dwelling, the qereç played a crucial role in creating the sacred space where God's presence would dwell among His people and where atonement could be made. These fasteners, though small, were indispensable for the very existence and functionality of the Tabernacle as a place of mediation and communion.
4. **Typological Foreshadowing:** In a broader theological and typological sense, the qereç can be seen as a subtle foreshadowing of Christ's unifying work. Just as these clasps physically joined the curtains to make one dwelling, Christ unites believers from diverse backgrounds into one body, the Church, making them a spiritual dwelling for God's Spirit. He is the ultimate "clasp" that holds the spiritual edifice together, ensuring its integrity, purpose, and connection to the divine. His atoning work bridges the chasm between God and humanity, much as the taches bridged the gap between the curtains.
### Summary
The Hebrew word קֶרֶס (qereç) `{{H7165}}`, meaning "tache" or "clasp," derives from a root signifying "to bend" or "to buckle," indicating its form as a knob-like fastener. Its exclusive biblical usage is found in the book of Exodus, where it consistently refers to the gold and bronze clasps used to connect the curtains of the Tabernacle. Functionally, the qereç was essential for assembling the Tabernacle into a unified dwelling for God's presence. Theologically, these seemingly minor components carry significant weight, symbolizing divine unity, the meticulous precision of God's design, and the vital role of every element in His sacred plan. Furthermore, they can be seen as a subtle type, pointing to the unifying and cohesive work of Christ in bringing together God's people into a single, holy dwelling.
TRV