The Hebrew word riqmâh, represented by H7553, describes variegation of color, specifically in the form of embroidery or needlework. It appears 12 times across 11 unique verses in the Bible. The term denotes items of intricate beauty and high value, from luxurious garments to precious stones.
In Scripture, H7553 is used to illustrate concepts of divine blessing, royal splendor, and worldly wealth. In a powerful allegory, God clothes Jerusalem in "broidered work" H7553 to signify her transformation into a beautiful kingdom under His care (Ezekiel 16:10, Ezekiel 16:13). The term also describes the magnificent "raiment of needlework" H7553 worn by a royal bride brought before the king Psalms 45:14. In a different context, it signifies valuable trade goods, such as the "broidered work" H7553 from Egypt H4714 and Syria H758 that contributed to Tyre's opulence (Ezekiel 27:7, Ezekiel 27:16). It can also describe non-textile items, such as stones of "divers colours" H7553 prepared for God's house 1 Chronicles 29:2.
Several related words highlight the value and context of items described as H7553:
- H8504 tᵉkêleth (blue): This valuable dye is frequently mentioned alongside "broidered work" H7553 in descriptions of luxurious trade goods and apparel, such as the wares of Tyre Ezekiel 27:24.
- H713 ʼargâmân (purple): A color associated with royalty and wealth, "purple" H713 is listed with "broidered work" H7553 as a precious commodity in international trade Ezekiel 27:16.
- H8336 shêsh (fine linen): This high-quality fabric often served as the base for "broidered work" H7553, as seen in the divine adornment of Jerusalem Ezekiel 16:10 and the sails of Tyre's ships Ezekiel 27:7.
- H4639 maʻăseh (work/wares): This word connects H7553 to skilled craftsmanship and commerce. The "wares of thy making" H4639 in Tyre, for example, included "broidered work" Ezekiel 27:16.
The use of H7553 carries significant thematic weight.
- Symbol of Divine Blessing: The most profound use of H7553 is in Ezekiel 16, where God's gift of "broidered work" symbolizes His covenant love and the lavish blessings He bestows upon His people, making them "exceeding beautiful" H3302 Ezekiel 16:13. The misuse of these same garments for idolatry underscores the gravity of spiritual unfaithfulness Ezekiel 16:18.
- Marker of Honor and Value: Whether describing the clothing of a royal bride Psalms 45:14 or the "precious" H3368 stones for the temple 1 Chronicles 29:2, H7553 marks people and objects of great importance and honor.
- Representation of Worldly Splendor: The "broidered garments" H7553 of the princes of the sea represent the peak of human wealth and power. Their removal in a state of "trembling" H2731 illustrates the temporary nature of earthly glory in the face of divine judgment Ezekiel 26:16.
In summary, riqmâh H7553 is a rich term that transcends its literal definition of embroidery. It functions as a powerful symbol for beauty, value, and skilled artistry. From the feathers of a great eagle Ezekiel 17:3 to the spoils of war Judges 5:30, this word is consistently tied to things of exceptional worth. Biblically, it powerfully illustrates the contrast between the enduring, glorious blessings of God and the fleeting splendor of worldly wealth.
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