feminine of שָׂבָךְ; a net-work, i.e. (in hunting) a snare, (in architecture) a ballustrade; also a reticulated ornament to apillar; checker, lattice, network, snare, wreath(-enwork).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **sᵉbâkâh**, represented by `{{H7639}}`, refers to a net-work, snare, lattice, or wreathen work. It appears 15 times in 12 unique verses. The word carries a dual meaning, most often describing ornate architectural details on pillars but also referring to a literal snare or a latticed opening.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H7639}}` is overwhelmingly associated with the intricate, decorative metalwork on the pillars of Solomon's temple. It is described as a **network**, **wreathen work**, or **checker work** made of brass that adorned the tops of the pillars, often alongside ornamental pomegranates [[1 Kings 7:18]]. This **network** was a key feature of the chapiters, or pillar capitals, and its creation and design are meticulously recorded [[1 Kings 7:41]]. The term is also used to describe the **lattice** in an upper chamber through which King Ahaziah fell [[2 Kings 1:2]], and in a metaphorical sense, it is the **snare** upon which the wicked walk [[Job 18:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of `{{H7639}}`:
* `{{H3805}}` **kôthereth** (the capital of a column): This term is almost always found with **sᵉbâkâh**, as the network was a decoration for the **chapiter** on top of a pillar [[2 Kings 25:17]].
* `{{H5982}}` **ʻammûwd** (a column): The **sᵉbâkâh** and **kôthereth** were integral parts of the massive bronze **pillars** that stood in the temple [[1 Kings 7:17]].
* `{{H7416}}` **rimmôwn** (a pomegranate): These were used as artificial ornaments alongside the **network** to decorate the chapiters, with hundreds of **pomegranates** arranged in rows [[Jeremiah 52:23]].
* `{{H7568}}` **resheth** (a net): This word is used in parallel with **sᵉbâkâh** to describe a trap, as when one is cast into a **net** and walks upon a snare [[Job 18:8]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H7639}}` is demonstrated in several key themes:
* **Divine Craftsmanship:** The detailed descriptions of the **network** highlight the beauty, artistry, and immense value of the objects created for the temple, reflecting the glory of God's house. The work is described as being made of brass and covering the chapiters on the pillars [[1 Kings 7:41]].
* **Architectural Peril and Metaphorical Snares:** The word demonstrates a duality of meaning. A **lattice** that is part of a building can become a source of physical danger [[2 Kings 1:2]]. In Job, the word is used purely as a metaphor for a **snare** that entangles the wicked [[Job 18:8]].
* **A Record of Glory and Loss:** The **wreathen work** is not only mentioned when the temple is built but is also carefully inventoried when the temple is plundered by invaders. The record of its removal shows its importance as a national and religious treasure [[2 Kings 25:17]].
### Summary
In summary, **sᵉbâkâh** `{{H7639}}` is a term with specific applications. Primarily, it denotes the ornate, latticed metalwork that decorated the great pillars of Solomon's temple, a symbol of magnificent craftsmanship. In a smaller number of cases, it shifts from architectural beauty to concepts of danger and entanglement, whether a literal lattice or a metaphorical snare. The word thus captures both the splendor of sacred construction and the hazards present in the world.
TRV