a primitive root; to interweave (colored) threads in squares; by implication (of reticulation) to inchase gems in gold; embroider, set.
Transliteration:shâbats
Pronunciation:shaw-bats'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew root `{{H7660}}` (שָׁבַץ, *shâbats*) is a primitive verb carrying the core meaning of intricate interweaving and precise setting. Its primary sense refers to the creation of patterns, specifically "to interweave (colored) threads in squares," suggesting a checker-work or lattice-like design. This implies a meticulous and skilled form of textile artistry, resulting in a structured and often ornate fabric. By extension and implication, particularly in the context of "reticulation" (a net-like or mesh pattern), `{{H7660}}` also describes the act of "to inchase gems in gold." This secondary meaning emphasizes the secure and decorative placement of precious stones within a metallic framework, where the "setting" holds the gem firmly and prominently. Thus, the semantic range of `{{H7660}}` encompasses both elaborate embroidery and the artful mounting of jewels, consistently pointing to highly skilled craftsmanship, intentional design, and the creation of items of beauty and value.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The root `{{H7660}}` appears primarily in the book of Exodus, with a single occurrence in Ezekiel, always in the context of highly skilled artistry and precious items.
In Exodus, `{{H7660}}` is used to describe elements of the priestly garments and the ephod, highlighting the divine demand for meticulous craftsmanship in the Tabernacle service:
* **Priestly Tunic:** In [[Exodus 28:39]], the tunic of fine linen for Aaron is described as "woven in checker work" (שָׁבַץ). This refers to an intricate, patterned weave, distinct from plain linen, signifying the special nature of the high priest's attire. The same description is found in [[Exodus 39:2]] regarding the ephod, which was made of gold, blue, purple, and scarlet material, and fine twisted linen, all "skillfully worked" or "woven in checker work," underscoring the complexity and beauty required for this sacred garment.
* **Setting of Stones:** The verb is also used to describe the setting of the precious stones in the breastpiece of judgment. [[Exodus 28:20]], [[Exodus 39:13]], and [[Exodus 39:16]] all state that the stones were "set in settings of gold" (מֻשְׁבָּצוֹת זָהָב). This usage emphasizes the secure and ornate way in which the twelve stones, representing the tribes of Israel, were affixed to the breastpiece. The "settings" were not merely functional but were an integral part of the overall design, showcasing the brilliance of the gems and ensuring their firm placement. This implies a precise, almost architectural, approach to holding the valuable stones.
In Ezekiel, `{{H7660}}` appears once in a different context:
* **Tyre's Adornments:** In [[Ezekiel 28:13]], in a lament over the king of Tyre, the text describes his lavish adornments, stating "Your settings and your engravings were of gold" (תֻּפֶּיךָ וּנְקָבֶיךָ בָּךְ בְּמַעֲשֵׂה תֻפֶּיךָ וּנְקָבֶיךָ בָּךְ). While some translations render the preceding word (תֻּפֶּיךָ, *tuppeykha*) as "tambourines" or "pipes," the context of precious stones and the parallel with Exodus strongly suggest that `{{H7660}}` here refers to the "settings" for jewels. This highlights the king of Tyre's immense wealth and pride in his opulent, intricately adorned possessions, mirroring the luxurious craftsmanship seen in the Tabernacle but here applied to human vanity.
Across its occurrences, `{{H7660}}` consistently denotes a high level of artistic skill, precision, and the use of valuable materials to create objects of significant beauty and symbolic importance.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept conveyed by `{{H7660}}` is closely related to several other terms and ideas within the biblical lexicon:
* **Craftsmanship and Skill:** Words like `{{H262}}` ('aman, "to be skillful," "master craftsman"), `{{H2790}}` (ḥārash, "to engrave," "to be a craftsman"), and `{{H2796}}` (ḥārāsh, "craftsman," "artisan") all speak to the human ability to create with precision and artistry, a divine gift often highlighted in the construction of the Tabernacle (e.g., Bezalel and Oholiab, [[Exodus 31:1-6]]).
* **Precious Materials:** The contexts of `{{H7660}}` inherently involve materials such as gold, fine linen, and various precious stones, which are frequently mentioned alongside terms for wealth, beauty, and divine glory.
* **Divine Design and Order:** The intricate patterns and precise settings described by `{{H7660}}` reflect the divine blueprint given for the Tabernacle and its furnishings. This points to God's nature as a God of order, beauty, and meticulous detail, where every element has its place and purpose.
* **Holiness and Adornment:** The priestly garments, adorned with "checker work" and "set" jewels, were not merely functional but served to distinguish the priests and symbolize the holiness and glory of their office before God. Adornment, when divinely commanded, serves a sacred purpose.
* **Embroidery and Weaving:** Other terms related to textile arts, such as those describing "embroidered work" (e.g., `{{H7553}}`, rāqam, "to variegate with colors") or "woven work," are conceptually linked, as they also involve the creation of intricate patterns in fabric.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H7660}}` is profound, particularly in its primary usage concerning the Tabernacle and priestly garments.
* **God's Demand for Excellence and Beauty in Worship:** The meticulous instructions for the Tabernacle, including the "checker work" of the priestly tunic and the "setting" of the breastpiece's stones, reveal God's expectation of the highest quality and beauty in all things pertaining to His worship. Nothing was to be haphazard or second-rate. This reflects God's own perfect and glorious nature, demanding that His dwelling place and the attire of His ministers reflect His holiness and majesty.
* **Symbolic Precision and Divine Order:** The intricate patterns and precise settings signify divine order and the careful arrangement of God's purposes. The twelve stones, each "set" securely, represent the twelve tribes of Israel, firmly established and borne upon the high priest's heart before the Lord. This speaks to God's covenant faithfulness and His meticulous care for His people.
* **Human Skill as a Divine Gift:** The ability to "shâbats" – to perform such intricate weaving and precise gem-setting – was not merely human ingenuity but a divinely imparted skill, part of the wisdom given by the Holy Spirit to artisans like Bezalel and Oholiab ([[Exodus 31:3-5]]). This highlights that human creativity and craftsmanship, when consecrated to God, become instruments for His glory and the fulfillment of His divine plans.
* **Sacred Distinction and Consecration:** The unique and elaborate nature of the priestly garments, adorned with the work of `{{H7660}}`, served to set apart the priests as consecrated to God's service. Their attire was not merely clothing but a visual representation of their mediatorial role and the holiness required for approaching a holy God.
* **The Contrast of Prideful Adornment:** The use of `{{H7660}}` in Ezekiel 28:13, describing the king of Tyre's adornments, offers a stark contrast. While the same term for intricate setting is used, here it points to human pride, self-glorification, and the abuse of beauty for worldly ends, ultimately leading to judgment. This underscores that beauty and skill, while inherently good, must be rightly directed to glorify God, not self.
### Summary
The Hebrew verb `{{H7660}}` (שָׁבַץ, *shâbats*) describes the acts of intricate interweaving (specifically "checker work") and the precise, secure setting of precious gems. Its primary biblical occurrences are found in Exodus, where it details the elaborate craftsmanship of the high priest's tunic and the secure mounting of the twelve tribal stones in the breastpiece. A singular appearance in Ezekiel describes the opulent adornments of the king of Tyre. Theologically, `{{H7660}}` underscores God's demand for excellence, beauty, and meticulous precision in all aspects of His worship, reflecting His own perfect nature and divine order. It highlights human skill as a God-given gift, consecrated for sacred purposes, and serves as a reminder that while beauty and craftsmanship are valuable, their ultimate purpose should be to glorify God, not human pride. The word thus encapsulates a concept of divinely inspired artistry, manifesting holiness and symbolic meaning through detailed and precious work.
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