### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shulchân**, represented by `{{H7979}}`, means **table**. It appears **70 times** across **62 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from a root meaning to spread out, it refers not only to the physical object but also, by implication, to the **meal** served upon it.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H7979}}` is used in contexts of both divine worship and human interaction. A central feature of the tabernacle and temple was the **table** of shewbread, where consecrated **bread** `{{H3899}}` was continually set before the LORD [[Exodus 25:30]]. Ezekiel describes an altar-like structure of wood as "the **table** that is before the LORD" [[Ezekiel 41:22]]. The word also signifies hospitality and royal favor, as seen when David offers Mephibosheth a permanent place to eat at his **table** [[2 Samuel 9:7]]. Conversely, a **table** can represent a place of treachery, where kings speak lies [[Daniel 11:27]], or a symbol of idolatry when prepared for false deities [[Isaiah 65:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words define the items and actions associated with the **table**:
* `{{H3899}}` **lechem** (bread): As food for man or beast, **lechem** is frequently placed upon the **shulchân**. The most prominent example is the "shewbread," which was always on the sacred **table** in the tabernacle [[Exodus 25:30]].
* `{{H4196}}` **mizbêach** (altar): This term for an **altar** is often listed with the **table** as part of the sanctuary's holy furniture [[Numbers 3:31]]. In Ezekiel's vision, a wooden structure is identified as "the **table** that is before the LORD" [[Ezekiel 41:22]].
* `{{H6186}}` **ʻârak** (to set in a row, prepare): This verb, meaning to arrange or set in order, is used to describe the action of setting up a **table**. This is seen in the context of divine provision, where God prepares a **table** for the psalmist [[Psalms 23:5]], and also in idolatry, where a **table** is prepared for a false god [[Isaiah 65:11]].
### Theological Significance
The concept of `{{H7979}}` carries significant theological weight, representing fellowship, worship, and judgment.
* **Fellowship and Provision:** The **table** is a powerful symbol of provision and restored relationship. God "prepares a **table**" as an act of sustenance and protection [[Psalms 23:5]]. Similarly, an invitation to eat at a king's **table** signifies honor, acceptance, and covenant kindness [[2 Samuel 9:7]].
* **Sacred Worship:** In the tabernacle, the **table** of shewbread was a holy vessel where offerings were perpetually set before God's **face** `{{H6440}}`, signifying Israel's constant communion with Him ([[Exodus 25:30]], [[Leviticus 24:6]]).
* **Spiritual Purity and Judgment:** The state of the **table** reflects the spiritual state of the people. The prophets condemned Israel for treating the **table** of the LORD as "contemptible" [[Malachi 1:7]] and "polluted" [[Malachi 1:12]]. For the wicked, their own **table**, a place of security, can become a snare [[Psalms 69:22]].
### Summary
In summary, **shulchân** `{{H7979}}` is far more than a simple piece of furniture. It serves as a focal point for divine worship, a symbol of royal honor and hospitality, and a metaphor for both blessed fellowship and corrupt rebellion. From the sacred table of shewbread in the tabernacle to the table prepared in the presence of enemies, the word illustrates a place of meeting—between God and humanity, king and subject, and friend and foe.
TRV