perhaps by permutation for the feminine of סֶמֶל (through the idea of a cover assuming the shape of the object beneath); a dress, especially a mantle; apparel, cloth(-es, -ing), garment, raiment. Compare שַׂלְמָה.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **śimlâh**, represented by `{{H8071}}`, refers to a **dress, especially a mantle**. It appears 29 times across 28 unique verses. While it denotes a general piece of apparel or clothing, its use in scripture often extends beyond a literal garment to signify a person's status, emotional state, or ritual readiness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H8071}}` is central to several significant actions. It is used in contexts of ritual purification, where the people are commanded to wash their **clothes** before meeting with God [[Exodus 19:10]]. It also signifies a change in status, as when Joseph changed his **raiment** before appearing before Pharaoh [[Genesis 41:14]]. The act of tearing one's **clothes** is a recurring expression of profound grief or distress, as demonstrated by Jacob [[Genesis 37:34]] and Joshua [[Joshua 7:6]]. Furthermore, **raiment** is presented as a basic necessity, which God provides for the vulnerable [[Deuteronomy 10:18]] and which the Israelites were permitted to take as spoils [[Exodus 3:22]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Hebrew verbs describe actions performed with or upon a **śimlâh**, clarifying its symbolic function:
* `{{H3526}}` **kâbaç** (to wash): This verb is specifically used for the washing of clothes as an act of sanctification and preparation to come before the Lord ([[Exodus 19:10]], [[Exodus 19:14]]).
* `{{H2498}}` **châlaph** (to change): This action signifies a transition from one state to another, such as putting aside idolatry [[Genesis 35:2]] or moving from a period of mourning into renewed life [[2 Samuel 12:20]].
* `{{H7167}}` **qâraʻ** (to rend, tear): Rending a garment is a powerful, physical display of inner turmoil, whether from personal grief over a son [[Genesis 37:34]] or national crisis [[Joshua 7:6]].
* `{{H6566}}` **pâras** (to spread): This action is used in legal and practical contexts, such as spreading a **cloth** before the elders as evidence [[Deuteronomy 22:17]] or spreading a **garment** to collect offerings [[Judges 8:25]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8071}}` is demonstrated through its connection to core spiritual concepts.
* **Outward Sign of an Inward State:** The treatment of one's garment serves as a visible reflection of an internal condition. Washing **clothes** signals a desire for purity [[Exodus 19:10]], while changing them marks a shift in personal status [[Genesis 41:14]].
* **Divine Provision and Covenant:** God's role as a provider is highlighted by His gift of food and **raiment** [[Deuteronomy 10:18]]. His miraculous care for Israel in the desert is shown in their **raiment** not wearing out [[Deuteronomy 8:4]].
* **Mourning and Repentance:** The act of rending one's **clothes** is a physical manifestation of sorrow and repentance before God and the community ([[Genesis 37:34]], [[Joshua 7:6]]).
* **Identity and Law:** A garment helps establish identity and social boundaries, as specified in the law that a man shall not put on a woman's **garment** [[Deuteronomy 22:5]]. It can also mark a new beginning, as when a captive woman puts off the **raiment** of her captivity [[Deuteronomy 21:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8071}}` is far more than a simple term for an article of clothing. It is a tangible object used in scripture to convey profound realities about a person's relationship with God and their community. From an indicator of divine provision to a symbol of deep mourning or ritual purity, the **śimlâh** illustrates how the most common items of life can be imbued with deep spiritual significance.
TRV