### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼeshnâb**, represented by `{{H822}}`, refers to a **latticed window** or **casement**. According to its base definition, it is apparently from an unused root probably meaning "to leave interstices." This specific term is rare, appearing only **2 times** in **2 unique verses** within the scriptures.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two uses of `{{H822}}` place it as a point of observation from within a dwelling. In the Song of Deborah, the mother `{{H517}}` of Sisera `{{H5516}}` looks out `{{H8259}}` a window `{{H2474}}` and cries `{{H2980}}` through the **lattice** `{{H822}}` in distress, questioning why his chariot `{{H7393}}` is so long `{{H954}}` in coming `{{H935}}` [[Judges 5:28]]. In contrast, Proverbs presents a scene of observation where the speaker looks `{{H8259}}` from the window `{{H2474}}` of his house `{{H1004}}` through his **casement** `{{H822}}` [[Proverbs 7:6]]. In both instances, it functions as a screen through which one views the outside world.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the context in which **ʼeshnâb** is used:
* `{{H2474}}` **challôwn** (window): This word for **window** is used in direct parallel with `{{H822}}` in both of its occurrences, highlighting a similar function of providing a view ([[Judges 5:28]]; [[Proverbs 7:6]]).
* `{{H8259}}` **shâqaph** (look): This root, meaning to **look** down, forth, or out, describes the action performed through the lattice in both biblical accounts. It is used to describe both Sisera's mother looking out anxiously and the speaker in Proverbs observing from his house `{{H1004}}` ([[Judges 5:28]]; [[Proverbs 7:6]]).
* `{{H1004}}` **bayith** (house): This term for **house** provides the setting for looking through a casement in [[Proverbs 7:6]]. A **house** is a place of dwelling and family, and the lattice serves as its boundary to the outside world [[Joshua 24:15]].
### Theological Significance
While rare, `{{H822}}` carries a distinct conceptual weight as a boundary for observation.
* **A Frame for Anxiety:** The **lattice** provides the dramatic frame for the mother `{{H517}}` of Sisera `{{H5516}}` as she waits for her son. Her cry `{{H2980}}` through the **lattice** transforms it into a symbol of anxious waiting and the dread that his return has been delayed `{{H954}}` [[Judges 5:28]].
* **A Boundary of Perspective:** In both uses, the **lattice** or **casement** establishes a clear boundary between an interior space (a house `{{H1004}}`) and the external world. It is a structure that both separates and connects, allowing sight while maintaining a degree of separation.
* **A Point of Observation:** Fundamentally, **ʼeshnâb** is an architectural feature that facilitates looking `{{H8259}}`. Whether for a mother's `{{H517}}` fearful watch or a wise man's observation, it is the aperture through which a scene is viewed [[Proverbs 7:6]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H822}}` **ʼeshnâb** is a specific and uncommon term for a **latticed window** or **casement**. Though it appears only twice, its context in scripture is significant. It illustrates a point of observation that can be filled with the intense emotion of a mother's `{{H517}}` grief [[Judges 5:28]] or serve as a simple vantage point from one's house `{{H1004}}` [[Proverbs 7:6]]. It represents a physical and symbolic boundary between the inner world of a person and the events of the outer world.
TRV