### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shaphrûwr**, represented by `{{H8237}}`, denotes a **royal pavilion**. This term, meaning a splendid tapestry or canopy, is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its significance is therefore entirely derived from its singular, powerful context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H8237}}` is in a prophecy recorded in [[Jeremiah 43:10]]. The LORD `{{H3068}}` of hosts `{{H6635}}`, the God `{{H430}}` of Israel `{{H3478}}`, declares that He will send `{{H7971}}` and take `{{H3947}}` Nebuchadrezzar `{{H5019}}`, the king `{{H4428}}` of Babylon `{{H894}}`, whom He explicitly calls "my servant" `{{H5650}}`. In a symbolic act of judgment, God states He will set `{{H7760}}` the king's throne `{{H3678}}` upon stones that the prophet had hidden `{{H2934}}`. The prophecy culminates with the statement that Nebuchadrezzar "shall spread `{{H5186}}` his **royal pavilion** `{{H8237}}` over them," signifying the establishment of his dominion.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from this passage illuminate the meaning and context of this divine judgment:
* `{{H3678}}` **kiççêʼ** (throne): Defined as a seat of authority, often canopied. God establishes the throne `{{H3678}}` of Nebuchadrezzar [[Jeremiah 43:10]], just as He has His own throne `{{H3678}}` in the heavens [[Isaiah 66:1]] and establishes David's throne `{{H3678}}` in a promise of peace [[Isaiah 9:7]].
* `{{H5019}}` **Nᵉbûwkadneʼtstsar** (Nebuchadnezzar): The king `{{H4428}}` of Babylon `{{H894}}` who acts as God's instrument. He is described as God's servant `{{H5650}}`, sent to bring judgment against Israel [[Jeremiah 25:9]] and other nations.
* `{{H5186}}` **nâṭâh** (spread): A verb meaning to stretch or spread out. It is used to describe Nebuchadrezzar spreading his pavilion [[Jeremiah 43:10]], but it is also used to describe God's creative power in stretching out the heavens [[Isaiah 42:5]] and His redemptive power in His outstretched `{{H5186}}` arm [[Jeremiah 27:5]].
* `{{H5650}}` **ʻebed** (servant): The title God gives to Nebuchadrezzar [[Jeremiah 43:10]], placing the conqueror's actions under divine authority. This same title is used for Jacob [[Isaiah 44:2]] and the prophets [[Amos 3:7]], highlighting God's ability to use anyone to fulfill His purpose.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8237}}` is demonstrated entirely through its context within God's sovereign plan.
* **Divine Sovereignty over Nations:** The spreading of the **royal pavilion** is not an act of human will alone. It is the direct fulfillment of God's word, showing that He sends `{{H7971}}` and sets `{{H7760}}` up foreign kings like Nebuchadrezzar `{{H5019}}` to accomplish His purposes [[Jeremiah 43:10]]. The LORD `{{H3068}}` turns the king's heart as He wills [[Proverbs 21:1]].
* **Judgment through a Foreign Agent:** The **royal pavilion** `{{H8237}}` symbolizes the dominion of Babylon `{{H894}}` over the land as an act of divine judgment. By calling the pagan king "my servant" `{{H5650}}`, God `{{H430}}` reveals His absolute control over history, using even an enemy of Israel `{{H3478}}` to execute His plan [[Jeremiah 25:9]].
* **Tangible Symbol of Conquest:** The act of Nebuchadrezzar spreading `{{H5186}}` his splendid canopy over a specific, designated place marks the physical and undeniable establishment of God's declared judgment. The pavilion is a visible sign that authority has been transferred, just as God said `{{H559}}` it would be.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8237}}` **shaphrûwr** is far more than a simple term for a tapestry or canopy. Though used only once, its placement in [[Jeremiah 43:10]] makes it a profound symbol of God's absolute sovereignty. The **royal pavilion** represents the authority of a foreign power, but one that is explicitly sent and established by the LORD of hosts. It illustrates how God can use any person or power as His "servant" to carry out His divine judgment and purpose on earth.
TRV