### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tabnîyth**, represented by `{{H8403}}`, means structure, model, or pattern. Derived from the word for "to build," it appears **20 times** in **17 unique verses**. Its meaning encompasses a range of related concepts including a physical structure, a model for imitation, or a general resemblance, figure, form, or likeness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H8403}}` often highlights the critical distinction between divinely-sanctioned designs and forbidden imitations. God commands Moses to build the tabernacle and its instruments precisely according to the **pattern** shown to him on the mountain ([[Exodus 25:9]], [[Exodus 25:40]]). Similarly, King David provides his son Solomon with the **pattern** for the temple, a design he received from the LORD ([[1 Chronicles 28:11]], [[1 Chronicles 28:19]]). Conversely, the word is used in warnings against idolatry, forbidding the Israelites from making the **likeness** of any man, woman, beast, or fish [[Deuteronomy 4:16-18]]. This contrast establishes a theme where a "pattern" from God is holy, while a "likeness" created by man for worship is corrupt.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the nuances of image and form:
* `{{H1823}}` **dᵉmûwth** (resemblance; concretely, model, shape): This word is used alongside `{{H8403}}` when King Ahaz sends both the **fashion** `{{H1823}}` and the **pattern** `{{H8403}}` of a pagan altar to Jerusalem [[2 Kings 16:10]].
* `{{H5566}}` **çemel** (a likeness; figure, idol, image): In its prohibition against idolatry, Deuteronomy warns against making a graven image, which is described as the similitude of any **figure** `{{H5566}}` or the **likeness** `{{H8403}}` of male or female [[Deuteronomy 4:16]].
* `{{H6459}}` **peçel** (an idol; carved (graven) image): This term for a **graven image** is often what `{{H8403}}` is used to describe, as seen in the command not to make a **graven image** `{{H6459}}` in the **likeness** `{{H8403}}` of any created thing [[Deuteronomy 4:16]].
* `{{H8544}}` **tᵉmûwnâh** (image, likeness, similitude): This word appears with `{{H8403}}` in the warning against making a graven image, the **similitude** `{{H8544}}` of any figure, or the **likeness** `{{H8403}}` of male or female [[Deuteronomy 4:16]].
### Theological Significance
The conceptual weight of `{{H8403}}` is significant, centering on the source and purpose of a physical representation.
* **Divine Blueprint:** The word establishes that true worship follows a God-given design. The **pattern** of the tabernacle and temple was not a human invention but a divine revelation, emphasizing God's authority over the manner of His worship ([[Exodus 25:9]], [[1 Chronicles 28:11]]).
* **Idolatrous Representation:** In contrast, `{{H8403}}` is used to define what is forbidden in worship. Crafting the **figure** of a man [[Isaiah 44:13]] or the **similitude** of an ox to represent God is an act of corruption that exchanges God's glory for the image of a created thing [[Psalms 106:20]].
* **Tangible Form:** The word is used to describe visionary manifestations, such as the **form** of a man's hand seen by Ezekiel ([[Ezekiel 8:3]], [[Ezekiel 10:8]]), and even poetic ideals, like daughters being polished after the **similitude** of a palace [[Psalms 144:12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8403}}` is a pivotal term that goes beyond a simple reference to shape or structure. It serves as a cornerstone for understanding the biblical divide between authentic worship and idolatry. By signifying both the divinely revealed **pattern** for God's holy dwelling and the man-made **likeness** of a forbidden idol, the word illustrates a crucial theological principle: that form and worship must originate from God's instruction, not human imagination.
TRV