### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **talbôsheth**, represented by `{{H8516}}`, is a term for **a garment; clothing**. Derived from the root word to clothe, **lâbash** `{{H3847}}`, its meaning is tied to the act of putting on apparel. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, making its significance highly specific to its singular context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H8516}}` is found in [[Isaiah 59:17]], within a powerful description of God preparing for judgment. The verse portrays God as a warrior arming Himself with divine attributes. He puts on righteousness as a breastplate `{{H8302}}` and a helmet `{{H3553}}` of salvation `{{H3444}}` on His head `{{H7218}}`. In this context, **talbôsheth** is the specific word used for the **clothing** of divine retribution: "and he put on the garments of vengeance for **clothing**" [[Isaiah 59:17]].
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of `{{H8516}}` is illuminated by the words used alongside it in its only appearance:
* `{{H3847}}` **lâbash**: The root verb, meaning "to put on a garment or clothe (oneself, or another), literally or figuratively." It is used twice in the verse, emphasizing the deliberate act of God arming Himself [[Isaiah 59:17]].
* `{{H899}}` **beged**: A general term for a **garment** or "clothing." The passage states that God put on the "garments" of vengeance, which serve as His **talbôsheth** (clothing) [[Isaiah 59:17]].
* `{{H5359}}` **nâqâm**: This word for **vengeance** describes the very substance of the clothing, denoting "revenge" or a "quarrel" that is being avenged.
* `{{H4598}}` **mᵉʻîyl**: A term for a **robe** or "cloke." In the same verse, God was "clad with zeal as a **cloke**," showing another layer of His divine apparel [[Isaiah 59:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H8516}}` is entirely contained within its powerful, metaphorical use in Isaiah.
* **The Divine Warrior:** The term contributes to the imagery of God as a divine warrior who dresses for battle. The **clothing** `{{H8516}}` is an essential part of His armor, along with the helmet `{{H3553}}` and breastplate `{{H8302}}` [[Isaiah 59:17]].
* **Figurative Apparel:** The passage demonstrates how abstract concepts are personified as apparel. Vengeance `{{H5359}}` is not just an act but becomes the very **clothing** `{{H8516}}` He wears to execute judgment.
* **Righteous Judgment:** The specific use of `{{H8516}}` for **clothing** of vengeance, paired with a cloke of zeal `{{H7068}}` and a breastplate of righteousness `{{H6666}}`, underscores that God's action is a passionate and just response to sin [[Isaiah 59:17]].
### Summary
In summary, **talbôsheth** `{{H8516}}` is a highly specific term for **clothing**. Its single appearance in the Bible defines its entire meaning as a piece of figurative, divine armor. It is uniquely identified as the "clothing of vengeance," working alongside other items like the breastplate of righteousness and the helmet of salvation. The word powerfully illustrates how God's character and actions—such as vengeance and zeal—can be depicted as the garments He puts on to enact justice.
TRV