### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term תַּשְׁבֵּץ (tashbêts), Strong's number `{{H8665}}`, refers to a specific type of patterned fabric, typically translated as "checkered work" or "broidered work." It is derived from the root שָׁבַץ (shabats, `{{H7660}}`), which carries the core meaning of interweaving, setting in, or forming a network. This suggests a textile that is not merely plain or simply embroidered on the surface, but rather one with an integral, woven-in pattern, possibly resembling a grid, lattice, or intricate reticulation. The semantic range thus points to a high degree of craftsmanship, producing a fabric that is both structurally complex and visually ornate.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word תַּשְׁבֵּץ (tashbêts) appears exclusively in the book of Exodus, always in the context of the priestly garments. Its occurrences are limited to three verses:
* [[Exodus 28:4]]: Here, it is prescribed as part of the High Priest's attire: "And these are the garments which they shall make: a breastpiece, and an ephod, and a robe, and a tunic of checkered work (כְּתֹנֶת תַּשְׁבֵּץ), a turban, and a sash." This verse establishes the "tunic of checkered work" as a fundamental component of the sacred vestments.
* [[Exodus 28:39]]: This verse reiterates the instruction for the tunic: "You shall weave the tunic of fine linen, and you shall make a turban of fine linen, and you shall make a sash of embroidered work. And the tunic of checkered work (וְכַתֹּנֶת תַּשְׁבֵּץ) you shall weave." The use of the verb form of the root שָׁבַץ (tishbōṣ) in conjunction with the noun תַּשְׁבֵּץ (tashbêts) ("you shall weave/embroider the tunic of checkered work") emphasizes the intricate, woven nature of the pattern, rather than simple surface embroidery.
* [[Exodus 39:27]]: In the account of the garments' actual construction, it is stated: "And they made the tunics of fine linen of woven work (מַעֲשֵׂה תַּשְׁבֵּץ) for Aaron and for his sons." This confirms that the tunics for both the High Priest and his sons were to be fashioned with this distinctive "checkered work," indicating a consistent standard of divine instruction for all priestly attire.
In all instances, תַּשְׁבֵּץ describes the "tunic" (כְּתֹנֶת, ketonet), which was an inner garment worn closest to the body. This suggests that even the foundational layers of the priests' attire were to be of exquisite, divinely specified design, not just the more visible outer garments. The consistent use highlights the meticulous detail commanded by God for His sacred service.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the verbal root שָׁבַץ (shabats, `{{H7660}}`), which signifies the action of interweaving, setting stones, or forming a network. This root underpins the noun תַּשְׁבֵּץ, confirming its meaning as a woven or patterned fabric.
Other terms related to priestly garments and craftsmanship include:
* אֵפוֹד (ephod, `{{H646}}`): The outer vestment of the High Priest.
* חֹשֶׁן (choshen, `{{H2833}}`): The breastpiece, often adorned with precious stones.
* מְעִיל (me'il, `{{H4598}}`): The robe of the ephod.
* מַעֲשֵׂה חֹשֵׁב (ma'aseh choshev): "Skillful work" or "designer's work," implying intricate and artistic craftsmanship, often mentioned alongside tashbêts in the context of the ephod.
* מַעֲשֵׂה רֹקֵם (ma'aseh roqem): "Embroiderer's work," which typically refers to surface embroidery rather than an integrated woven pattern, distinguishing it from tashbêts.
The distinction between tashbêts (woven pattern) and roqem (embroidery) is significant, underscoring that the priestly tunics were to feature a deeply integrated and structurally complex design, not merely decorative stitching.
### Theological Significance
The specific instruction for the "tunic of checkered work" carries profound theological significance.
1. **Divine Order and Beauty:** The intricate, patterned nature of tashbêts reflects God's own character of order, beauty, and perfection. The divine blueprint for the tabernacle and its service extended even to the minutest details of the priestly garments, emphasizing that worship and service to God must be conducted with the utmost care, precision, and aesthetic excellence.
2. **Holiness and Consecration:** The special nature of the fabric set the priests apart, visually signifying their consecrated status and the holiness of their office. The garments were not merely clothing but sacred vestments, designed by divine command to symbolize the purity and glory required for approaching a holy God.
3. **Symbolism of Interconnectedness:** The "checkered" or "reticulated" pattern could symbolize the interconnectedness of various aspects of God's truth, the unity of the priesthood, or the intricate relationship between God and His people. It suggests a harmonious arrangement of distinct elements.
4. **Emphasis on Inner Purity:** As an inner garment, the tashbêts tunic highlights that even the priest's foundational layer, closest to his body, was to be divinely ordained and meticulously crafted. This underscores the theological principle that inner purity and conformity to God's will are paramount, not just outward appearance.
5. **God's Demand for Excellence:** The requirement for tashbêts demonstrates God's demand for excellence and specific adherence to His commands in all matters of worship and service. It was not enough to use "fine linen"; it had to be of a particular, intricate "checkered work."
### Summary
The Hebrew term תַּשְׁבֵּץ (tashbêts, `{{H8665}}`) denotes a finely woven, checkered, or reticulated fabric, derived from the root שָׁבַץ (shabats, `{{H7660}}`) which implies intricate interweaving. Its exclusive use in the book of Exodus for the tunics of the High Priest and his sons ([[Exodus 28:4]], [[Exodus 28:39]], [[Exodus 39:27]]) underscores its significance as a divinely mandated element of the sacred priestly vestments. This "checkered work" signifies a high degree of craftsmanship and meticulous detail, distinguishing it from simple embroidery. Theologically, tashbêts speaks to God's character of order and beauty, the holiness and consecration of the priesthood, and the divine demand for excellence and precise adherence to His instructions in all aspects of worship and service. It symbolizes that even the inner layers of sacred service were to be of exquisite, divinely ordained design, reflecting the profound reverence due to the Almighty.
TRV