The Hebrew word paç, represented by H6446, describes a specific type of tunic, often translated as a garment of "(divers) colours". The word's original meaning relates to the palm of the hand or sole of the foot, implying a long garment reaching the extremities. It appears 5 times across 5 unique verses, making each usage significant within its narrative.
In the biblical narrative, H6446 is famously associated with Joseph. His father Israel made him a "coat of many colours" as a sign of his special love for him Genesis 37:3. This garment became a focal point of his brothers' jealousy, leading them to strip the coat from him before selling him into slavery Genesis 37:23. They then used the coat to deceive their father into believing Joseph had been killed Genesis 37:32. The term also appears in the story of Tamar, the daughter of King David, who wore a "garment of divers colours" because this was the customary apparel for virgin daughters of the king 2 Samuel 13:18. After she was violated, she rent this same garment as a sign of her deep distress and shame 2 Samuel 13:19.
Several related words help clarify the nature of this garment:
- H3801 kᵉthôneth (coat, garment, robe): This is the specific word for "coat" or "garment" that H6446 modifies in all its appearances. Joseph's garment is a "kᵉthôneth" of "paç" Genesis 37:3.
- H3847 lâbash (to put on a garment or clothe): This verb describes how the king's daughters were "apparelled" in these special garments, indicating it was their standard ceremonial wear 2 Samuel 13:18.
- H4598 mᵉʻîyl (a robe (i.e. upper and outer garment)): This word is used to explain the custom of the king's daughters, noting that they were dressed in such "robes" 2 Samuel 13:18, linking H6446 to garments of royalty and status.
The narrative significance of H6446 is tied to its symbolic weight in two key stories:
- A Symbol of Favor: The garment is a physical manifestation of special status. It is given to Joseph because he is loved more than his siblings Genesis 37:3 and is worn by Tamar because of her royal, virginal status 2 Samuel 13:18.
- An Instrument in Tragedy: This symbol of favor becomes a catalyst for violence and grief. It fuels the brothers' hatred for Joseph Genesis 37:23 and is later torn by Tamar as an outward expression of her violation and mourning 2 Samuel 13:19.
- An Object of Deception: The coat is central to the lie Joseph's brothers tell their father, becoming false evidence of his death Genesis 37:32.
In summary, H6446 is not merely a description of a colorful piece of clothing. It functions as a powerful narrative symbol representing favor, royalty, and high status. In both of the stories in which it appears, this special garment is intrinsically linked to familial jealousy, tragic violence, and profound grief, illustrating how a physical object can carry immense symbolic importance.
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