חֲטֻבָה
properly, a carving; hence, a tapestry (as figured)
Definition
The Hebrew word חֲטֻבָה refers to something that has been cut out or carved, specifically describing intricately worked materials. In its single biblical occurrence in Proverbs 7:16, it describes the coverings of a bed, understood as 'tapestries' or 'carved work'—likely referring to richly embroidered or woven fabrics with decorative patterns. The term originates from the idea of carving or hewing, suggesting these textiles were not plain but featured elaborate, figured designs. This points to items of luxury and artistic craftsmanship in the ancient world.
Biblical Usage
This word appears only once in the Old Testament, in Proverbs 7:16, where the 'strange woman' describes her bed as covered with 'tapestries of carved work' (חֲטֻבוֹת אֵטוּן). It is used in a poetic, descriptive context within a wisdom literature warning against adultery, emphasizing the sensual and alluring luxury with which the adulteress adorns her chamber to entice the foolish young man.
Etymology
Derived from the root חָטַב (H2404), meaning 'to cut, hew, or carve.' חֲטֻבָה is the feminine passive participle form, literally meaning 'that which is carved' or 'carved work.' This root is used for cutting wood or stone (e.g., Isaiah 10:15) and, by extension, for the intricate cutting or designing of patterns in textiles.
Semantic Range
While not a central theological term, its use in Proverbs 7 is significant. The luxurious 'carved tapestry' is part of the adulteress's seductive arsenal, symbolizing the deceptive and attractive outer trappings of folly and sin. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches the reading by highlighting the deliberate, crafted allure of temptation, contrasting the fleeting beauty of sin with the enduring value of wisdom. It serves as a vivid metaphor for how evil often presents itself in appealing, artful disguises.
In the ancient Near East, elaborately decorated textiles were markers of wealth, status, and luxury. Beds or couches adorned with such 'carved tapestries' indicated a setting of opulence and sensual pleasure. The specific mention in Proverbs would immediately convey to an ancient reader an image of extravagant, perhaps imported, craftsmanship used for seduction, differing from modern, more functional bedding.
רִקְמָה (riqmah, H7553) — embroidery or needlework, often on garments (e.g., Exodus 28:39). מַעֲשֶׂה (ma'aseh, H4639) — general term for work, deed, or product, including artistic work (e.g., Exodus 26:1).
Word Details
How this works
Hebrew definitions are from Brown-Driver-Briggs (1906) and Strong's Exhaustive Concordance (1890), both public domain. BDB was groundbreaking for its era but reflects 19th-century assumptions about Semitic etymology. Modern scholarship (HALOT, DCH) has revised many entries. Use these definitions as a starting point for exploration, not as the final word on a term's meaning in context.
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