כָּסוּי
properly, covered, i.e. (as noun) a covering
Definition
The Hebrew noun כָּסוּי (kâçûwy) literally means 'a covering' or 'something that is covered.' It is derived from the passive participle of the verb כָּסָה (kâsâ), meaning 'to cover.' In its two biblical occurrences, it specifically refers to a physical, functional covering used in the sacred service of the Tabernacle. In Numbers 4:6, it denotes the 'covering of badgers' skins' placed over the Ark of the Covenant during transport, while in Numbers 4:14, it refers to the various 'coverings' for the altar utensils. The word emphasizes the act of concealment and protection for holy objects.
Biblical Usage
כָּסוּי is used exclusively in the book of Numbers, specifically in the detailed instructions for the Levitical priests regarding the transportation of the Tabernacle and its furnishings (Numbers 4). Both occurrences (Numbers 4:6, 4:14) are in the context of preparing sacred objects for a journey, where specific coverings are mandated to protect them and to shield them from direct view. This indicates a highly specialized, ritual use of the term.
Etymology
The word is a passive participle (qal passive) of the common Hebrew root כ־ס־ה (k-s-h), meaning 'to cover, conceal, or clothe.' As a participle used as a noun, כָּסוּי means 'a covered thing' or 'a covering.' Its root is widely used in the Old Testament for physical covering (Genesis 7:20), atonement (Psalm 32:1), and protection (Psalm 91:4).
Semantic Range
Though a simple noun, כָּסוּי is theologically significant within its context. The specific coverings it describes were not merely practical but were divinely ordained (Numbers 4:5-15) to protect the holiness of God's presence symbolized in the Tabernacle. They prevented the priests and people from looking directly upon the sacred objects, reflecting the theme of God's holiness requiring separation and reverence. Understanding this term enriches the reading of these passages by highlighting the care and order God established for approaching His presence.
In the ancient Near Eastern and Israelite context, covering sacred objects was a common ritual practice denoting respect, sanctity, and separation from the profane. The specific materials commanded—like badgers' skins (often understood as durable leather)—were chosen for durability during wilderness travel, indicating that holiness was to be practically protected even in transit. This differs from a modern understanding of a 'covering' as merely decorative or protective; here, it is an integral part of sacred ritual logistics.
מַכְסֶה (mikseh, H4372) — A more general term for a covering or screen, also used for the Tabernacle's outer covering (Exodus 26:14). כְּסוּת (kᵉçûwth, H3682) — A covering typically for people (clothing) or the ground (a blanket), emphasizing a layer that provides concealment or warmth (Exodus 21:10, Deuteronomy 22:12).
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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