סַרְבַּל

סַרְבַּל

a cloak

Definition

The Hebrew word סַרְבַּל (çarbal) refers to a specific type of garment, likely a cloak or coat, worn in the ancient Near East. It appears exclusively in the Aramaic portions of the book of Daniel, describing the clothing worn by Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. In Daniel 3:21, these three men are bound and thrown into the fiery furnace while wearing their 'coats' (KJV), along with other garments. The miraculous preservation of these garments in the fire, as noted in Daniel 3:27, highlights the divine protection they received.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only twice in the Old Testament, both times in the Aramaic section of Daniel 3. It describes the outer garments of the three Hebrew exiles in Babylon. The usage is consistent, referring to a standard article of clothing in the Babylonian context, which was not consumed by the intense heat of the furnace, underscoring the miracle.

Etymology

The word סַרְבַּל is of Aramaic origin, not Hebrew, and its exact derivation remains uncertain. It is a loanword used in the biblical Aramaic passages, likely borrowed from Akkadian or another Mesopotamian language, reflecting the Babylonian cultural setting of the narrative. Its specific meaning as a cloak or coat is derived from its context in Daniel.

Semantic Range

While סַרְבַּל itself is a mundane noun for a garment, its use in Daniel 3 carries theological significance. The preservation of these garments in the fiery furnace (Daniel 3:27) serves as a tangible sign of God's miraculous protection and deliverance for those who remain faithful under persecution. It underscores the theme that God's power extends over every detail, even clothing, when He rescues His people. In its original Babylonian setting, a סַרְבַּל was likely a standard outer garment, such as a cloak or coat, worn by officials or individuals of status. The fact that Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego retained their positions in the Babylonian court suggests these were not ordinary clothes but possibly items denoting their administrative roles. The miraculous preservation would have been culturally striking, as fire typically destroys such fabrics. beged (H899) — a general Hebrew term for garment, clothing, or covering. simlah (H8071) — a cloak or wrapper, often used for a large outer garment. kuttoneth (H3801) — a tunic or undergarment, typically a long shirt-like garment.

Word Details