כְּבִיר

כְּבִיר

a matrass (of intertwined materials)

Definition

The Hebrew noun כְּבִיר (kᵉbîyr) refers to a 'matrass' or 'pillow' made of intertwined materials, likely a woven or plaited cushion. In its two biblical occurrences, it describes an object placed on a bed, specifically the 'pillow of goats' hair' (1 Samuel 19:13, 16) that Michal used to disguise an idol in David's bed to deceive Saul's messengers. The term emphasizes the item's construction from plaited or woven substances, distinguishing it from a simple cloth or stuffed pillow. No other distinct meanings are attested in the biblical text.

Biblical Usage

This word appears only twice in the Old Testament, both in the same narrative in 1 Samuel 19. It is used in the context of domestic deception, where Michal takes a 'pillow of goats' hair' (כְּבִיר הָעִזִּים) and places it with an idol (תְּרָפִים) in David's bed to make it appear he is ill. The usage is specific to a household item on a bed, with no other patterns or contexts found.

Etymology

כְּבִיר derives from the root כָּבַר (kāvar, H3527), which in its original sense means 'to plait' or 'interweave.' This etymology directly informs the word's meaning, pointing to an object crafted by intertwining materials, such as hair or fibers. The development from the verbal idea of plaiting to the noun for a plaited cushion is straightforward, highlighting its functional construction.

Semantic Range

In ancient Israelite culture, a כְּבִיר was likely a practical bedding item made from available materials like goat hair, woven for comfort. The 'pillow of goats' hair' in 1 Samuel 19:13, 16 reflects common domestic resources and craftsmanship. This differs from modern pillows, which are often soft and stuffed; the biblical matrass was probably firmer and more utilitarian, serving both as a headrest and, in this story, as a prop for deception. מְרַאֲשׁוֹת (mᵉra'ăshôth, H4763) — a more general term for a 'head-place' or pillow, often used for the stone Jacob rested on (Genesis 28:11), emphasizing location rather than material construction.

Word Details