קַשְׂקֶשֶׂת

קַשְׂקֶשֶׂת

a scale (of a fish); hence a coat of mail (as composed of or covered with jointed plates of metal)

Definition

The Hebrew word קַשְׂקֶשֶׂת (qasqeseth) primarily refers to a scale, like those found on fish or reptiles. In the Torah's dietary laws (Leviticus 11:9-12, Deuteronomy 14:9-10), it describes the defining feature of aquatic creatures permitted for food: they must have both fins and scales. In a military context, the word is used metaphorically for a coat of mail, as seen in the description of Goliath's armor (1 Samuel 17:5), envisioning it as a garment covered with overlapping metal plates similar to fish scales. This same imagery is applied to the mythical sea creature in Ezekiel 29:4, portraying it as being covered in scales.

Biblical Usage

This word is used seven times in the Old Testament. Its usage follows two clear patterns. First, it appears in legal texts (Leviticus and Deuteronomy) defining clean and unclean animals for Israel's diet, specifically regarding fish. Second, it is used in narrative (1 Samuel) and prophetic (Ezekiel) literature as a metaphor for protective armor or the scaly hide of a creature. The metaphorical use builds directly on the literal, physical meaning of a scale.

Etymology

The word is a reduplicated form, suggesting a repetitive or overlapping structure, which fittingly describes scales. It is derived from an unused root meaning 'to peel off' or 'to flake off,' like bark or a scale being removed. This root idea connects to something that is layered and can be detached.

Semantic Range

This word connects to the important biblical concepts of holiness and separation. In the dietary laws, scales become a visible, tangible marker distinguishing clean from unclean, teaching Israel to make distinctions in obedience to God. The metaphorical use in 1 Samuel 17:5 highlights the formidable, human strength of Goliath, which is overcome by God's power through David. In Ezekiel, the imagery underscores the pride and defensive might of Pharaoh, which God will pierce. In the ancient Near East, scale armor was a common and advanced form of personal protection, made by sewing small, overlapping metal or leather plates onto a garment. This made the metaphor of 'scales' for armor immediately understandable. The dietary laws using fish scales as a criterion were unique to Israel's covenant identity, setting them apart from surrounding cultures that did not have such restrictions. None directly synonymous. For armor: שִׁרְיוֹן (shiryon, H8302) — a more general term for body armor or coat of mail.

Word Details