Bible Word Study
שָׁבַץ
shâbats · to interweave (colored) threads in squares; by implication (of reticulation) to inchase gems in gold
שָׁבַץ
to interweave (colored) threads in squares; by implication (of reticulation) to inchase gems in gold
Definition
The Hebrew verb שָׁבַץ (shâbats) primarily means to weave or set something in a patterned, checkered, or inlaid fashion. In its two biblical occurrences, it describes the intricate craftsmanship of the high priest's garments. In Exodus 28:39, it refers to the 'checkered work' or embroidery of the tunic, likely involving interwoven colored threads in a square pattern. In Exodus 28:20, the term describes how precious stones for the ephod are to be 'set' or 'inlaid' in gold filigree, indicating a secure and artistic mounting.
Biblical Usage
This word is used exclusively in Exodus 28, detailing the construction of the high priest's sacred vestments. It appears in two distinct but related artisan contexts: first for textile embroidery (Exodus 28:39) and second for jewel setting (Exodus 28:20). Both uses emphasize precision, beauty, and the high quality of work mandated for objects used in worship.
Etymology
A primitive root, its core meaning relates to arranging in a checkered or tessellated pattern. Cognates in other Semitic languages suggest meanings of 'to be spotted' or 'to variegate,' supporting the idea of creating a patterned, multi-colored, or inlaid effect.
Semantic Range
This word is theologically significant as it highlights the divine care and intentionality behind Israel's worship. The specific command for 'checkered' and 'inlaid' work on the high priest's garments (Exodus 28) underscores that beauty, excellence, and intricate craftsmanship are appropriate offerings to God. It reflects the holiness of God, which is to be approached with reverence and the best of human skill, setting apart the sacred from the ordinary. In the ancient Near East, elaborate embroidery and gem setting were signs of luxury, status, and devotion, often reserved for royalty and deities. God's instructions for the tabernacle and priestly garments co-opt this cultural language of honor, applying it to the service of Yahweh. The 'checkered work' (Exodus 28:39) was a specific and likely recognizable style of fine textile art. רָקַם (rāqam, H7551) — a more general term for needlework or embroidery, not specifying a checkered pattern. חָשַׁב (ḥāšab, H2803) — to think, devise, or weave skillfully; used for the 'cunning' or artistic work of craftsmen.
Word Details
How this works
Definitions are from the Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (BDB, 1906, public domain). Concordance and morphology data are from the OSHB (Open Scriptures Hebrew Bible).
Full methodology & sources →References
- Abbott-Smith, G. (1921) A Manual Greek Lexicon of the New Testament. Edinburgh: T&T Clark. [Public Domain]
- Brown, F., Driver, S.R. and Briggs, C.A. (1906) A Hebrew and English Lexicon of the Old Testament. Oxford: Clarendon Press. [Public Domain]
- Tyndale House, Cambridge (n.d.) Tyndale Brief lexicon of Extended Strongs for Greek (TBESG). STEPBible. Available at: https://www.stepbible.org. [CC BY 4.0]
- Tyndale House, Cambridge (n.d.) Translators Formatted full LSJ (TFLSJ). STEPBible. Available at: https://www.stepbible.org. [CC BY 4.0]
- Thayer, J.H. (1889) A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament. [Public Domain]
- Gesenius, W. (1846) Gesenius' Hebrew-Chaldee Lexicon to the Old Testament. [Public Domain]
- Dodson, J. (2010) Greek Lexicon. Biblical Humanities. [CC0]