Lexical Summary sabak: To interweave, entwine, or entangle Original Word: שָׂבָךְ Strong's Exhaustive Concordance net From an unused root meaning to intwine; a netting (ornament to the capital of a column) -- net. NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originthe same as sebakah, q.v. sabbeka Definition see NH5443. Topical Lexicon Physical Description The term שָׂבָךְ denotes the ornamental “network” or lattice of bronze that crowned the twin pillars Jachin and Boaz in Solomon’s Temple (1 Kings 7:17). Fashioned as an open-work mesh, the design was both decorative and functional, allowing light to pass through while completing the capital’s form. Biblical Context In the detailed building narrative (1 Kings 7:13-22), Hiram of Tyre cast two immense pillars for the Temple portico. Above each shaft sat a lily-shaped capital, encircled by seven bands of שָׂבָךְ. The Berean Standard Bible records: “He also made a network of interwoven chains and settings of molded chainwork for the capitals on top of the pillars—seven for the one capital and seven for the other” (1 Kings 7:17). The singular occurrence accents the uniqueness of this feature in Israel’s sacred architecture. Symbolic Significance 1. Covenant Security: The interlaced strands picture mutual support; each strand depends on its neighbor, illustrating corporate solidarity in the covenant community (compare Ecclesiastes 4:12). Historical and Cultural Insights Bronze lattices were common in Phoenician and Egyptian architecture, often symbolizing royal prestige. Israel’s adoption—yet adaptation—of such artistry underscores the universal kingship of YHWH while distinguishing His house from pagan temples by directing all ornamentation toward His glory rather than idolatrous imagery. Theological Themes • Holiness and Accessibility: The openness of the mesh speaks of a holy God who nonetheless invites approach. Practical Ministry Applications 1. Church Architecture and Art: Thoughtful, God-honoring aesthetics can point congregants to spiritual truths without detracting from the primacy of the Word. Related Biblical Concepts • “Lattice” (2 Kings 1:2) as a place of vulnerability, contrasting the Temple network’s strength. Further Study Examine Ezekiel 40–42 for prophetic temple measurements, noting absence of bronze lattices, and consider the typological shift from material splendor to spiritual glory in Hebrews 9–10. Forms and Transliterations שְׂבָכִ֞ים שבכים śə·ḇā·ḵîm śəḇāḵîm sevaChimLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel TextsEnglishman's Concordance 1 Kings 7:17 HEB: שְׂבָכִ֞ים מַעֲשֵׂ֣ה שְׂבָכָ֗ה KJV: [And] nets of checker work, INT: nets work nets 1 Occurrence |
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