7638. sabak
Lexical Summary
sabak: To interweave, entwine, or entangle

Original Word: שָׂבָךְ
Part of Speech: Noun Masculine
Transliteration: sabak
Pronunciation: sah-BAHK
Phonetic Spelling: (saw-bawk')
KJV: net
Word Origin: [from an unused root meaning to intwine]

1. a netting (ornament to the capital of a column)

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 Origin
the 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).
2. Heavenly Mediation: Positioned between earth-bound pillars and the lily motif pointing upward, the lattice mediates space—suggesting the veil between the earthly court and the heavenly throne (Hebrews 8:5).
3. Ordered Beauty: The precise, repeating pattern embodies the orderly character of divine worship (1 Corinthians 14:33, 40).

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.
• Strength in Unity: The inseparable links foreshadow the Church as “living stones” built together (1 Peter 2:5).
• Eschatological Anticipation: Just as the lattice crowned the pillars at the temple entrance, so Revelation portrays the New Jerusalem’s gates perpetually open, fashioned from materials of incomparable beauty (Revelation 21:12-25).

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.
2. Leadership Structure: Like interwoven chains, biblical eldership thrives on mutual support and accountability (Philippians 1:1; Titus 1:5).
3. Discipleship Networking: The motif encourages small-group and mentoring ministries where believers’ lives are intentionally interlaced (2 Timothy 2:2).

Related Biblical Concepts

• “Lattice” (2 Kings 1:2) as a place of vulnerability, contrasting the Temple network’s strength.
• “Screens of finely spun linen” in the Tabernacle (Exodus 26:36-37) showing continuity of ornate craftsmanship.
• “Chains” used in High-Priestly garments (Exodus 28:14) linking the priestly and architectural symbolism.

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 sevaChim
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Englishman's Concordance
1 Kings 7:17
HEB: שְׂבָכִ֞ים מַעֲשֵׂ֣ה שְׂבָכָ֗ה
KJV: [And] nets of checker work,
INT: nets work nets

1 Occurrence

Strong's Hebrew 7638
1 Occurrence


śə·ḇā·ḵîm — 1 Occ.

7637
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