Lexical Summary sachiph: Lintel Original Word: שָׁחִיף Strong's Exhaustive Concordance cieled with From the same as shachaph; a board (as chipped thin) -- cieled with. see HEBREW shachaph NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originof uncertain derivation Definition perhaps paneled NASB Translation paneled (1). Topical Lexicon Location in the Biblical Text שָׁחִיף appears once, in Ezekiel 41:16, within the prophet’s detailed, Spirit-inspired vision of a future temple. The verse, in part, reads: “The thresholds, the beveled windows, and the galleries all around their three sides, opposite the threshold, were paneled with wood on every side…” (Berean Standard Bible). Architectural Context Ezekiel 40–48 describes a sanctuary unlike Solomon’s or Zerubbabel’s, presenting ideal dimensions and features that express God’s holiness and order. שָׁחִיף is mentioned alongside thresholds and galleries, terms that together form a picture of careful craftsmanship. Whether rendered “beveled windows,” “recessed frames,” or another nuance, the word points to the precision of temple components fitted to exact measurements (compare Ezekiel 40:5; 43:10). In ancient Near-Eastern buildings, recesses or sloped frames allowed light and air while protecting interior spaces; in Ezekiel’s temple they serve the added purpose of symbolizing a barrier between sacred and profane. Function and Design 1. Light and visibility – The recess or bevel permits illumination without exposing the holy inner rooms to outside gaze, maintaining the principle that “the Lord dwells in unapproachable light” (1 Timothy 6:16). Symbolic Resonances • Separation and Approach: Just as the beveled frame mediates between the open exterior and the guarded interior, the covenant mediates between a holy God and redeemed worshipers (Hebrews 10:19–22). Historical Background Ezekiel prophesied among exiles in Babylon. They had lost Solomon’s temple and wondered whether covenant promises still held. By recording exact dimensions and naming obscure features such as שָׁחִיף, the prophet reassured the people that restoration would not be generic but precise—God had a blueprint, and exile had not altered His purposes (Ezekiel 37:26–28). Ministry Applications • Careful Obedience: Leaders and congregations are reminded that faithfulness extends to “minor” details (Luke 16:10). Whether drafting church bylaws or constructing facilities, accuracy honors God. Intertextual Connections • Exodus 25–27: The tabernacle’s sockets, rings, and clasps parallel Ezekiel’s recesses; both underscore covenant continuity. Conclusion Though שָׁחִיף surfaces only once, it contributes to the Bible’s grand testimony that God is both meticulous and merciful. A single recessed frame in a prophetic temple reminds every generation that the Lord who designs with precision also redeems with perfection, inviting His people to worship Him “in the splendor of holiness” (Psalm 96:9). Forms and Transliterations שְׂחִ֥יף שחיף śə·ḥîp̄ seChif śəḥîp̄Links Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel TextsEnglishman's Concordance Ezekiel 41:16 HEB: נֶ֧גֶד הַסַּ֛ף שְׂחִ֥יף עֵ֖ץ סָבִ֣יב ׀ NAS: the threshold, were paneled with wood KJV: the door, cieled with wood INT: opposite the threshold were paneled wood about 1 Occurrence |
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