בְּרוֹם
𐤁𐤓𐤅𐤌
bᵉrôwm
H1264 noun
SILEX Entry
Definition
A textile of mixed or richly woven threads, especially fine or patterned cloth; often designates luxurious attire or fabric, such as damask, indicative of wealth or high social status. In biblical usage, the term refers to a type of rich or variegated fabric, likely imported, that was considered valuable and opulent.
Semantic Range
luxurious textile, rich fabric, damask, variegated or embroidered cloth, imported apparel
Root / Etymology
Root uncertain; the word is likely a loanword from a foreign language, possibly of Syrian (Aramean) origin, referring historically to textiles produced in the region of Damascus (cf. 'damask'). The connection to any Hebrew root is tenuous or absent.
Historical & Contextual Notes
בְּרוֹם (bᵉrôwm) occurs only in Ezekiel 16:10, where it describes the luxurious apparel provided in a metaphor for Jerusalem's elevated status. The fabric referred to is associated with affluence and trade, and its precise material is debated; it could be woven with variegated or figured patterns, or made with colored threads. The later English term 'damask,' used in certain translations, reflects a historical association with Damascus as a center of textile production. The word does not denote native Israelite weaving but rather imported luxury, highlighting the wealth or splendor of a context. It is distinct from other Hebrew words for fabric (e.g., שֵׁשׁ, 'fine linen'; אַרְגָּמָן, 'purple cloth'). Translations sometimes render it as 'broidered work' or 'embroidered cloth,' but the emphasis is on extravagance and foreign origin.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
probably of foreign origin; damask (stuff of variegated thread); rich apparel.
Bantu Hebrew
No Bantu Hebrew comparisons have been submitted for this word yet.
+ Add Bantu Hebrew WordRoot Family
ברם (b-r-m) — uncertain; rich textile, variegated fabric, luxury cloth
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
H1264-01 |
בְּרֹמִ֑ים | beromim | HNcmpa |
rich apparel | luxurious woven fabrics | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 total occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
H1264-01 |
Ezekiel 27:24 | בְּרֹמִ֑ים | beromim | HNcmpa |
rich apparel | luxurious woven fabrics |