תַּשְׁבֵּץ
𐤕𐤔𐤁𐤑
tashbêts
H8665 noun
SILEX Entry
Definition
A fabric distinguished by an interwoven, lattice-like or checkered pattern, often associated in biblical contexts with high-status garments or ceremonial vestments such as the ephod or breastpiece worn by priests. The term refers specifically to the technique or appearance of the fabric, which could feature intricate designs achieved by weaving or embroidery.
Semantic Range
checkered or patterned fabric, reticulated (lattice-like) textile, woven or brocaded cloth for ceremonial use, ornamented priestly garment component
Root / Etymology
From the root שָׁבַץ (sh-b-ts), meaning 'to inlay, to interweave, to set (as in latticework or with precious stones).' The noun תַּשְׁבֵּץ derives from this root, signifying an object or fabric characterized by inlaid, interwoven, or checkered motifs. Although the root suggests a broader idea of setting or fitting together, the noun is used specifically for textile work in the Hebrew Bible.
Historical & Contextual Notes
תַּשְׁבֵּץ occurs only in descriptions of priestly garments, especially in the instructions regarding the ephod and breastpiece in Exodus (Exod 28:4, 39; 39:22, 27). The term denotes not simply embroidery, but a specific kind of patterned or ornamental fabric, possibly achieved by techniques akin to brocading, inlay, or a reticulated (grid-like) weave. In English translations, it is sometimes rendered as 'broidered,' 'checkered,' or 'woven work,' each of which captures aspects of the term's meaning but not necessarily its full nuance. There is no indication that the term refers to everyday clothing; its usage is restricted to ceremonial and sacred contexts, underscoring the ceremonial distinction and craftsmanship required for priestly service. The term is distinct from other words for embroidered (e.g., רקם) or woven (e.g., ארג) work, emphasizing patterning rather than merely technique.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
from שָׁבַץ; checkered stuff (as reticulated); broidered.
Bantu Hebrew
No Bantu Hebrew comparisons have been submitted for this word yet.
+ Add Bantu Hebrew WordRoot Family
שבץ (sh-b-ts) — to inlay, to set, to fit together, to interweave, to decorate
| Strong's | Lemma | SIBI-P1 |
|---|---|---|
| H4865 | מִשְׁבְּצָה | filigree gem-settings of |
| H7636 | שָׁבִיס | the interwoven hair-nets |
| H7660 | שָׁבַץ | inlaid ones |
| H7661 | שָׁבָץ | the entanglement |
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
H8665-01 |
תַּשְׁבֵּ֖ץ | tashebets | HNcmsa |
of checkered work | interwoven patterned fabric | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 total occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
H8665-01 |
Exodus 28:4 | תַּשְׁבֵּ֖ץ | tashebets | HNcmsa |
of checkered work | interwoven patterned fabric |