אַפִּרְיוֹן (ap.pir.yon)
ap.pir.yon
carriage
H:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-M
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun apiryon refers to a covered carriage or sedan chair, a vehicle designed for carrying passengers rather than pulling loads. In the Old Testament, it appears only once, in Song of Solomon 3:9, where it describes the royal litter carried by sixty mighty men.
While some modern sources occasionally list "chariot" as a secondary meaning, the primary sense is that of a palanquin or sedan. This distinction matters because a chariot is an open vehicle for speed and battle, whereas an apiryon is a enclosed, cushioned seat meant for comfort and status. The imagery in Song of Solomon emphasizes luxury and protection, fitting the context of a royal procession.
The word likely entered Hebrew from Egyptian or Aramaic roots, reflecting the cultural exchange of the ancient Near East. Its sole biblical occurrence highlights the wealth and grandeur associated with King Solomon’s reign, using the apiryon as a symbol of peaceable power rather than military force.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word apiryon describes a covered carriage or sedan chair, designed for comfort and status rather than speed or battle. In Song of Solomon 3:9, it appears as part of King Solomon’s royal procession, carried by sixty mighty men. This image highlights peaceable power, luxury, and protection, contrasting with the open chariots used in war.
For your faith, this word invites you to consider how God uses symbols of honor and care in Scripture. The apiryon is not just a vehicle; it represents dignity and safety. In our lives, we often seek security and respect, and this passage reminds us that true worth comes from being valued by the King.
When you read about Solomon’s carriage, think of how God values you. He does not leave you exposed to the elements but provides cover and care. This ancient term points to a deeper truth: you are cherished, protected, and honored in His sight. Let this bring you peace and confidence in your daily walk.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- a litter1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- אַפִּרְי֗וֹן1×
Key Verses
-
Song of Solomon 3:9
King Solomon made himself a carriage of the wood of Lebanon.
This verse uniquely uses apiryon to depict a royal litter carried by guards, emphasizing protection and status rather than military might.