גַּבְלֻת (gav.lut)
gav.lut
twists
H:N-FQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-F
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun gavlut describes a process of twisting, specifically referring to materials that have been wound tightly together. In the biblical text, it appears only twice, both within the priestly account of the tabernacle’s construction in Exodus 28:22 and 39:15.
It modifies the word for chains or cords (shereshot), creating a phrase that translates to "twisted cords." This technical term highlights the craftsmanship involved in making the ephod, where gold was spun into fine threads and twisted with blue, purple, and scarlet yarns. The word itself does not appear outside this specific context of sacred vestments.
The focus here is on structural integrity and texture. By specifying that the cords were gavlut, the text emphasizes that they were not merely plaited loosely but tightly wound to support the weight of the gold ornaments. This detail underscores the precision required in creating the high priest’s garments, where durability met beauty.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word gavlut describes cords that are twisted tightly together to create strength and durability. In Exodus, this technical term appears only twice during the creation of the high priest’s ephod. The artisans did not simply plait the gold threads loosely; they wound them with precision so the chains could support the weight of the breastplate stones.
This detail reminds us that God cares about the quality of our service. Just as the twisted cords held the names of Israel close to the priest’s heart, our faithful actions hold spiritual truths in place. The beauty of the garment relied on this hidden strength. We are invited to offer God work that is both beautiful and built to last.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- twisting2×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- גַּבְלֻ֖ת2×
Key Verses
-
Exodus 28:22
You shall make on the breastplate chains like cords, of braided work of pure gold.
This verse establishes the command to use twisted gold cords, linking the physical durability of the material to the sacred duty of carrying Israel's names.
-
Exodus 39:15
They made on the breastplate chains like cords, of braided work of pure gold.
Here the narrative confirms the execution of that command, showing that the final product met the specific standard of tight twisting required for the high priest's vestments.