מַרְבָד (mar.vad)
mar.vad
covering
H:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-M
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun marbad refers to a spread or coverlet, specifically a large cloth used for covering. It appears only twice in the Old Testament, both times within the book of Proverbs, where it describes items associated with wealth and status.
In Proverbs 31:21, the virtuous woman ensures her household is not afraid of cold because they are clothed in scarlet, or more precisely, covered with marbad. This usage suggests a heavy, protective textile, likely woolen, that provides warmth and dignity. The word emphasizes practical care and provision within the home.
Its rare occurrence highlights its specific function as a substantial covering rather than a light garment. Translators typically render it as "coverlets" or "scarves," reflecting its role in providing comfort and protection against the elements, underscoring the wisdom of preparedness found in the text.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word marbad refers to a substantial covering, often translated as a carpet or coverlet. In ancient times, these heavy textiles were more than mere decoration; they provided essential warmth and protection against the cold. This term appears only twice in Scripture, linking it closely with the care taken in preparing a home for its inhabitants.
When we read about the virtuous woman in Proverbs 31, we see her making coverings of tapestry for herself. This detail highlights a quiet dignity and practical wisdom. It reminds us that caring for our physical needs is part of living faithfully. Preparing a warm and safe space for those around us reflects a heart attentive to God’s provision.
May you find comfort in knowing that God cares about the small, daily details of your life. Just as these coverings protected against the chill, His presence brings warmth to your seasons of uncertainty. May your home be a place of peace and preparedness.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- coverings2×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- מַרְבַדִּ֥ים1×
- מַ֭רְבַדִּים1×
Key Verses
-
Proverbs 7:16
I have spread my couch with carpets of tapestry, with striped cloths of the yarn of Egypt.
This verse describes spreading carpets on a couch, showing marbad as an item used for comfort and hospitality in intimate settings.
-
Proverbs 31:22
She makes for herself carpets of tapestry. Her clothing is fine linen and purple.
Here the virtuous woman makes coverings of tapestry for herself, indicating that such items were part of her dignified personal wardrobe rather than just household furniture.