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Genesis 9:23

And Name is taking,346 and Opened, אֶת-the Mantle,347 and they are placing upon the shoulder348 of their double, and they are walking backward,349 and are covering אֶת-the naked-one of their father. And their faces are backward, and the naked-one of their father they have not seen.

Footnote:

347

The Dress

(ha-simlah):

  • Definition: The term השמלה (ha-simlah) refers to a "wrapper" or "dress," specifically denoting a garment that covers or wraps around. It is a feminine noun with a definite article (ha), emphasizing a specific item of clothing.
  • Occurrences: Found three times in the Hebrew Bible:
    • Genesis 9:23: Refers to a garment used to cover Noah.
    • Deuteronomy 22:17: Used in the context of a bride's attire, emphasizing its significance in the cultural norms of weddings/marriage.
    • Judges 8:25: Mentioned in the context of the spoils taken by Gideon from his conquest.
  • Usage: השמלה highlights the functional aspect of a garment that covers or envelops, often associated with dignity, protection, or cultural symbolism.

Other Hebrew Words for "Cloak" and "Outer Garment":

  • לְבושׁ (lebush) - Strong's #3830: A garment, clothing, raiment. Used to describe various types of clothing or attire worn by individuals. It refers to the covering or apparel that someone wears.

  • מעיל (me'il) - Strong's #4598: A robe, usually an outer garment worn as a mantle or cloak. Often used to denote a special or ceremonial robe, such as the robe of the high priest or a robe of authority.

  • בגד (beged) - Strong's #899: Apparel, garment, covering (of treachery/deceit). The verb בגד (bagad) Strong's #898 means "to act treacherously," "to deal deceitfully," or "to betray."

  • סדין (sadin) - Strong's #5466: A linen garment, specifically a wrapper or rectangular piece of fine linen. Typically refers to a linen cloth or garment worn either as an outer covering or, traditionally, as a sole garment at night.