☀️
← Back to Lexicon
H899 · Hebrew · Old Testament
בֶּגֶד
Beged
Noun, masculine
Garment / Clothing / Treachery

Definition

The Hebrew word beged (בֶּגֶד) has a remarkable dual meaning: it means both a garment or clothing AND treachery or faithlessness. Both meanings derive from the same root, with the verbal form meaning to act treacherously or deceitfully. This dual meaning creates rich theological wordplay throughout the Old Testament, where clothing and moral character are intertwined.

Usage & Theological Significance

Beged connects the outer garment to inner moral reality. The "garments of salvation" and "robe of righteousness" in Isaiah 61:10 speak of God clothing His redeemed people in moral perfection. Zechariah 3 shows the high priest Joshua in filthy garments (representing sin/treachery) being reclothed in clean garments as a picture of justification. The act of tearing garments (qara beged) signified grief and repentance. The soldiers who cast lots for Jesus's garments at the crucifixion (Psalm 22:18) fulfilled prophecy — the ultimate treachery and ultimate sacrifice intertwined in one moment.

Key Bible Verses

Genesis 39:12 She caught him by his cloak and said, "Come to bed with me!" But he left his cloak in her hand and ran out of the house.
Isaiah 61:10 For he has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of his righteousness.
Zechariah 3:3 Now Joshua was dressed in filthy clothes as he stood before the angel.
Psalm 22:18 They divide my clothes among them and cast lots for my garment.
Malachi 2:16 "The man who hates and divorces his wife," says the LORD God of Israel, "does violence to the one he should protect," says the LORD Almighty. "So be on your guard, and do not be unfaithful."

Related Words

External Resources