שָׁקֻף
𐤔𐤒𐤐
shâquph
H8261 noun
SILEX Entry
Definition
A panel or latticework forming the upper part of a window or opening, often found in architectural descriptions, particularly referring to window frames or latticed structures above doorways or windows. In biblical contexts, שָׁקֻף primarily designates this fixed, often decorative, part of an opening that allows light and air to enter.
Semantic Range
latticework window frame, upper part of a window opening, architectural grating, structure allowing light or view, window (in a restricted architectural sense)
Root / Etymology
Derived from the root שׁקף (to look out, overlook, gaze), the form שָׁקֻף is a passive participle, functioning substantively here. It is related to structures or features intended for seeing or letting light through, but as a noun it describes the architectural element rather than the action.
Historical & Contextual Notes
Appearing in texts describing the construction of the Temple and Solomon's palace (e.g., 1 Kings 6 and 7), שָׁקֻף refers to window frameworks, typically with latticework. It differs from שֶׁקֶף, another term for an architectural frame or window, though the two are closely related; both point to openings for light, with שָׁקֻף emphasizing the upper frame or grating. The term occurs exclusively in descriptions of elite or monumental buildings, not ordinary homes. Standard English translations usually render it as 'window,' 'window frame,' or 'lattice,' but the specificity of the Hebrew construction is sometimes lost—biblical usage implies an architectural feature with both decorative and practical functions. No direct theological significance is ascribed to the term, and it denotes a physical structure rather than a symbolic or ritual object.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
passive participle of שָׁקַף; (compare שֶׁקֶף); an embrasure or opening with bevelled jam; light, window.
Bantu Hebrew
No Bantu Hebrew comparisons have been submitted for this word yet.
+ Add Bantu Hebrew WordRoot Family
שׁקף (š-q-p) — to look out, overlook, gaze
| Strong's | Lemma | SIBI-P1 |
|---|---|---|
| H4947 | מַשְׁקוֹף | the overhanging lintel |
| H8259 | שָׁקַף | the one being looked-out-from above |
Word Forms
2 distinct forms
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
H8261-02 |
וּ/שְׁקֻפִ֖ים | ushequfim | HC/Ncmpa |
and windows | and latticed window-frames | 1 |
H8261-01 |
שְׁקֻפִ֥ים | shequfim | HNcmpa |
of framed | look-out lattice frames | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
2 total occurrences
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
H8261-01 |
1 Kings 6:4 | שְׁקֻפִ֥ים | shequfim | HNcmpa |
of framed | look-out lattice frames |
H8261-02 |
1 Kings 7:4 | וּ/שְׁקֻפִ֖ים | ushequfim | HC/Ncmpa |
and windows | and latticed window-frames |