ephod
Extremely Rare / SpecializedFormal / Specialised / Academic / Religious
Definition
Meaning
A sacred, apron-like vestment worn by high priests in ancient Israel.
A ceremonial garment, particularly of religious significance in Jewish and Christian contexts; sometimes used metaphorically for high religious or authoritative office.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
The term is used almost exclusively in religious or archaeological contexts, specifically regarding ancient Hebrew religion and history. It denotes a specific object from a specific tradition and period. Its primary association is with the biblical high priesthood and the associated tabernacle/temple service.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant spelling or usage differences exist; the word is identical in both varieties. Its occurrence is primarily in religious studies or biblical scholarship contexts common to both.
Connotations
The connotations are identical: religious, ancient, and highly specialised.
Frequency
Frequency is equally near-zero in both regional varieties. It is not part of general vocabulary.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
The [High Priest] wore an ephod.The ephod was made of [linen/gold].He consulted [the divine will] using the ephod.The ephod of [material].Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “To bear the ephod (meaning to hold the office of high priest).”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in religious studies, archaeology, theology, and history of ancient Near Eastern religions.
Everyday
Virtually never used in everyday conversation.
Technical
Technical term within biblical studies and archaeology for a specific artifact.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- Not applicable; 'ephod' is solely a noun.
American English
- Not applicable; 'ephod' is solely a noun.
adverb
British English
- Not applicable.
American English
- Not applicable.
adjective
British English
- Not applicable; 'ephodal' is a potential but extremely rare adjectival form.
American English
- Not applicable; 'ephodal' is a potential but extremely rare adjectival form.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- (Not applicable at A2 level)
- In the Bible, the high priest wore a special vestment called an ephod.
- The ephod was a very important part of the priest's clothing.
- Archaeological discussions often reference the ephod when describing artifacts related to ancient Hebrew worship.
- The intricate design of the ephod, with its precious stones and gold threads, symbolised the priest's role as an intermediary.
- Scholars debate whether the 'ephod' mentioned in the Book of Judges was a simple linen garment or the more elaborate, oracular vestment of the high priest.
- The theological significance of the ephod extends beyond its material form, representing divine authority and the means of seeking God's will.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: EPHOD = 'Elaborate Priest's Holy Ornamented Dress'. It was worn by the high priest in the Old Testament.
Conceptual Metaphor
Religious authority (e.g., 'He assumed the ephod of leadership' – metaphorically).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid confusing it with 'ефод' which is a direct transliteration and correct, but ensure the specific cultural/religious context is understood; it is not a general word for clothing or apron ('передник').
Common Mistakes
- Using 'ephod' as a general term for any religious robe; mispronouncing it as 'ef-od' or 'ee-fohd'; confusing it with other priestly garments like the 'breastplate' (which was attached to it).
Practice
Quiz
An ephod is primarily associated with which of the following?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
An ephod was a special, apron-like vestment worn by the high priest in ancient Israel, as described in the Hebrew Bible. It was often made of fine linen and decorated with gold, blue, purple, and scarlet threads, and sometimes held the Urim and Thummim used for divination.
No, it is an extremely rare and specialised term. You will only encounter it in religious, biblical, historical, or archaeological contexts.
Yes, though rarely. It can be used metaphorically to refer to the office or authority of a high priest or religious leader (e.g., 'he took up the ephod of the community').
In British English, it's pronounced /ˈiːfɒd/ (EE-fod). In American English, it's /ˈiːfɑːd/ (EE-fahd). The stress is on the first syllable.