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Bolster

The Hebrew word kebir, rendered “pillow” in 1 Sam. 19:13, 16, but in Revised Version marg. “quilt” or “network,” probably means some counterpane or veil intended to protect the head of the sleeper. A different Hebrew word (meraashoth’) is used for “bolster” (1 Sam. 26:7, 11, 16). It is rightly rendered in Revised Version “at his head.” In Gen. 28:11, 18 the Authorized Version renders it “for his pillows,” and the Revised Version “under his head.” In Ezek. 13:18, 20 another Hebrew word (kesathoth) is used, properly denoting “cushions” or “pillows,” as so rendered both in the Authorized and the Revised Version.

In the Bible

6

Verses where Bolster is named. Berean Standard Bible (public domain).

  • 1 Samuel 19:13

    Then Michal took a household idol and laid it in the bed, placed some goat hair on its head, and covered it with a garment.

  • 1 Samuel 19:16

    And when the messengers entered, there was the idol in the bed with the goat hair on its head.

  • 1 Samuel 26:7

    That night David and Abishai came to the troops, and Saul was lying there asleep in the inner circle of the camp, with his spear stuck in the ground by his head. And Abner and the troops were lying around him.

  • 1 Samuel 26:11

    But the LORD forbid that I should extend my hand against the LORD’s anointed. Instead, take the spear and water jug by his head, and let us go.”

  • 1 Samuel 26:12

    So David took the spear and water jug by Saul’s head, and they departed. No one saw them or knew about it, nor did anyone wake up; they all remained asleep, because a deep sleep from the LORD had fallen on them.

  • 1 Samuel 26:16

    This thing you have done is not good. As surely as the LORD lives, all of you deserve to die, since you did not protect your lord, the LORD’s anointed. Now look around. Where are the king’s spear and water jug that were by his head?”

Scripture on Bolster

4

Sources · Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897)

Public-domain text. Modernized only where archaic spelling impedes reading; original facts preserved. Verify against an authoritative modern reference before quoting.