Litter

LITTER. A framework with long horizontal shafts near the bottom and with an enclosed couch on which a person can be carried. 1. צָב, H7369, is used in Isaiah 66:20, where the prophet represents the converted nations as being brought to Jerusalem “upon horses, and in chariots, and in litters, and upon mules, and upon dromedaries”: and in Numbers 7:3, where the word is tr. “covered wagons.”

2. מִטָּה, H4753, is used of Solomon’s palanquin (Song of Solomon; cf. v. 9), which was a very elaborate affair. 2 Maccabees 9:8 says that Antiochus was carried in a litter after he had fallen from his chariot and severely injured himself. Litters were carried by men, mules, or camels. See Bed; Couch.

International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (1915)

(1) Used upon backs of camels for easy riding, made of a wooden frame with light mattress and pillows, also a covering above, supported by upright pieces, sometimes having also side awnings for protection from the sun’s rays. Mule litters were made with pairs of shafts projecting before and behind, between which the animals were yoked (Isa 66:20). Litter-wagons (’eghloth tsabh) are mentioned in Nu 7:3; the horse litter (phorion) is mentioned in 2 Macc 9:8; compare 3:27. (2) miTTah, "palanquin" or "litter of Solomon" (So 3:7; compare So 3:9).

See Palanquin.