### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **hêykâl**, represented by `{{H1964}}`, refers to a large public building. It appears 80 times across 76 unique verses. Derived from a root meaning capacity, it is used to denote both a royal **palace** and a sacred **temple**, signifying a place of great importance and majesty.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H1964}}` is used to describe two primary types of significant structures. Most frequently, it refers to the **temple** of the LORD, the central location for worship and divine presence for Israel [[Habakkuk 2:20]]. It is the place from which God hears prayer [[Psalms 18:6]] and where His glory is revealed [[Isaiah 6:1]]. The word is also used to describe the **palace** of an earthly king, such as the king of Babylon [[Daniel 1:4]] or King Ahab [[1 Kings 21:1]], highlighting its association with royal authority and residence. The term can also be used figuratively to describe something of great beauty and structure, as when daughters are compared to polished corner stones of a **palace** [[Psalms 144:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the architectural and conceptual space of a **temple** or **palace**:
* `{{H1004}}` **bayith** (house): This is a broad term for a dwelling, frequently used for the **temple** as the "house of the LORD" [[Psalms 27:4]]. It emphasizes the structure as a place of inhabitation, whether for a family or for God.
* `{{H1687}}` **dᵉbîyr** (oracle): This word specifies the innermost part of the sanctuary, or the shrine. It is used alongside **hêykâl** to distinguish the general temple area from its most sacred space [[1 Kings 6:5]].
* `{{H197}}` **ʼûwlâm** (porch): This refers to a vestibule, an architectural feature that served as an entrance to the larger **temple** building. It marks the transition point between the outer courts and the sacred interior [[Ezekiel 8:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H1964}}` is centered on the concept of God's presence with humanity.
* **The Divine Dwelling:** The **temple** is presented as the earthly dwelling place of God, a sanctuary where heaven and earth meet. The LORD is described as being "in his holy **temple**," with His throne in heaven [[Psalms 11:4]].
* **A Place of Worship and Encounter:** It is the designated location for worship and seeking God. The faithful direct their prayers and praise toward the holy **temple**, acknowledging it as the focal point of their connection to God ([[Psalms 5:7]], [[Psalms 138:2]]).
* **The Center of Divine Authority:** As God's dwelling, the **temple** is also the source from which His voice and judgment emanate. God hears from His **temple** [[2 Samuel 22:7]] and speaks from it to render recompense to His enemies [[Isaiah 66:6]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1964}}` is a term loaded with connotations of majesty, authority, and sanctity. Whether referring to a king's **palace** or, more importantly, the LORD's **temple**, it signifies the center of power and presence. The word encapsulates the physical manifestation of both royal and divine glory, serving as the sacred space where humanity could approach and worship God.
TRV