from an unused root probably meaning to be eminent; properly, a distinguished thing; hence something valuable, as aproduct or fruit; pleasant, precious fruit (thing).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **meged**, represented by `{{H4022}}`, describes a distinguished or valuable thing. Derived from a root meaning to be eminent, it is used for something precious, such as a product or fruit. This word appears **8 times** across **7 unique verses** in the Bible, consistently denoting the choicest and most pleasant of things.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H4022}}` appears prominently in contexts of blessing and intimate delight. In the blessing of Joseph, it is repeatedly used to describe the **precious things** of creation: from heaven, the earth, the sun, the moon, and the ancient mountains [[Deuteronomy 33:13-16]]. These verses frame **meged** as a sign of divine favor and immense natural bounty. In the Song of Solomon, the word is translated as **pleasant** fruits, signifying the choicest produce of a garden, which is offered from one beloved to another as a token of love and intimacy [[Song of Solomon 4:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{H4022}}` by highlighting its connection to produce, value, and excellence:
* `{{H6529}}` **pᵉrîy** (fruit): This word for fruit, both literal and figurative, is often paired directly with **meged** to specify "pleasant **fruits**" in a garden setting [[Song of Solomon 4:13]].
* `{{H8393}}` **tᵉbûwʼâh** (fruit, gain, increase, revenue): Similar to **pᵉrîy**, this term for produce or income is used with **meged** to describe the "precious **fruits** brought forth by the sun" in the blessing of Joseph [[Deuteronomy 33:14]].
* `{{H7218}}` **rôʼsh** (head, chief): This word is used in parallel with **meged** to denote excellence, describing the "**chief things** of the ancient mountains" alongside the "**precious things** of the lasting hills" [[Deuteronomy 33:15]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4022}}` is centered on the concepts of divine giftedness and the value of a choice offering.
* **Divine Provision:** The word is overwhelmingly used in Deuteronomy 33 to catalog the blessings from God upon the land of Joseph. It underscores that the most **precious things** of creation—from the dew of heaven to the bounty of the earth—are a direct result of God's favor [[Deuteronomy 33:13]].
* **Mark of Distinction:** The term's root meaning, "to be eminent," is reflected in its application to Joseph, who was "separated from his brethren" [[Deuteronomy 33:16]]. The **precious things** are a physical manifestation of his distinguished and blessed status.
* **Relational Value:** In the Song of Solomon, the "pleasant fruits" are not merely food but are part of a beautiful, aromatic garden offered to the beloved. This elevates the meaning from simple produce to a symbol of joy, delight, and the giving of one's best in a relationship [[Song of Solomon 7:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4022}}` is a specific and meaningful term that goes beyond a generic item of value. It signifies a distinguished and precious gift, representing the best that either creation or a person has to offer. Whether describing the boundless provision of God's blessing or the intimate joys shared between loved ones, **meged** consistently points to that which is eminent, pleasant, and highly prized.
TRV