### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **migdânâh**, represented by `{{H4030}}`, denotes **preciousness**, specifically a gem, a **precious thing**, or a present. Its definition points to items of high value and significance. According to usage statistics, this term appears only **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible, making each instance particularly noteworthy.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H4030}}` consistently appears in contexts involving the transfer of significant wealth or honor. When Abraham's servant secured Rebekah as a wife for Isaac, he gave her family **precious things** alongside jewels of silver and gold [[Genesis 24:53]]. A father gave his sons great gifts, including **precious things**, as part of their inheritance [[2 Chronicles 21:3]]. The term is also used for the **presents** brought by many nations to honor King Hezekiah, which served to magnify him [[2 Chronicles 32:23]]. Finally, it describes valuable items given to the Israelites to aid them in their return from exile [[Ezra 1:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to frame the meaning of **migdânâh** by describing other forms of wealth and gifts:
* `{{H3701}}` **keçeph** (silver): This word for silver, and by implication money, frequently appears alongside `{{H4030}}`, establishing a context of tangible wealth, such as the gifts given for the rebuilding effort in Ezra [[Ezra 1:6]] or by a father to his sons [[2 Chronicles 21:3]].
* `{{H2091}}` **zâhâb** (gold): Defined as gold or something gold-colored, this term is almost always paired with **migdânâh** in scripture. These gifts of **gold** and **precious things** underscore the great value being conveyed [[Genesis 24:53]].
* `{{H7399}}` **rᵉkûwsh** (property): Meaning property, goods, riches, or substance, this word is used in parallel with **precious things** to describe the material support given to the returning exiles, encompassing all their collected assets [[Ezra 1:6]].
* `{{H899}}` **beged** (garment): This word for a covering or clothing is listed as one of the valuable items given to Rebekah's family, differentiating the **precious things** from other types of valuable goods like **raiment** [[Genesis 24:53]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{H4030}}` highlights several key themes centered on value and provision.
* **Tangible expression of honor:** Gifts described as **migdânâh** are not casual; they are given to signify high esteem and to magnify the recipient, as seen when King Hezekiah received **presents** from the nations [[2 Chronicles 32:23]].
* **Covenant and Inheritance:** The term is used in the context of foundational agreements and familial provision. It is part of the exchange to secure Isaac's marriage covenant [[Genesis 24:53]] and part of a king's inheritance distribution to his children [[2 Chronicles 21:3]].
* **Provision for a Divine Purpose:** In Ezra, the **precious things** are given to strengthen the hands of those returning to Judah, contributing to the restoration of God's people and their community [[Ezra 1:6]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4030}}` **migdânâh** is a specific term for gifts of exceptional value. Though used sparingly, it consistently signifies more than a simple present. It represents a transfer of significant wealth intended to honor a king, secure a covenant, provide a royal inheritance, or equip God's people for a great undertaking. Its repeated association with **gold**, **silver**, and other valuable goods firmly establishes its meaning as a gift of precious and noteworthy substance.
TRV