from the same as מֶגֶד; preciousness, i.e. a gem; precious thing, present.
Transliteration:migdânâh
Pronunciation:mig-daw-naw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term migdânâh (`{{H4030}}`) is derived from the root meged (`{{H4029}}`), which conveys the idea of "preciousness," "excellence," or "choice fruit." Consequently, migdânâh inherently signifies something of high intrinsic value, desirability, or superior quality. Its semantic range encompasses "preciousness," "a gem," "a precious thing," or a "present." This suggests an object not merely given, but one that possesses significant worth, often associated with luxury, tribute, or a valuable commodity. The emphasis is on the inherent preciousness of the item itself.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word migdânâh (`{{H4030}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in the book of Ezekiel:
* **[[Ezekiel 27:22]]**: "The merchants of Sheba and Raamah traded with you; they exchanged for your wares the best of all spices, and all kinds of precious stones and gold."
In this singular occurrence, migdânâh is translated as "precious stones" (e.g., ESV, NASB) or "gems" (e.g., NIV). The context is a lamentation over Tyre, a powerful maritime city renowned for its vast trade networks and immense wealth. The verse describes the luxurious commodities that flowed into Tyre, highlighting its role as a hub for the world's most valuable goods. The inclusion of migdânâh alongside "spices" and "gold" underscores its status as a highly sought-after and expensive item, contributing significantly to Tyre's opulence and commercial prowess. This specific usage firmly anchors the word's meaning in tangible, highly valuable material possessions.
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of migdânâh (`{{H4030}}`) is enriched by examining its relationship to other Hebrew terms and concepts:
* **`{{H4029}}` (מֶגֶד, meged):** This is the direct root from which migdânâh is derived, meaning "preciousness," "excellence," or "choicest fruit." This connection emphasizes the inherent quality and value that defines migdânâh.
* **`{{H4503}}` (מִנְחָה, minḥāh):** A broader term for a "gift," "offering," or "tribute." While minḥāh can encompass various types of gifts, migdânâh would represent a specific category of minḥāh characterized by its exceptional preciousness and value.
* **`{{H7862}}` (שַׁי, shay):** Meaning a "present" or "gift," often given as a token of respect or submission. Migdânâh could certainly function as a shay due to its inherent worth.
* **`{{H4307}}` (מַתָּן, mattān):** Another general term for a "gift" or "present."
* **Precious Stones/Gems:** The explicit translation of migdânâh in [[Ezekiel 27:22]] directly links it to these highly valued material objects, often used for adornment, wealth storage, or trade.
* **Wealth and Luxury:** The context of Tyre's trade in Ezekiel highlights the economic and social significance of such "precious things" in accumulating vast wealth and symbolizing luxury.
### Theological Significance
Though migdânâh (`{{H4030}}`) appears only once, its singular occurrence within the prophetic discourse against Tyre in [[Ezekiel 27:22]] carries profound theological implications. The description of Tyre's immense wealth, derived from "precious things" like migdânâh, sets the stage for its subsequent judgment (Ezekiel 28). This serves as a powerful biblical illustration of the dangers inherent in the accumulation of earthly riches and the pride that can accompany them.
The allure of migdânâh—representing the pinnacle of material value—ultimately contributed to Tyre's hubris and its downfall. This subtly reinforces a recurring biblical theme: the transient nature of material wealth and the potential for "precious things" to become idols, diverting hearts from God (e.g., [[Matthew 6:19-21]]). While the word itself does not directly refer to spiritual treasures, its underlying meaning of "preciousness" resonates with how Scripture often describes the invaluable nature of wisdom ([[Proverbs 8:11]]), God's word ([[Psalm 119:72]]), or His people ([[Isaiah 43:4]])—values that far surpass any earthly migdânâh. The passage implicitly contrasts the fleeting glory derived from material "gems" with the enduring value of righteousness and humility before God.
### Summary
Migdânâh (`{{H4030}}`) is a rare and evocative Hebrew term, appearing uniquely in [[Ezekiel 27:22]]. Derived from meged (`{{H4029}}`), it denotes "preciousness," specifically referring to "gems" or "precious stones" in its sole biblical context. This word vividly portrays the valuable commodities that fueled Tyre's immense wealth and trade, underscoring the intrinsic worth of such items in ancient commerce. Theologically, its placement within the prophecy against Tyre serves as a poignant reminder of the potential for material abundance, even of the most "precious things," to foster pride and lead to ultimate judgment, thereby highlighting the enduring biblical emphasis on spiritual values over transient earthly treasures.
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