### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mᵉgillâh**, represented by `{{H4039}}`, is defined as a **roll** or **volume**. It appears 21 times across 19 unique verses in the Bible. The term consistently refers to a scroll, a common medium for recording important information, laws, and prophetic messages in the ancient world.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4039}}` is prominently featured as a vessel for divine revelation. God commands Jeremiah to take a **roll** of a book and write upon it all the words He had spoken against Israel and Judah [[Jeremiah 36:2]]. After this first **roll** is defiantly burned by King Jehoiakim [[Jeremiah 36:23]], the Lord instructs Jeremiah to take another **roll** and rewrite all the former words, with more added [[Jeremiah 36:32]]. In a symbolic act, the prophet Ezekiel is commanded to eat a **roll** given to him, which tastes as sweet as honey, signifying the internalization of God's word [[Ezekiel 3:1-3]]. The term is also used in a vision where Zechariah sees a flying **roll** [[Zechariah 5:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the function and content of the **mᵉgillâh**:
* `{{H5612}}` **çêpher**: This word for **book** or **scroll** is frequently used in conjunction with `{{H4039}}`, as in the phrase "a roll of a book" ([[Jeremiah 36:4]], [[Ezekiel 2:9]]), clarifying the object's purpose as a written document.
* `{{H3789}}` **kâthab**: Meaning **to write**, this is the action performed upon a **roll**. Baruch **wrote** the words of the LORD on the **roll** from Jeremiah's mouth [[Jeremiah 36:4]], and King Jehoiakim challenged why Jeremiah had **written** the prophecies of destruction [[Jeremiah 36:29]].
* `{{H7121}}` **qârâʼ**: This word, meaning **to read** or proclaim, describes how the contents of the **roll** are communicated. Jehudi **read** the **roll** to King Jehoiakim before it was burned [[Jeremiah 36:21]], and Baruch was instructed to **read** from the **roll** to the people [[Jeremiah 36:6]].
* `{{H1697}}` **dâbâr**: This term for **word** or matter represents the content inscribed on the **roll**. The **roll** contained "all the **words**" the LORD had spoken [[Jeremiah 36:2]], and after the first was burned, the second contained "all the **words** of the book" that was destroyed [[Jeremiah 36:32]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4039}}` is significant, highlighting the tangible nature of God's communication.
* **Vessel for Prophecy:** The **roll** serves as the physical medium for God's direct words to His prophets. It transforms a spoken message into a permanent record that can be preserved, read, and passed on [[Jeremiah 36:2]].
* **Permanence of God's Word:** The account of King Jehoiakim burning the **roll** demonstrates a key theme. While the physical object can be destroyed, the divine words it contains cannot be nullified. God simply commands another **roll** to be written, reinforcing the indestructibility of His message ([[Jeremiah 36:28]], 36:32).
* **Internalization of Revelation:** Ezekiel being commanded to eat the **roll** is a powerful metaphor. The prophet must fully consume and assimilate God's message, making it a part of his very being before he can declare it to others [[Ezekiel 3:1-3]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4039}}` is more than just an ancient writing material. It is a crucial element in the story of divine revelation, representing the physical embodiment of God's word. Through the **mᵉgillâh**, scripture illustrates the transmission of prophecy, the enduring and unchangeable nature of God's commands, and the necessity for God's servants to fully internalize the message they are called to deliver.
TRV