מְגִלָּה

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Aramaic word mᵉgillâh, represented by H4040, corresponds to its Hebrew counterpart and means a roll. This specific term is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible, where it refers to a rolled document or scroll.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

The single biblical use of H4040 occurs in the book of Ezra. In this passage, a search is conducted and a roll is found in the palace at Achmetha, which was located in the province of the Medes Ezra 6:2. This specific roll contained a written record, highlighting its function as an official document for preserving important information.

Related Words & Concepts

Several related Aramaic words found in the same passage help clarify the context and function of the roll:

• H7912 shᵉkach (to discover...; find): The action of "finding" the roll is what brings this historical record to light. The roll's discovery is the pivotal event in the verse Ezra 6:2.
• H1799 dikrôwn (a register; record): This word specifies the contents of the roll. The mᵉgillâh was not blank; it served as the physical medium for an official record Ezra 6:2. The term is also used for a "book of the records" elsewhere, reinforcing its connection to official archives Ezra 4:15.
• H3790 kᵉthab (to write(-ten)): This describes the state of the record on the roll. The information was formally written, indicating a deliberate act of documentation Ezra 6:2.

Theological Significance

The significance of H4040 is derived entirely from its singular, practical context rather than from broad theological use.

• A Medium for Official Records: The appearance of H4040 situates it as a physical carrier of a record H1799. It is not just any scroll, but one containing an official memorandum found in a royal archive.
• Physical Basis of Authority: The discovery of what was written H3790 on this roll was critical. The physical document provided the historical and legal basis for subsequent actions in the narrative of Ezra Ezra 6:2.
• Context of Royal Administration: The roll was located in the palace H1001 within a governmental province H4083, underscoring its role within the administrative functions of the Persian empire as described in scripture.

Summary

In summary, H4040 mᵉgillâh is a highly specific Aramaic term for a roll. While it appears only once, its context in Ezra 6:2 is very clear, defining it as an official document found within a state archive. It serves as the physical vessel for a crucial written record, illustrating the importance of preserved documents for law and history in the biblical narrative.