### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H4052}}` (מִגְרָעָה, *migrâʻâh*) is derived from the verbal root `{{H1639}}` (גָּרַע, *gâraʻ*), which signifies "to diminish, lessen, abate, take away, or withdraw." Consequently, migrâʻâh denotes a structural feature characterized by a reduction or setting back, specifically an "offset," "ledge," or "narrowed rest." In architectural contexts, it refers to a rebate or recess built into a wall, where the wall's thickness or projection is intentionally reduced at a certain level. This created a supporting surface or a space for an adjoining structure without penetrating the main wall. Its semantic range is thus tightly bound to the concept of reduction or recession in a physical, structural sense, creating a distinct supporting or connecting element.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{H4052}}` appears exclusively twice in the Hebrew Bible, both times within the detailed description of Solomon's Temple in 1 Kings:
* **[[1 Kings 6:6]]**: "The lowest story was five cubits wide, the middle six cubits wide, and the third seven cubits wide; for around the outside of the temple he made offsets (מִגְרָעוֹת) in the wall in order that the supporting beams should not be inserted into the walls of the temple."
* **[[1 Kings 6:10]]**: "He also built the side chambers against the whole temple, five cubits high; and they were attached to the temple with timbers by means of offsets (מִגְרָעוֹת)."
These passages reveal the precise architectural function of the migrâʻâh. They were structural ledges or rebates built into the exterior walls of the main temple building. Their primary purpose was twofold:
1. To support the beams of the three stories of side chambers that surrounded the Temple.
2. Crucially, to achieve this support *without* piercing or inserting the beams into the sacred walls of the Temple proper. The varying widths of the stories (5, 6, and 7 cubits) indicate a stepped design, where each successive level was set back, creating these migrâʻâh ledges. This meticulous design ensured that the structural integrity and sacred distinctiveness of the inner sanctuary walls remained uncompromised. The use of the plural form (מִגְרָעוֹת) emphasizes the numerous such offsets incorporated into the complex design.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct linguistic relationship is with the verbal root `{{H1639}}` (גָּרַע, *gâraʻ*), from which `{{H4052}}` is derived. This root's meaning of "to diminish" or "to take away" perfectly describes the physical action of creating a ledge by reducing the wall's thickness. Conceptually, migrâʻâh is deeply embedded within the vocabulary of sacred architecture, particularly as it pertains to the Temple. It resonates with terms describing other structural elements, such as `{{H3402}}` (יָצִיעַ, *yatsiaʻ*, "side chamber") and `{{H7139}}` (קִיר, *qir*, "wall"), emphasizing the detailed and precise nature of the Temple's construction. It also indirectly connects to broader themes of divine design and human craftsmanship in service of the holy.
### Theological Significance
While `{{H4052}}` is a technical architectural term, its specific application within the Temple narrative imbues it with profound theological significance. The meticulous detail concerning the migrâʻâh underscores the divine blueprint and the reverent execution of God's dwelling place. The very purpose of these offsets—to support the side chambers without penetrating the main Temple walls—speaks volumes:
* **Sanctity and Separation:** It highlights the absolute sanctity and inviolability of the Temple's inner walls, which demarcated the sacred space where God's presence resided. No human structural necessity was permitted to "intrude" upon or compromise this holy boundary.
* **Divine Precision:** The inclusion of such intricate details points to God's meticulousness and the perfect order required for His worship. Every element, no matter how seemingly minor, was part of a divinely ordained design.
* **Wisdom in Construction:** It reflects the wisdom, perhaps divinely inspired, of the builders in devising a solution that honored the sacredness of the structure while ensuring its practical stability. This echoes the broader biblical theme of God providing wisdom for tasks that serve His purposes.
* **Integrity of God's Dwelling:** The migrâʻâh ensures the structural integrity and distinctiveness of the sacred space, symbolizing that God's presence is not to be casually integrated or compromised by human necessity but stands unique and set apart.
### Summary
The Hebrew word `{{H4052}}` (מִגְרָעָה, *migrâʻâh*) refers to an architectural "offset" or "ledge," derived from the root meaning "to diminish." Its sole occurrences in the Bible are in 1 Kings 6, describing a key structural feature of Solomon's Temple. These offsets were ingeniously designed to support the side chambers without penetrating the sacred walls of the main Temple building, thus preserving its integrity and sanctity. Theologically, the migrâʻâh underscores the divine precision, meticulous planning, and profound reverence for the sacred space of God's dwelling, emphasizing the inviolability and unique distinctiveness of His presence.
TRV