a primitive root; properly, to stretch; by implication, to measure (as if by stretching a line); figuratively, to be extended; measure, mete, stretch self.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mâdad**, represented by `{{H4058}}`, is a primitive root that properly means **to stretch**. It appears 51 times across 49 unique verses. By implication, its meaning extends to the act of measuring, as if by stretching a line, and figuratively, to the concept of being extended.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H4058}}` is applied in both literal and figurative contexts. A significant portion of its occurrences is in the book of Ezekiel, where it is used repeatedly to describe the precise measuring of the visionary temple, its gates, courts, and walls [[Ezekiel 40:5]]. It is used to mete out land, as when God promises to divide Shechem and "mete out the valley of Succoth" [[Psalms 60:6]]. Figuratively, the word illustrates the immeasurable nature of God's creation and promises, such as the host of heaven or the sand of the sea which "cannot be measured" [[Jeremiah 33:22]]. It can also denote judgment, as when David "measured them with a line" to determine who would live and who would die [[2 Samuel 8:2]], or a physical action, as when Elijah "stretched himself" upon the child [[1 Kings 17:21]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the scope of measurement and dimension:
* `{{H4060}}` **middâh** (measure): As the noun form, this word refers to the result of measuring, such as a specific dimension, a portion, or a standard. In Ezekiel's vision, a man holds a "measuring `{{H4060}}` reed" to "measure `{{H4058}}`" the temple building [[Ezekiel 40:5]].
* `{{H2256}}` **chebel** (a rope, measuring line): This word refers to the tool used for measuring, often a rope or cord. It is used in the context of apportioning land or, as in the case of the Moabites, for carrying out judgment [[2 Samuel 8:2]].
* `{{H6957}}` **qav** (line): Another word for a measuring cord, it is used when the man in Ezekiel's vision "measured `{{H4058}}` a thousand cubits" with a "line `{{H6957}}`" in his hand [[Ezekiel 47:3]].
* `{{H8505}}` **tâkan** (to balance, mete, ponder): This verb is often used alongside `{{H4058}}` to describe God's comprehensive assessment of creation, such as when He "measured `{{H4058}}` the waters" and "meted out `{{H8505}}` heaven with the span" [[Isaiah 40:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4058}}` is significant, highlighting key aspects of God's character and authority.
* **Divine Omnipotence:** The ability to measure the heavens, waters, and mountains demonstrates God's infinite power over a creation that is beyond human comprehension [[Isaiah 40:12]].
* **Covenant Faithfulness:** God's promise to Israel is that their descendants will be a multitude that "cannot be measured," linking the concept to the boundless nature of His covenant blessing [[Hosea 1:10]].
* **Sovereign Judgment:** The act of measuring is used to signify divine judgment and justice, whether it is apportioning land to His people [[Psalms 108:7]] or measuring out the consequences for iniquity [[Isaiah 65:7]].
* **Sacred Order:** The meticulous measuring of the temple in Ezekiel's vision establishes the principles of holiness, separation, and divine order that are central to worship and God's presence among His people [[Ezekiel 43:10]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4058}}` moves beyond the simple act of determining physical dimensions. It serves as a powerful biblical illustration of God's sovereignty over all creation, His role as the ultimate judge, and the infinite scale of His promises. From the literal stretching of a measuring line to define a holy space to the figurative inability to measure God's faithfulness, **mâdad** reveals a God who is both precise in His order and limitless in His power.
TRV