### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **madhêbâh**, represented by `{{H4062}}`, is a rare term whose definition suggests concepts of goldmaking, exactness, or most commonly, a **golden city**. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible, marking it as a highly specific and pointed designation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{H4062}}` is in [[Isaiah 14:4]], within a prophetic taunt against a great empire. The verse commands the people to "take up this proverb against the king of Babylon, and say, How hath the oppressor ceased! the **golden city** ceased!" In this context, the term is used as a derisive title for Babylon, a city-state renowned for its immense wealth and power, highlighting the shocking nature of its prophesied downfall. The term directly links the city's identity to its material splendor and its tyrannical ruler.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the surrounding verse provide the full context for `{{H4062}}`:
* `{{H4912}}` **mâshâl** (proverb): This word, meaning a parable or pithy maxim, establishes the literary form of the taunt against Babylon. It is a form of speech used to convey a potent truth, often about the rise and fall of the proud [[Isaiah 14:4]].
* `{{H5065}}` **nâgas** (oppressor): This term identifies the character of the king of Babylon. It means to drive, harass, or tyrannize. The fall of the "golden city" is inextricably linked to the end of its ruler, the **oppressor** [[Isaiah 14:4]], whose cruelty defined the empire.
* `{{H894}}` **Bâbel** (Babylon): This proper name identifies the specific target of the proverb. Throughout scripture, **Babylon** represents a center of worldly power and rebellion against God, making its fall a significant event [[Isaiah 14:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4062}}` is concentrated in its singular, powerful use. It underscores several key themes of divine judgment:
* **Judgment on Materialism and Pride:** By labeling Babylon the "golden city" in a taunt celebrating its destruction, the passage critiques reliance on wealth and earthly glory. The city's greatest perceived asset becomes a mark of its arrogance and the reason for its judgment.
* **The Transience of Human Empires:** The proverb's triumphant question, "How hath the golden city ceased!" emphasizes that no human institution, no matter how rich or powerful, is eternal. God's authority ultimately supersedes that of any earthly king or empire [[Isaiah 14:4]].
* **God's Sovereignty Over Oppressors:** The term is used in the context of celebrating the end of an **oppressor** `{{H5065}}`. This demonstrates God's role as a deliverer of His people and a righteous judge who brings an end to tyranny.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4062}}` is more than a simple descriptor. As the "golden city," it serves as a potent symbol for Babylon's opulent and oppressive regime. Its lone appearance in [[Isaiah 14:4]] acts as a powerful and enduring theological statement that the glories of proud, tyrannical human kingdoms are fleeting and will ultimately be brought to nothing by the judgment of God.
TRV