### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **madrêgâh**, represented by `{{H4095}}`, denotes a step or, by implication, a steep and inaccessible place. This word, derived from a root meaning to step, appears only **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Its rarity lends significant weight to each appearance, where it describes both a hidden place of refuge and a towering structure destined for collapse.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two uses of `{{H4095}}` present a sharp contrast. In Song of Solomon, it refers to the "secret places of the **stairs**" where the beloved is hidden away like a dove in the clefts of a rock [[Song of Solomon 2:14]]. This context suggests a place of safety, privacy, and intimacy. In Ezekiel's prophecy, however, it describes the "**steep places**" that will **fall** along with the mountains in a great cataclysmic shaking at God's presence, signifying the destruction of all that seems mighty and permanent [[Ezekiel 38:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{H4095}}` in its specific contexts:
* `{{H5553}}` **çelaʻ** (a craggy rock, literally or figuratively (a fortress)): This word for **rock** is directly associated with `{{H4095}}` to create the image of a secure, protected refuge in the natural landscape [[Song of Solomon 2:14]].
* `{{H5643}}` **çêther** (a cover... hiding place, privily, protection, secret(-ly, place)): Paired with "stairs," this term emphasizes that the location is a **secret** place, intended for private retreat and protection [[Song of Solomon 2:14]].
* `{{H2022}}` **har** (a mountain or range of hills): In Ezekiel, **mountains** are listed with "steep places" as examples of immense, formidable structures that will be overthrown during God's judgment [[Ezekiel 38:20]].
* `{{H5307}}` **nâphal** (to fall, in a great variety of applications): This verb is used to describe the fate of the "steep places," indicating that these seemingly unshakeable locations will **fall** and be brought to ruin [[Ezekiel 38:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H4095}}` is found in its contrasting applications.
* **Divine Refuge:** In its first use, the "stairs" are part of a secret hiding place for the beloved, symbolizing a place of intimate safety and protection provided for those cherished [[Song of Solomon 2:14]].
* **Divine Judgment:** In its second use, the "steep places" represent the imposing heights of the world—whether natural or man-made—that will be brought low in the face of God's overwhelming presence and power [[Ezekiel 38:20]].
* **The Unshakeable vs. The Shaken:** The word highlights a critical distinction: the security found in a hidden relationship versus the instability of even the most formidable earthly strongholds when confronted by divine authority.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4095}}` is a term with a narrow but potent scope. While used only twice, it effectively conveys two opposing ideas: a private, inaccessible place of loving refuge and a high, proud place destined for destruction. Through **madrêgâh**, scripture illustrates that what seems inaccessible can either be a shelter for the beloved or a symbol of pride that will inevitably fall.
TRV