### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mûwçâb**, represented by `{{H4141}}`, is defined as **a turn, i.e. circuit (of a building); winding about**. It is derived from the root word `{{H5437}}` **çâbab**, which means "to revolve". Appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, its meaning is highly specific to its architectural context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{H4141}}` is found in Ezekiel's vision of a future temple. The verse describes a structural feature of the building: "for the **winding about** of the house went still upward round about the house: therefore the breadth of the house was still upward, and so increased from the lowest chamber to the highest by the midst" [[Ezekiel 41:7]]. Here, **mûwçâb** refers to a spiral or circuitous passage that allows for the building's side chambers to enlarge as they ascend, highlighting a design of increasing breadth and elevation.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the architectural and directional context of **mûwçâb**:
* `{{H5437}}` **çâbab** (a primitive root; to revolve, surround, or border): This is the root from which **mûwçâb** is derived. It establishes the core idea of revolving or circling, as seen when the Israelites were instructed to **compass** the city of Jericho [[Joshua 6:4]].
* `{{H1004}}` **bayith** (a house): The **mûwçâb** is an architectural element of the **house** of God in its only appearance [[Ezekiel 41:7]]. The significance of building a **house** for the Lord is a recurring theme in scripture [[Psalms 127:1]].
* `{{H5927}}` **ʻâlâh** (a primitive root; to ascend): This word describes the vertical direction of the "winding about." It signifies movement to a higher level, whether physically going up to the house of the Lord [[2 Kings 20:5]] or spiritually when believers **mount up** with wings as eagles [[Isaiah 40:31]].
* `{{H5439}}` **çâbîyb** ((as adverb, with or without preposition) around): This term, also from the same root as **mûwçâb**, is used in the same verse to describe the path of the circuit, emphasizing that it went **round about** the house [[Ezekiel 41:7]]. It often denotes a surrounding presence or protection [[2 Kings 6:17]].
### Theological Significance
While strictly an architectural term, the context of `{{H4141}}` lends itself to broader concepts within scripture:
* **Progressive Ascent:** The "winding about" facilitates an increase from the **lowest** `{{H8481}}` chamber to the **highest** `{{H5945}}` [[Ezekiel 41:7]]. This physical design reflects a pattern of upward progression and elevation toward a higher state or place.
* **Divine Architecture:** The term is part of a detailed, divine blueprint for God's **house** `{{H1004}}`. This underscores the idea that God's plans are intricate and purposeful, extending even to the specific structural elements of His dwelling place.
* **Expanding Access:** The design of the **mûwçâb** resulted in an enlarging `{{H7337}}` and an increase in the **breadth** `{{H7341}}` of the structure as it went upward [[Ezekiel 41:7]]. This can be seen as a picture of spiritual growth, where nearness to God leads to an enlarged heart and greater capacity [[Psalms 119:32]].
### Summary
In summary, **mûwçâb** `{{H4141}}` is a rare and specific term for a "winding about" or "circuit" in a building. Its sole appearance in the Bible places it within the visionary temple of Ezekiel, where it describes a structure facilitating upward and outward expansion. Though its primary meaning is architectural, its context connects it to the significant biblical themes of spiritual ascent, divine design, and the expanding nature of God's kingdom and presence.
TRV