### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mûwtsâqâh**, represented by `{{H4166}}`, refers to something that is poured out and formed. Derived from the root word for "to pour" or "cast metal" `{{H3332}}`, its base definition is a **casting**, **tube**, or **pipe**. This specific term is quite rare, appearing only **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word's two appearances illustrate its distinct applications. In Zechariah's prophetic vision, it is used to describe the **pipes** that supply oil to the lamps on a golden candlestick [[Zechariah 4:2]]. In a historical context, it describes the moment of creation for the ornate oxen that decorated the molten sea for Solomon's temple, translated as "when it was **cast**" [[2 Chronicles 4:3]]. In both cases, the word is associated with intricately crafted items intended for sacred purposes.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller understanding of the contexts in which `{{H4166}}` is found:
* `{{H3332}}` **yâtsaq** (to pour out, cast): This is the primitive root from which **mûwtsâqâh** is derived. It signifies the action of pouring or casting metal. This direct link is seen when the two words are used together to describe the creation of the temple oxen, which "were **cast** `{{H3332}}`, when it was **cast** `{{H4166}}`" [[2 Chronicles 4:3]].
* `{{H4501}}` **mᵉnôwrâh** (candlestick): This is the central object in Zechariah's vision. The "pipes" `{{H4166}}` are a critical component of the **candlestick**, serving to channel fuel to its seven lamps [[Zechariah 4:2]].
* `{{H1241}}` **bâqâr** (oxen): This word identifies the figures being created in the Chronicles passage. The "similitude of **oxen**" was formed "when it was **cast**" `{{H4166}}`, demonstrating the term's connection to creating specific forms for temple furnishings [[2 Chronicles 4:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H4166}}` is tied to its role in divine craftsmanship and provision.
* **Conduits of Divine Provision:** In the vision of the candlestick, the "pipes" `{{H4166}}` are the channels that allow the oil to fuel the lamps, providing continuous light. This imagery points to the means by which God's spirit and power are supplied to his people [[Zechariah 4:2]].
* **Sacred Craftsmanship:** The use of the term in relation to the temple's molten sea highlights the sanctity of objects created for worship. The phrase "when it was cast" `{{H4166}}` points to the foundational act of forming items dedicated for service in the house of God [[2 Chronicles 4:3]].
* **Formation for a Holy Purpose:** The word encapsulates both the process of creation (casting) and the resulting object's function (pipe). It connects the origin of a sacred item with its ultimate purpose in God's service, whether in visionary symbolism or in the physical temple.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H4166}}` is a seldom-used word, its meaning is precise and significant. It denotes an object formed by being poured or cast, such as a pipe or a metal figure. Its biblical appearances link it directly to the construction and function of sacred items, representing both the channels of divine provision in a prophetic vision and the act of creating beautiful, holy objects for worship in God's temple.
TRV