### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mᵉzammᵉrâh**, represented by `{{H4212}}`, refers to **snuffers**, a type of tweezer used for temple service. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. The term is exclusively found within lists of sacred implements, emphasizing its role as a dedicated tool for worship within the house of the LORD.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H4212}}` is always presented as part of a larger collection of temple furnishings. During the construction of Solomon's temple, snuffers are listed among the items made of "pure gold" for the "most holy place" ([[1 Kings 7:50]], [[2 Chronicles 4:22]]). Conversely, the word also appears in inventories of items taken from the temple during the Babylonian conquest. In these instances, the snuffers are among the "vessels of brass" that were carried away, signifying the plundering of the holy place ([[2 Kings 25:14]], [[Jeremiah 52:18]]). One passage notes that snuffers were not to be made from the general collection of money brought for temple repairs, suggesting they were part of a distinct and sacred set of instruments [[2 Kings 12:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and function of these sacred objects:
* `{{H3627}}` **kᵉlîy** (vessel, instrument): This is a general term for any prepared apparatus or utensil. The snuffers were one specific type of vessel among many others used in the temple [[2 Kings 25:14]]. The word can also refer to things like weapons or jewels [[Isaiah 54:17]].
* `{{H2091}}` **zâhâb** (gold): This precious metal, which shimmers, was used for the most holy temple implements, including the snuffers intended for the inner house [[1 Kings 7:50]]. Gold is often mentioned in scripture as a symbol of value and purity [[Job 23:10]].
* `{{H5178}}` **nᵉchôsheth** (brass, copper): Snuffers are also listed among the temple vessels made of brass. This metal was used for many sacred items, including the serpent Moses made in the wilderness [[Numbers 21:9]] and parts of the altar.
* `{{H8334}}` **shârath** (to minister, serve): This root describes the service performed with these holy vessels. The snuffers and other implements were used by those who "ministered" in the temple, highlighting their function in active worship [[Jeremiah 52:18]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H4212}}` is derived entirely from its sacred context.
* **Holiness in Detail:** The specific mention of snuffers among the temple furnishings underscores the importance God places on every detail of worship. These were not mere tools but holy instruments dedicated to service, made of valuable materials like pure gold [[2 Chronicles 4:22]].
* **Aids to Worship:** As snuffers, their function was likely related to tending the lamps or incense altars, ensuring the light of the sanctuary and the aroma of worship could be maintained properly. They were part of a set of items used by priests who ministered `{{H8334}}` before the LORD.
* **Symbol of Judgment:** The listing of snuffers among the items plundered and carried away from Jerusalem serves as a potent symbol of national judgment. The removal of these sacred objects represented the cessation of temple service and the loss of God's manifest presence [[2 Kings 25:14]].
### Summary
In summary, **mᵉzammᵉrâh** `{{H4212}}` is a highly specific term for the **snuffers** used in the temple. Though mentioned infrequently, its appearances in scripture are significant. It is always listed as part of a set of consecrated vessels, either being crafted from precious metals for the glory of God's house or being carried away as spoils of war. The word illustrates how even a small, functional item becomes sanctified and important when dedicated to the service and worship of God.
TRV