### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mizrâq**, represented by `{{H4219}}`, is a term for a **bowl** or **bason**. Its base definition suggests a vessel used for sprinkling. It appears 32 times across 32 unique verses in the Bible, primarily in contexts related to sacred worship and temple implements.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4219}}` is used to identify specific vessels for the Tabernacle and Temple. These **basons** are listed among the implements for the altar, made of materials like brass [[Exodus 27:3]] and gold [[2 Chronicles 4:8]]. During the dedication of the altar, the princes of Israel presented offerings that included "one silver **bowl** of seventy shekels" filled with fine flour and oil [[Numbers 7:13]]. The term is also used prophetically, both to condemn excess, as with those who "drink wine in **bowls**" [[Amos 6:6]], and to illustrate future holiness, when God's people "shall be filled like **bowls**" [[Zechariah 9:15]] and even common pots will become as sacred as the **bowls** before the altar [[Zechariah 14:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the various vessels and implements used in worship:
* `{{H7086}}` **qᵉʻârâh** (charger, dish): This vessel is frequently mentioned alongside `{{H4219}}` in lists of offerings, such as the "twelve **chargers** of silver, twelve silver **bowls**" given for the dedication of the altar [[Numbers 7:84]].
* `{{H5518}}` **çîyr** (pot, caldron): Often listed with **basons** as part of the temple's equipment [[Jeremiah 52:18]], this common **pot** is prophetically elevated to the status of the holy **bowls** in the LORD's house [[Zechariah 14:20]].
* `{{H3257}}` **yâʻ** (shovel): This term refers to a **shovel** and is consistently included in inventories of altar tools alongside **basons** and fleshhooks, first in the Tabernacle's construction and later in Solomon's Temple ([[Exodus 38:3]], [[1 Kings 7:40]]).
* `{{H4207}}` **mazlêg** (fleshhook): A **fleshhook** used for sacrifices, this implement is part of the set of brass vessels made for the altar, which also included the **basons** [[Exodus 27:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4219}}` is tied to its use in sacred ceremony and prophecy.
* **Sanctity of Worship:** The specific mention of **basons** made from valuable materials like gold, silver, and brass highlights the holiness and order required for the Tabernacle and Temple service ([[Exodus 27:3]], [[2 Chronicles 4:8]]). Their removal from the temple signifies judgment [[2 Kings 25:15]].
* **Consecrated Offerings:** The **bowls** were used to present dedicated gifts to God. The offerings from the princes of Israel, detailed in Numbers, underscore the importance of giving valuable and specific offerings as an act of worship [[Numbers 7:85]].
* **Symbol of Restoration:** In prophecy, the **bowl** becomes a symbol of a renewed and sanctified people. Zechariah envisions a time when the people of God will be filled with joy like **bowls** at the altar and even everyday items will possess the sanctity of these sacred vessels ([[Zechariah 9:15]], [[Zechariah 14:20]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4219}}` is far more than a simple container. It is a key object in the context of Israel's worship, functioning as a consecrated vessel for offerings at the altar. Its consistent appearance in lists of temple furniture establishes its role in sacred ritual. Furthermore, its use in prophecy elevates it to a symbol of divine judgment, decadent excess, and the ultimate, widespread holiness of God's people in the age of restoration.
TRV