from זָרַק; a bowl (as if for sprinkling); bason, bowl.
Transliteration:mizrâq
Pronunciation:miz-rawk'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun מִזְרָק (mizrâq, `{{H4219}}`) is derived from the verb זָרַק (zâraq, `{{H2236}}`), which means "to sprinkle," "to scatter," or "to toss." This etymological connection is fundamental to understanding the primary function and semantic range of *mizrâq*. It denotes a vessel, specifically a bowl or basin, whose design or intended use involves the act of sprinkling or holding liquids for ritual application. While the base definition is simply "bowl" or "bason," the root verb imbues it with a specialized meaning: a bowl *for sprinkling* or for containing substances (like blood, oil, or offerings) that would be sprinkled or poured out in a sacred context. Its semantic range is thus confined almost exclusively to cultic or ritual vessels within the Tabernacle and Temple.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term מִזְרָק (mizrâq, `{{H4219}}`) appears 38 times in the Old Testament, predominantly in contexts related to the Tabernacle and Temple.
In the book of Exodus, *mizrâq* is first mentioned in the context of the Tabernacle's furnishings. For instance, [[Exodus 27:3]] and [[Exodus 38:3]] refer to the "basins" (מִזְרָק) made of bronze for the altar, indicating their use in handling the blood and other parts of the sacrificial animals. These were essential implements for the sacrificial cult.
The book of Numbers provides extensive detail regarding the use of *mizrâq* during the dedication of the Tabernacle. In [[Numbers 7]], each tribal leader brings an identical offering, which includes a "silver basin" (קְעָרָה כֶסֶף) weighing seventy shekels, full of fine flour mixed with oil for a grain offering, and a "gold dish" (כַּף זָהָב) weighing ten shekels, full of incense. Importantly, each leader also presents a "silver bowl" (מִזְרָק כֶּסֶף) weighing seventy shekels, full of fine flour mixed with oil, and a "gold dish" (כַּף זָהָב) weighing ten shekels, full of incense. The repetition of "silver bowl" (מִזְרָק כֶּסֶף) for each of the twelve tribes (e.g., [[Numbers 7:13]], [[Numbers 7:19]], [[Numbers 7:25]], etc.) underscores their significance as vessels for sacred offerings, specifically grain offerings, which were often accompanied by libations or anointing.
In the accounts of Solomon's Temple, *mizrâq* is consistently listed among the sacred vessels. [[1 Kings 7:50]] specifies "bowls of pure gold" (מִזְרְקֵי זָהָב סָגוּר), highlighting their precious material and intrinsic value within the grand structure. Similarly, [[2 Chronicles 4:8]] notes the creation of "one hundred gold bowls" (מִזְרְקֵי זָהָב מֵאָה) for the Temple, and [[2 Chronicles 4:11]] and [[2 Chronicles 4:12]] mention the "basins" (מִזְרָק) as part of the extensive bronze and gold furnishings crafted for the Temple service.
After the Babylonian exile, the return of the Temple vessels to Jerusalem is a significant event. [[Ezra 1:9]] and [[Ezra 1:10]] list the "gold bowls" (מִזְרְקֵי זָהָב) and "silver bowls" (מִזְרְקֵי כֶסֶף) among the items restored by Cyrus, emphasizing their enduring sacredness and importance for the resumption of Temple worship.
Finally, in a prophetic vision, [[Zechariah 9:15]] uses *mizrâq* metaphorically: "their blood shall be poured out like dust, and their life like the mire of the streets." This imagery, while not directly referring to a physical vessel, draws upon the familiar function of the *mizrâq* in collecting blood, thereby intensifying the picture of widespread slaughter and judgment.
Across all contexts, the *mizrâq* is invariably associated with the Tabernacle or Temple, made of precious metals (bronze, silver, gold), and used for ritual purposes, particularly involving blood, grain offerings, or anointing oil.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct linguistic relation to מִזְרָק (mizrâq, `{{H4219}}`) is its root verb, זָרַק (zâraq, `{{H2236}}`), "to sprinkle." This connection highlights the primary function of the *mizrâq* as a receptacle for substances intended for sprinkling, particularly the blood of sacrifices.
Other Hebrew words for vessels or bowls, though not directly related etymologically, share a semantic field and provide contrast:
* כִּיּוֹר (kîyyôr, `{{H3595}}`): A laver or basin, often larger and used for washing (e.g., [[Exodus 30:18]]). While also a basin, its primary function differs from the *mizrâq*'s ritual sprinkling/offering role.
* סֵפֶל (sēpel, `{{H5592}}`): A general term for a bowl, often a large one, not necessarily with cultic connotations (e.g., [[Judges 5:25]]).
* קָעָרָה (qāʿārāh, `{{H7086}}`): A dish or bowl, often for food, though it appears alongside *mizrâq* in the offerings of Numbers 7, suggesting it could also hold sacred offerings.
* מְנַקִּית (mənaqqît, `{{H4455}}`): A bowl or cup, used for libations or drinking (e.g., [[Jeremiah 52:19]]).
The concepts inherently linked with *mizrâq* include:
* **Sacrifice and Atonement:** As a vessel for blood, it is central to the sacrificial system, which facilitated atonement for sin.
* **Purity and Sanctification:** The rituals performed with the *mizrâq* were designed to maintain the purity of the sanctuary and the people.
* **Worship and Offering:** The bowls held the offerings presented to God, symbolizing the people's devotion and obedience.
* **Divine Presence:** The *mizrâq* was an instrument used in the very presence of God, within the holy Tabernacle and Temple.
### Theological Significance
The מִזְרָק (mizrâq, `{{H4219}}`) carries profound theological significance, primarily due to its integral role in the cultic worship of ancient Israel.
1. **Symbol of Holiness and Separation:** The *mizrâq* was exclusively associated with the Tabernacle and Temple, the dwelling places of God's presence. Its sacred function and precious materials (gold, silver, bronze) underscored the holiness of the divine realm and the strict separation required for approaching a holy God. It was not a common utensil but an instrument set apart for sacred service.
2. **Facilitator of Atonement:** As a vessel for collecting and sprinkling blood, the *mizrâq* was directly involved in the process of atonement. The "life is in the blood" ([[Leviticus 17:11]]) principle meant that the blood, collected in these basins, was the means by which sin was covered and reconciliation with God was achieved. The *mizrâq* thus points to the essential nature of sacrifice in addressing human sinfulness and God's provision for forgiveness.
3. **Instrument of Obedience and Worship:** The meticulous instructions for the construction and use of the *mizrâq* (and other Temple vessels) highlight the importance of precise obedience in worship. These bowls were not optional; they were divinely commanded instruments for performing the prescribed rituals, enabling Israel to draw near to God in the manner He ordained. Their use in presenting grain offerings and incense also emphasizes the comprehensive nature of Israel's worship, encompassing both expiation and adoration.
4. **Reflector of Divine Glory and Worth:** The fact that *mizrâq* were often made of gold and silver speaks to the immense value placed on the worship of Yahweh. The preciousness of the vessels reflected the glory of the God they served and the immense worthiness of the offerings presented to Him. This material splendor symbolized the spiritual magnificence of God's presence among His people.
5. **Continuity of Covenant:** The return of the *mizrâq* and other Temple vessels from Babylonian exile (Ezra 1) is a powerful theological statement. It signifies God's faithfulness to His covenant people, His desire for the restoration of worship, and the enduring nature of the sacred rituals that defined Israel's relationship with Him, even through periods of judgment and displacement.
### Summary
The Hebrew word מִזְרָק (mizrâq, `{{H4219}}`) refers to a ritual bowl or basin, deriving its meaning from the verb "to sprinkle" (זָרַק, `{{H2236}}`). Its occurrences in the Hebrew Bible are consistently linked to the Tabernacle and Temple, where it served as an indispensable vessel for sacred rites. Contextual analysis reveals its primary use in handling the blood of sacrifices, collecting grain offerings, and containing anointing oil or incense. Often crafted from precious metals like bronze, silver, or gold, the *mizrâq* was not merely a container but an instrument of profound theological significance. It underscored the holiness of God's presence, facilitated the atonement process through sacrifice, served as a tangible tool for obedient worship, and reflected the immense glory and worthiness of Yahweh. The enduring presence and restoration of the *mizrâq* throughout Israel's history further emphasize the continuity of God's covenant and His desire for His people's worship. As a sacred implement, the *mizrâq* stands as a silent testament to the intricate and reverent worship system ordained by God, pointing towards the ultimate provision for atonement and access to the Divine.
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