### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **machăbath**, represented by `{{H4227}}`, refers to a **pan**, specifically one used for baking. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. The word's base definition connects it to the act of baking, and its use in scripture is primarily focused on either sacrificial offerings or symbolic prophetic acts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4227}}` is found almost exclusively within the Levitical laws for offerings. It is described as a vessel for preparing a specific type of **meat offering** (`{{H4503}}`), which was to be made of **fine flour** (`{{H5560}}`) and **oil** (`{{H8081}}`) ([[Leviticus 2:5]], [[Leviticus 6:21]]). These offerings, once cooked in the **pan**, were presented to the Lord. In a different context, the prophet Ezekiel uses an iron **pan** as a symbolic wall during a prophetic sign against the house of Israel [[Ezekiel 4:3]], illustrating its use as both a literal and metaphorical object.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context of the cooking and offering process:
* `{{H4802}}` **marchesheth** (fryingpan): This term for a stewpan or fryingpan is used alongside **machăbath** to specify different methods of preparing offerings, indicating the precise nature of the instructions given to the priests [[Leviticus 7:9]].
* `{{H8574}}` **tannûwr** (oven): This word for a furnace or oven is another cooking implement mentioned in the same context as the pan and fryingpan. It highlights that the method of preparation (baking, frying, etc.) was a significant detail in the sacrificial rite [[Leviticus 7:9]].
* `{{H4503}}` **minchâh** (meat offering): This is the sacrificial offering itself, typically a bloodless gift of grain. The **pan** was one of the approved vessels for preparing this offering before it was presented to God [[Leviticus 2:5]].
### Theological Significance
The functional significance of `{{H4227}}` is centered on its role in worship and prophecy.
* **Vessel for Sacred Offerings:** The **pan** was an implement designated for preparing a particular kind of grain offering. Its mention in Leviticus underscores the detailed and specific nature of the laws governing worship and the proper handling of sacred items [[Leviticus 6:21]].
* **Distinction in Preparation:** The law distinguishes between offerings made in an **oven** (`{{H8574}}`), a **fryingpan** (`{{H4802}}`), and a **pan** (`{{H4227}}`), with each yielding an offering that belonged to the officiating priest [[Leviticus 7:9]]. This points to an ordered system with clear procedural guidelines.
* **Instrument of Prophetic Symbolism:** In Ezekiel's ministry, an iron **pan** is transformed from a common cooking tool into a symbol of divine judgment. It represents the "wall of iron" set between God and Jerusalem, signifying an unbreakable siege and separation [[Ezekiel 4:3]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4227}}` **machăbath** is a precise term for a baking pan that carries both ritual and symbolic weight. While primarily a utilitarian object for preparing Levitical grain offerings, it also serves as a stark prophetic image of separation and judgment. This demonstrates how even a simple household item could be integrated into Israel's system of worship and used to communicate a divine message.
TRV