### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mᵉchûwgâh**, represented by `{{H4230}}`, refers to **an instrument for marking a circle, i.e. compasses; compass**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, highlighting its specific and technical nature. The term describes a tool used by a craftsman for precision in design and fabrication.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H4230}}` is in [[Isaiah 44:13]], within a detailed critique of idolatry. The passage describes a **carpenter** `{{H2796}}` at work, using a series of tools to fashion an idol from **wood** `{{H6086}}`. The **compass** is one of the instruments used to precisely **marketh it out** `{{H8388}}`, ensuring the idol is made "after the **figure** `{{H8403}}` of a **man** `{{H376}}`, according to the **beauty** `{{H8597}}` of a **man** `{{H120}}`; that it may **remain** `{{H3427}}` in the **house** `{{H1004}}`."
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words from its single context in [[Isaiah 44:13]] illuminate the use of `{{H4230}}`:
* `{{H2796}}` **chârâsh** (a fabricator or any material; artificer, ([phrase]) carpenter, craftsman): This refers to the craftsman who wields the **compass**. The term is used elsewhere to describe those who make graven images, which are an abomination to the LORD [[Deuteronomy 27:15]].
* `{{H8388}}` **tâʼar** (to delineate; reflex. to extend; be drawn, mark out): This verb describes the specific action performed with the **compass**. The word is used twice in [[Isaiah 44:13]], emphasizing the meticulous process of outlining the idol's form before it is finished.
* `{{H8403}}` **tabnîyth** (structure; by implication, a model, resemblance; figure, form, likeness, pattern, similitude): This is the result of the craftsman's work. The **compass** is essential for creating the idol according to a specific **pattern** or **figure**—in this case, the **likeness** of a man [[Isaiah 44:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4230}}` derives entirely from its context in condemning idolatry.
* **The Folly of Human Effort:** The use of a precision instrument like a **compass** highlights the futility and foolishness of idolatry. The prophet details the skill a **carpenter** `{{H2796}}` puts into his work, only to produce an object from **wood** `{{H6086}}` that is the product of human hands [[Isaiah 44:13]].
* **Demystifying Idols:** By describing the mundane tools used to create an idol—a **rule** `{{H6957}}`, a **line** `{{H8279}}`, **planes** `{{H4741}}`, and a **compass** `{{H4230}}`—the text strips the idol of any divine power. It is revealed to be nothing more than the product of human craftsmanship.
* **Misapplication of Skill:** The passage illustrates how human skill is perverted. The craftsman **maketh** `{{H6213}}` the idol "according to the **beauty** `{{H8597}}` of a **man** `{{H120}}`," using his abilities to create a man-made god in man's image, a direct inversion of God creating **man** `{{H120}}` in His own image [[Genesis 1:26]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4230}}` **mᵉchûwgâh** is a highly specific term for a craftsman's **compass**. Its single biblical appearance is not incidental but serves a powerful rhetorical purpose in Isaiah's polemic against idolatry. The mention of this and other tools demonstrates that an idol, despite being crafted with great precision, is merely the work of human hands, a piece of wood fashioned to **remain** `{{H3427}}` in a **house** `{{H1004}}` [[Isaiah 44:13]]. It stands as a testament to the folly of substituting the Creator with the created.
TRV