### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mâchôwl**, represented by `{{H4234}}`, refers to a **(round) dance**. It appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible, typically symbolizing an exuberant expression of joy and celebration, often in a religious context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H4234}}` frequently marks a transition from sorrow to gladness. It is an outward sign of God's restorative work, as when He turns mourning into **dancing** and replaces sackcloth with gladness [[Psalms 30:11]]. This theme is prominent in prophecy, where the restoration of Israel is described as the virgin of Israel once again going forth in the **dances** of them that make merry [[Jeremiah 31:4]]. Conversely, the cessation of dance signifies profound national tragedy, as lamented when "our **dance** is turned into mourning" [[Lamentations 5:15]]. The act is also explicitly linked with worship, a way to praise God's name with instruments like the timbrel and harp ([[Psalms 149:3]], [[Psalms 150:4]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help frame the meaning of **mâchôwl**:
* `{{H2015}}` **hâphak** (to turn about or over): This verb is central to the context of `{{H4234}}`, describing the divine act of turning mourning into **dancing** [[Psalms 30:11]] or, conversely, turning the **dance** into mourning [[Lamentations 5:15]].
* `{{H60}}` **'êbel** (lamentation; mourning): As the emotional antithesis of the joy found in dance, **mourning** is what is often replaced by **dancing** as a sign of God's comfort and deliverance [[Jeremiah 31:13]].
* `{{H8596}}` **tôph** (a tambourine; tabret, timbrel): This musical instrument is frequently mentioned alongside the dance, showing that **mâchôwl** was part of a vibrant, musical celebration. The Psalms call for praise with the **timbrel** and dance [[Psalms 150:4]], and Israel is promised to be adorned with **tabrets** before going forth in dances [[Jeremiah 31:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H4234}}` is centered on themes of joy and restoration.
* **Sign of Divine Restoration:** The act of **dancing** is a powerful symbol of God's intervention to reverse sorrow. It is a physical manifestation of joy that comes directly from God turning a dire situation into one of gladness [[Psalms 30:11]].
* **Expression of Worship:** **Dance** is presented as a valid and encouraged form of worship. It is listed among other acts of devotion like singing praises and playing musical instruments to honor God's name ([[Psalms 149:3]], [[Psalms 150:4]]).
* **Promise of Communal Celebration:** The restoration of the **dance** is a promise of renewed community life, where all generations—virgins, young men, and old—rejoice together [[Jeremiah 31:13]]. It is a feature of a people rebuilt and adorned by God [[Jeremiah 31:4]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4234}}` is far more than a physical activity. It serves in Scripture as a potent symbol of joy restored by divine power, a dynamic form of worship, and a mark of a thriving, celebratory community. It stands in stark contrast to mourning, representing the tangible result of God's comfort and deliverance in the lives of His people.
TRV