### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mᵉchillâh**, represented by `{{H4247}}`, refers to a **cave** or **cavern (as if excavated)**. It appears only **1 time** in a single verse in the entire Bible. This specific usage defines its meaning within the context of a place of hiding in response to an overwhelming event.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H4247}}` is in [[Isaiah 2:19]], which describes a future moment of divine judgment. In this passage, people "shall go into the holes of the rocks, and into the **caves** of the earth." This action is not for ordinary shelter but is a direct response to the "fear of the LORD" [[Isaiah 2:19]]. They seek refuge in these excavated caverns when God "ariseth to shake terribly the earth" `{{H776}}`, fleeing from the "glory of his majesty" `{{H1347}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words used alongside `{{H4247}}` in its only appearance help clarify its context:
* `{{H4631}}` **mᵉʻârâh** (a cavern (as dark); cave, den, hole): Used in parallel with **mᵉchillâh**, this word describes the "holes of the rocks" where people will flee, reinforcing the imagery of seeking refuge underground [[Isaiah 2:19]].
* `{{H6697}}` **tsûwr** (a cliff... a rock or boulder; figuratively, a refuge): This is the material into which the holes are found, the "rocks." While it can figuratively refer to God as a refuge, here it denotes the literal, physical shelter people seek [[Isaiah 2:19]].
* `{{H6343}}` **pachad** (a (sudden) alarm... dread(-ful), fear, terror): This word identifies the motivation for seeking the **caves**, specifying the "fear" or "terror" of the LORD `{{H3068}}` as the cause of the flight [[Isaiah 2:19]].
* `{{H6206}}` **ʻârats** (to awe or (intransitive) to dread; hence, to harass): This verb describes the action God takes that provokes this fear, as He rises "to shake terribly" the earth, compelling people to hide [[Isaiah 2:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4247}}` is entirely derived from its singular, powerful context in Isaiah.
* **Refuge from Divine Presence:** The **cave** serves as a hiding place from the manifest power and "majesty" `{{H1347}}` of the LORD `{{H3068}}`. It represents a desperate attempt by humanity to escape the presence of God during a time of judgment [[Isaiah 2:19]].
* **Humanity's Terror:** The flight into **caves** is a physical illustration of the "fear" `{{H6343}}` that will seize people when God "ariseth" `{{H6965}}` to act. It is a place of terror, not of peaceful communion or safety in God.
* **The Futility of Earthly Shelter:** By retreating into the "caves of the earth" `{{H6083}}`, mankind seeks protection within the very creation that is being shaken by its Creator. This highlights the inadequacy of any physical refuge in the face of divine judgment [[Isaiah 2:19]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4247}}` is a highly specific term whose meaning is defined by its sole appearance in Scripture. It is not a general term for a cave but specifically denotes a cavern as a place of frightened retreat from God's terrifying majesty. It powerfully illustrates the theme of divine judgment and humanity's futile attempt to hide from the inescapable presence of the LORD.
TRV