### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **machmâd**, represented by `{{H4261}}`, refers to something **delightful** or an object of affection and desire. It appears **13 times** in **13 unique verses**, often translated as **pleasant thing**, **desire**, **lovely**, or **beloved**. The term signifies that which is highly valued, cherished, and considered a source of delight.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H4261}}` is frequently used to describe cherished things that are lost or destroyed as a consequence of judgment. This includes the loss of the **holy**{H6944} and **beautiful**{H8597} **house**{H1004} of God [[Isaiah 64:11]] and its "goodly **vessels**{H3627}" [[2 Chronicles 36:19]]. The term also applies to people, such as the **beloved**{H4261} children of Ephraim who face destruction [[Hosea 9:16]] and Ezekiel's wife, described as the **desire**{H4261} of his eyes, who is taken from him by a **stroke**{H4046} [[Ezekiel 24:16]]. In a contrasting positive sense, it describes the beloved in Song of Solomon as "altogether **lovely**{H4261}" [[Song of Solomon 5:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of what is desirable or valued:
* `{{H4262}}` **machmud** (pleasant thing): A closely related word defined as desired or valuable, used alongside `{{H4261}}` to emphasize the value of things given for food during a siege [[Lamentations 1:11]].
* `{{H4263}}` **machmâl** (pitieth): Used in connection with the destruction of the sanctuary, which is called the **desire**{H4261} of their eyes and the object their **soul**{H5315} **pitieth**{H4263}, highlighting the deep emotional attachment and sympathy for what is lost [[Ezekiel 24:21]].
* `{{H5869}}` **ʻayin** (eye): Frequently paired with `{{H4261}}` to denote things that are visually delightful or desired, as in "all that were **pleasant**{H4261} to the **eye**{H5869}" [[Lamentations 2:4]] or "the **desire**{H4261} of thine **eyes**{H5869}" [[Ezekiel 24:16]].
* `{{H1730}}` **dôwd** (beloved, friend): In Song of Solomon, after describing a person as "altogether **lovely**{H4261}", the speaker declares, "This is my **beloved**{H1730}", directly linking the concept of loveliness to a cherished, personal relationship [[Song of Solomon 5:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4261}}` is primarily seen through the lens of judgment and affection.
* **Loss of Divine Favor:** The term is often tied to the destruction of things Israel held dear, especially the **sanctuary**{H4720} and its treasures. The loss of these "pleasant things" [[Isaiah 64:11]] is a physical manifestation of the spiritual consequences of sin and the removal of God's protection.
* **Objects of Judgment:** God Himself targets the "pleasant things" as an act of judgment. He pours out His **fury**{H2534} on what is "pleasant to the eye" [[Lamentations 2:4]] and profanes the sanctuary, the "desire of their eyes" [[Ezekiel 24:21]], demonstrating that nothing cherished by humanity is safe from the consequences of disobedience.
* **Human and Divine Affection:** Beyond material items, `{{H4261}}` encompasses the deepest human relationships, such as a spouse [[Ezekiel 24:16]] or children [[Hosea 9:16]]. Its use in Song of Solomon to describe a person as "altogether **lovely**{H4261}" elevates the term to a description of cherished personal beauty and character [[Song of Solomon 5:16]].
### Summary
In summary, **machmâd** `{{H4261}}` is a powerful word that encapsulates the concept of a cherished delight or desire. While it can describe the highest form of personal affection and beauty [[Song of Solomon 5:16]], its most frequent biblical usage is in the context of tragic loss. It poignantly illustrates the pain of divine judgment, where the most **pleasant things**—from sacred objects and homes to beloved family members—are taken away, highlighting the profound cost of turning away from God.
TRV