### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **machătsîyth** `{{H4276}}`, derived from the root `{{H2673}}` which means to **halve** or divide, signifies a **half**, the middle, or midday. It appears **17 times** across **14 unique verses** in the Bible, often referring to precise divisions of quantities, territories, and time.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its applications, `{{H4276}}` is frequently used to denote precise measurements. It establishes the **half** shekel `{{H8255}}` as the standard offering `{{H8641}}` for the sanctuary `{{H6944}}`, required equally from both the **rich** `{{H6223}}` and the **poor** `{{H1800}}` to make an **atonement** `{{H3722}}` for your souls `{{H5315}}` [[Exodus 30:15]]. The term also defines divisions of land, particularly the territory of the **half** tribe `{{H4294}}` of Manasseh `{{H4519}}` [[Joshua 21:25]]. Additionally, it marks a point in time, such as when Ezra read from the book `{{H5612}}` of the **law** `{{H8451}}` from the morning until **midday** [[Nehemiah 8:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of division and portions:
* `{{H2673}}` **châtsâh**: As the primitive root, this word means to **halve** or **divide**. It is used directly when Moses **divided** `{{H2673}}` the spoils of war from the men `{{H582}}` that warred `{{H6633}}` [[Numbers 31:42]].
* `{{H2677}}` **chêtsîy**: A close synonym also meaning **half** or middle. The two words appear together in reference to the portion given to the sons `{{H1121}}` of Kohath `{{H6955}}` from the **half** `{{H2677}}` tribe, namely, out of the **half** `{{H4276}}` tribe of Manasseh `{{H4519}}` [[1 Chronicles 6:61]].
* `{{H8255}}` **sheqel**: This term for a weight or coin is frequently paired with `{{H4276}}` to define the specific monetary amount of an offering, the **half** a **shekel** [[Exodus 30:13]].
* `{{H8641}}` **tᵉrûwmâh**: This word for an **offering** or tribute is what the **half** shekel constituted in God's command, an **offering** `{{H8641}}` of the LORD `{{H3068}}` [[Exodus 30:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4276}}` is significant in establishing principles of equity and order.
* **Equality Before God:** The mandate that every person, **rich** `{{H6223}}` or **poor** `{{H1800}}`, give a **half** shekel `{{H8255}}` as an offering `{{H8641}}` to make **atonement** `{{H3722}}` underscores a foundational principle: the cost of atonement before the LORD `{{H3068}}` is the same for every **soul** `{{H5315}}` [[Exodus 30:15]].
* **Divine Order and Justice:** The word is used to structure Israel's civil and religious life through precise divisions. This is seen in the systematic halving of the spoils of war to ensure fair distribution, with a portion of the people's **half** `{{H4276}}` set aside for the **Levites** `{{H3881}}` who keep `{{H8104}}` the charge `{{H4931}}` of the tabernacle `{{H4908}}` [[Numbers 31:30]].
* **Consecration of Portions:** The use of `{{H4276}}` in sacred recipes, like for the holy spices `{{H1314}}` [[Exodus 30:23]], and in the perpetual `{{H8548}}` offerings `{{H4503}}` [[Leviticus 6:20]], demonstrates that specific, measured parts are set apart for the service of God, highlighting the sanctity of what is given to Him.
### Summary
In conclusion, **machătsîyth** `{{H4276}}` is more than a simple mathematical term for **half**. It is a word that embodies concepts of equity, divine order, and sacred division. From the equal offering required for atonement to the organized distribution of land and spoils, `{{H4276}}` illustrates a God who operates with precision and justice, ensuring that both responsibilities and provisions are correctly apportioned among His people.
TRV