### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word machărâʼâh (`{{H4280}}`) is derived from the root חֶרֶא (chere', `{{H2716}}`), which signifies "dung" or "excrement." Consequently, machărâʼâh denotes a place designated for the disposal of waste, specifically a "sink" or "draught house." The term "draught house" is an archaic rendering for a latrine or privy, a facility where human or animal waste is collected and removed. The core meaning thus centers on a location of filth, impurity, and profound contempt, intrinsically linked to the concept of defilement.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term machărâʼâh (`{{H4280}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in [[2 Kings 10:27]]. This solitary occurrence is highly significant within its specific historical and theological context. The passage describes Jehu's zealous purge of Baal worship from Israel. After utterly destroying the idol of Baal, Jehu proceeds to demolish the temple of Baal and "made it a draught house (מַחֲרָאָה) to this day."
This act was a deliberate and extreme measure of desecration. By converting the sacred precinct of Baal into a public latrine, Jehu rendered it ritually unclean and utterly unfit for any form of religious veneration or even ordinary use. This was not merely an act of physical destruction but a profound symbolic gesture of defilement, reducing the once-revered place of false worship to the lowest possible status—a place of human waste and abomination. It unequivocally communicated the complete rejection and nullification of Baal's cult, marking it as utterly contemptible in the eyes of the true God.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding machărâʼâh (`{{H4280}}`) is enhanced by examining related terms and concepts:
* חֶרֶא (chere', `{{H2716}}`): As its direct root, this word for "dung" or "excrement" is fundamental to grasping the defiling and contemptuous nature of machărâʼâh.
* זֶבֶל (zevel, `{{H2073}}`): Another Hebrew term for "dung" or "refuse," often used in contexts of idolatry or worthlessness, as seen in [[2 Kings 9:37]].
* שֶׁקֶץ (sheqets, `{{H8251}}`): This word signifies a "detestable thing" or "abomination," frequently applied to idols, ritually unclean animals, or practices abhorrent to Yahweh.
* **Concepts:** The actions surrounding machărâʼâh embody key biblical concepts such as desecration, defilement, impurity, abomination, and the forceful rejection of idolatry. The transformation of a sacred space into a machărâʼâh represents the ultimate expression of divine judgment and contempt, declaring its absolute impurity and worthlessness in the sight of the Holy God.
### Theological Significance
The singular yet potent appearance of machărâʼâh (`{{H4280}}`) carries profound theological weight. It serves as a powerful illustration of the Lord's absolute abhorrence of idolatry and His demand for exclusive worship. By transforming the temple of Baal into a latrine, Jehu physically manifested Yahweh's total victory over and utter contempt for false gods. It was a tangible demonstration of divine judgment against spiritual infidelity and the worship of created things rather than the Creator.
This act underscores the critical biblical concept of ritual purity and impurity. A place dedicated to an idol, already considered an abomination, is further reduced to the lowest possible state of impurity, rendering it perpetually unusable for any sacred purpose. It stands as a stark object lesson: that which opposes God, no matter how grand or revered by its adherents, is ultimately worthless, destined for defilement, and marked for destruction. It highlights the unbridgeable chasm between the holiness of God and the defilement inherent in idolatry.
### Summary
The Hebrew term machărâʼâh (`{{H4280}}`), meaning "draught house" or latrine, derives from the word for "dung." Its sole biblical appearance in [[2 Kings 10:27]] is profoundly symbolic, detailing Jehu's transformation of the Baal temple into a public latrine. This act represented the ultimate desecration, signifying the complete rejection, defilement, and utter contempt for Baal worship. Theologically, it powerfully illustrates God's absolute abhorrence of idolatry, His triumph over false gods, and the inherent worthlessness and impurity of anything that opposes His holiness. It serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of spiritual rebellion and the divine imperative for purity in worship.
TRV