### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **machărâʼâh**, represented by `{{H4280}}`, refers to a **sink** or **draught house**. This term is extremely rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its singular use is not for mundane description but to signify the ultimate defilement of a space, turning a significant structure into a place of waste.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H4280}}` is in [[2 Kings 10:27]], which chronicles a drastic act of religious reform. In this passage, the followers of God "brake down" `{{H5422}}` the "image" `{{H4676}}` of Baal, and then they "brake down" `{{H5422}}` the "house" `{{H1004}}` of Baal. To complete the site's eradication as a center for idolatry, they "made" `{{H7760}}` it a **draught house**. This act transformed a place of false worship into a public latrine, a status that the verse notes continued "unto this day" `{{H3117}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illuminate the context and significance of this event:
* `{{H4163}}` **môwtsâʼâh** (draught house; going forth): This word is used directly alongside `{{H4280}}` in the biblical text and also means **draught house**, reinforcing the intentional conversion of the site into a sewer or latrine [[2 Kings 10:27]].
* `{{H5422}}` **nâthats** (to tear down): This verb is used twice in the verse, describing the physical destruction of both the idol and the temple, emphasizing the complete overthrow that preceded the building's profane new purpose [[2 Kings 10:27]].
* `{{H1004}}` **bayith** (house): Typically referring to a home, palace, or temple, its use here stands in stark contrast to its conversion into a **draught house**, highlighting the fall from a place of significance to one of absolute filth [[2 Kings 10:27]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4280}}` is derived entirely from its role in this powerful, symbolic act of judgment.
* **Desecration of Idolatry:** The transformation of a temple into a **draught house** represents the ultimate expression of contempt for false worship. It is an act designed to make the location ritually and physically repulsive, ensuring it could never again be used for religious purposes.
* **Physical Cleansing:** The event described is a tangible demonstration of purging sin. The command to tear down altars and break images of false gods is given elsewhere [[Exodus 34:13]], and this account provides a vivid example of that principle taken to its extreme conclusion.
* **Enduring Judgment:** The mention that the site remained a **draught house** "unto this day" `{{H3117}}` frames the event as a lasting memorial. It serves as a permanent warning against the worship of idols like "Baal" `{{H1168}}` and a testament to the consequences of such actions.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4280}}` is a term whose significance far outweighs its frequency. Though it simply means **draught house**, its single use in the Bible makes it a potent symbol of total desecration and judgment against idolatry. The word captures a moment where a physical space was deliberately and permanently defiled to make an unforgettable theological statement about the purity of worship and the utter rejection of false gods.
TRV