### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **machtereth**, represented by `{{H4290}}`, carries the dual meaning of a literal **burglary** or "breaking up," and a figurative "secret search" or unexpected examination. It is a rare term, appearing only **2 times** in **2 unique verses** of the Bible. Its meaning is derived from the root word for digging or breaking through.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two uses of `{{H4290}}` illustrate its literal and metaphorical applications. In [[Exodus 22:2]], it is used in a legal context to describe the physical act of a home invasion, stating that if a **thief** `{{H1590}}` is found **breaking up** `{{H4290}}` and is killed, there is no bloodguilt. In [[Jeremiah 2:34]], the word shifts to a powerful metaphor. God confronts Israel, stating that the **blood** `{{H1818}}` of the innocent poor is on their skirts, and He did not find this guilt by a **secret search** `{{H4290}}`, implying their sin was open and undeniable.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which `{{H4290}}` is used:
* `{{H1590}}` **gannâb** (a stealer; thief): This word is directly linked to the literal meaning of `{{H4290}}` in [[Exodus 22:2]], identifying the person committing the act of "breaking up."
* `{{H1818}}` **dâm** (blood...bloodshed): This term appears in both verses where `{{H4290}}` is found. It connects the physical consequence of stopping a burglary with the metaphorical evidence of social injustice, highlighting themes of guilt and consequence ([[Exodus 22:2]], [[Jeremiah 2:34]]).
* `{{H4672}}` **mâtsâʼ** (to...find or acquire): Central to both occurrences, this word describes the discovery of the **thief** `{{H1590}}` in the act [[Exodus 22:2]] and the finding of guilt that was so apparent it needed no **secret search** `{{H4290}}` [[Jeremiah 2:34]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4290}}` is found in its sharp contrast between hidden action and exposed guilt.
* **Justice and Culpability:** The usage in [[Exodus 22:2]] establishes a clear legal principle regarding the protection of one's home and the lack of bloodguiltiness when defending against a violent intrusion described as "breaking up."
* **Overt Sin:** The prophetic use in [[Jeremiah 2:34]] powerfully argues that Israel's sins were not hidden crimes that needed to be uncovered by a "secret search." Instead, their guilt was blatant and visible to all, like bloodstains on a garment.
* **Literal vs. Figurative Intrusion:** The word connects a physical, criminal act of intrusion with the concept of a divine or moral examination. While a burglar's act is done in secret, the sins of the nation were so profound they required no such hidden investigation to be brought to light.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4290}}` **machtereth** offers a specific and potent concept. Though used only twice, it effectively contrasts the secretive, physical act of burglary with the overt, spiritual guilt of a nation. It serves as a key term for understanding biblical law concerning self-defense and prophetic condemnation of sin that is too flagrant to be hidden.
TRV