### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mêyçâk**, represented by `{{H4329}}`, is defined as a **covert** or a portico, suggesting a covered structure. It is derived from the root סָכַךְ. This term is exceptionally rare in the scriptures, appearing only **2 times** within a single, unique verse.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H4329}}` is in [[2 Kings 16:18]], where it describes a specific architectural feature of the temple. The text refers to "the **covert** for the sabbath that they had built in the house." This structure, along with the king's outer entry, was moved or altered by the king. The verse states this action was "turned he from the house of the LORD" for the sake of the king of Assyria, indicating a significant change to a sacred space driven by political pressure.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context help illuminate the meaning of this structure and its setting:
* `{{H1129}}` **bânâh** (to build): This primitive root means to build, repair, or set up. It confirms that the **covert** `{{H4329}}` was a deliberately constructed feature, as the verse states it was something "that they had **built**" [[2 Kings 16:18]]. This word is also used when the LORD is said to **build** the house [[Psalms 127:1]].
* `{{H1004}}` **bayith** (house): This word for **house** can refer to a family, a palace, or the temple. The **covert** `{{H4329}}` was located "in the **house** of the LORD" [[2 Kings 16:18]], situating it within the most sacred dwelling place of God.
* `{{H2435}}` **chîytsôwn** (without): This term signifies an exterior or outward position. In the same verse, the king's entry is described as being "**without**" [[2 Kings 16:18]], providing a spatial contrast to elements inside the house of the LORD and highlighting modifications to the temple's external areas.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4329}}` is derived entirely from its singular, pointed context.
* **Desecration of Sacred Elements:** The **covert** was not just any structure; it was a feature "for the **sabbath**" `{{H7676}}` located in the **house** `{{H1004}}` of the **LORD** `{{H3068}}`. Its alteration represents a profaning of a sacred object and place.
* **Political Compromise:** The king's action to turn the **covert** was done "for the **king** `{{H4428}}` of Assyria." This act demonstrates a willingness to compromise religious integrity and dishonor God's house to appease a foreign, earthly power.
* **Misuse of Royal Authority:** The passage highlights a **king** `{{H4428}}` using his authority to change elements dedicated to the worship of the **LORD** `{{H3068}}`, showing the potential for human leadership to interfere with divine instructions and holy things.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H4329}}` is a minor word in terms of frequency, its single appearance in [[2 Kings 16:18]] is significant. As the **covert** for the sabbath, it stands as a potent symbol within a narrative of religious and political compromise. It captures a specific moment of history where a sacred structure, built for the worship of the **LORD** `{{H3068}}`, was altered for worldly reasons, illustrating the conflict between faithfulness to God and the pressures of human kingdoms.
TRV