### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word מֵיסָךְ (mêyçâk), Strong's `{{H4329}}`, is a noun derived from the verb סָכַךְ (sakak), Strong's `{{H5526}}`, which means "to cover," "to screen," or "to overshadow." Consequently, mêyçâk inherently signifies something that provides a covering or shelter. Its primary definitions are "portico" (a covered entrance or colonnade) and "covert" (a sheltered or hidden place). The semantic range thus centers on structures that offer protection, shade, or concealment, emphasizing the function of being covered. It denotes a constructed space designed to provide refuge or passage under a protective roof.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term מֵיסָךְ (mêyçâk) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, found in [[2 Kings 16:18]]. The passage describes the actions of King Ahaz of Judah, who, in his apostasy, made significant alterations to the Temple in Jerusalem: "And the covered way for the Sabbath he removed from the house of the LORD, and the king's entry outside he turned away." (ESV).
In this singular occurrence, mêyçâk refers to a specific architectural feature within or adjacent to the Temple. It is typically translated as "covered way," "portico," or "covert." The phrase "the covered way for the Sabbath" suggests a specialized entrance or passageway, possibly used by the king or others specifically on the Sabbath, perhaps for ceremonial purposes or to manage the flow of worshippers. Ahaz's act of removing or altering this structure, alongside the "king's entry," is presented as part of his broader program of religious syncretism and defiance against Yahweh. This was not merely an architectural renovation but a symbolic act of desacralization, disrupting established sacred practices and order. While the precise design of this mêyçâk remains a subject of scholarly discussion, its mention underscores its perceived importance and the gravity of its removal by a king who actively sought to undermine the covenant.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **סָכַךְ (sakak) `{{H5526}}`**: The foundational verb from which mêyçâk is derived. It signifies the act of covering, screening, or overshadowing. This root is prevalent in biblical texts, often describing divine protection (e.g., God's wings covering His people) or the construction of protective coverings (e.g., the Tabernacle's coverings).
* **סֻכָּה (sukkah) `{{H5521}}`**: A related noun meaning "booth," "tent," or "tabernacle." This term is famously associated with the Feast of Booths (Sukkot), where temporary shelters are constructed. Like mêyçâk, it denotes a covered structure for shelter, though sukkah typically implies a more temporary or rustic dwelling, whereas mêyçâk refers to a more permanent architectural element.
* **מִסְכָּה (miskah) `{{H4549}}`**: Another derivative from sakak, meaning "covering" or "screen," often referring to a veil or curtain, emphasizing the function of concealment.
* **Architectural Features**: The concept of porticos, covered walkways, and specialized entrances was common in ancient Near Eastern temples and palaces. These structures served both practical purposes (shelter from elements, control of access) and symbolic ones (defining sacred space, facilitating processions, conveying status). The mêyçâk would have functioned in this broader architectural and cultic context.
### Theological Significance
The singular mention of מֵיסָךְ (mêyçâk) in [[2 Kings 16:18]] carries profound theological weight due to its context within King Ahaz's reign of apostasy. The removal of the "covered way for the Sabbath" is not merely an architectural alteration but a deliberate act of defilement and rebellion against God's established order. This action signifies a rejection of the sanctity of the Temple and the sacredness of the Sabbath, which were foundational elements of Israel's covenant relationship with Yahweh.
The "covered way" likely represented a space of reverence, order, and perhaps even ritual purity for those approaching the Temple on the Sabbath. Its removal by Ahaz can be interpreted as an attempt to dismantle the divinely ordained structure of worship, symbolically stripping away a layer of protection or distinction from God's house. In a broader theological sense, the term's connection to "covering" (from `{{H5526}}`) evokes themes of divine protection and refuge. Ahaz's act, therefore, subtly underscores the human capacity to reject God's provision and to desecrate what is holy, mirroring his deeper spiritual departure from the Lord. It serves as a stark example of how physical changes in sacred spaces can reflect and facilitate spiritual decline and covenant unfaithfulness.
### Summary
The Hebrew word מֵיסָךְ (mêyçâk), Strong's `{{H4329}}`, denotes a "portico" or "covert," a covered structure providing shelter or passage. Derived from the verb סָכַךְ (`{{H5526}}`, "to cover"), its core meaning emphasizes protection and concealment. Its sole biblical occurrence is in [[2 Kings 16:18]], where it refers to the "covered way for the Sabbath" within or connected to the Temple in Jerusalem. King Ahaz's act of removing this mêyçâk is presented as a significant deed of apostasy, symbolizing his disregard for the sanctity of the Temple and the Sabbath. Though appearing only once, the word's context powerfully illustrates the theological implications of architectural changes in sacred spaces, reflecting deeper spiritual realities of obedience or rebellion against divine ordinances.
TRV