### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **miklâh**, represented by `{{H4357}}`, denotes **completion** or **perfect**. It is derived from a root word meaning completion and can be used adverbially to mean wholly. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the entirety of the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H4357}}` is found in a descriptive list of items made for Solomon's temple. In [[2 Chronicles 4:21]], it is used to qualify the gold for the temple implements, specifying that the flowers, lamps, and tongs were made of "**perfect** gold." This highlights not just the material's value but its state of absolute completeness and flawlessness, fitting for objects used in the service of God.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{H4357}}` links it directly to other significant terms related to the temple's construction and furnishing:
* `{{H2091}}` **zâhâb** (gold): This precious metal, described as shimmering, is the substance qualified as "perfect" [[2 Chronicles 4:21]]. It is consistently used for sacred objects of great value.
* `{{H6525}}` **perach** (flower): This refers to a bloom or calyx, an ornamental design element. In the temple, these floral designs were fashioned from the perfect gold [[2 Chronicles 4:21]].
* `{{H5216}}` **nîyr** (lamp): A lamp or light burner. These lamps, part of the temple's essential furnishings, were also made of this same perfect gold [[2 Chronicles 4:21]].
* `{{H4457}}` **melqâch** (tongs): These were tweezers or tongs used for temple service. The insistence on using perfect gold for such tools underscores the holiness of every detail [[2 Chronicles 4:21]].
### Theological Significance
While used only once, the theological weight of `{{H4357}}` is seen in its application. It points to a standard of absolute purity and wholeness in what is offered to God.
* **Perfection in Consecration:** By describing the gold for temple items as **perfect**, the text establishes a principle that objects dedicated to God must be complete and without blemish. The term elevates the material from merely expensive to ritually and spiritually whole [[2 Chronicles 4:21]].
* **Symbolism of Refined Gold:** The substance being described is gold `{{H2091}}`, which in other contexts is associated with a refining process that purges away impurities. Gold is something that is tried and tested to prove its purity ([[Zechariah 13:9]], [[Malachi 3:3]]). Therefore, "perfect gold" implies a material that has reached its ultimate state of refinement.
* **Holiness of the Mundane:** The term is applied not only to ornamental flowers `{{H6525}}` but also to functional items like lamps `{{H5216}}` and tongs `{{H4457}}`. This suggests that every part of worship, even the supporting tools, must meet a divine standard of completeness.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4357}}` is a highly specific term whose singular appearance carries significant meaning. As **miklâh**, it signifies a state of "completion" or being "perfect." Its use in [[2 Chronicles 4:21]] to describe the gold for temple instruments demonstrates the biblical principle that what is dedicated to God should be whole, flawless, and of the utmost purity, reflecting a divine standard of excellence for worship.
TRV