The Hebrew word miklôwl, represented by H4358, denotes perfection or splendor. Derived from a root meaning perfection, it is used adverbially to mean splendidly and is translated as "most gorgeously" or "all sorts". This specific term is rare, appearing only 2 times in 2 unique verses in the Bible.
The two appearances of H4358 are found in the book of Ezekiel, where it describes a sense of completeness or magnificent appearance. In one instance, it characterizes the desirable attire of Assyrian captains and rulers who were "clothed most gorgeously" Ezekiel 23:12. In the other, it depicts the comprehensive outfitting of a great army, described as being "clothed with all sorts of armour," including bucklers and shields Ezekiel 38:4. Both uses emphasize a state of perfection in appearance, whether for seduction or for battle.
Several related words appear alongside H4358, providing context for its meaning of splendor and completeness:
- H3847 lâbash (clothe): This root word means to "put on a garment or clothe." It is used in both verses where H4358 appears, linking the idea of perfection to what is worn, whether it is gorgeous attire Ezekiel 23:12 or military armor Ezekiel 38:4.
- H4043 mâgên (shield): Defined as a "shield" or "protector," this word is part of the extensive list of military gear in Ezekiel 38:4. Its presence underscores the "all sorts" of armor, contributing to the army's image of perfect preparation.
- H2719 chereb (sword): Meaning "a cutting instrument... sword," this word completes the picture of a fully armed soldier. It appears in the list of equipment for the army that is clothed with "all sorts" of armor Ezekiel 38:4.
The theological weight of H4358 is seen through its specific contexts in Ezekiel.
- Worldly Splendor and Temptation: The word is used to describe the alluring appearance of the Assyrians, who are "clothed most gorgeously" Ezekiel 23:12. This highlights how outward perfection and splendor can be a source of worldly temptation and lead to unfaithfulness.
- Completeness in Divine Judgment: In Ezekiel 38:4, the army God brings forth is perfectly equipped with "all sorts of armour." This "perfection" of arms, including shields H4043, bucklers H6793, and swords H2719, signifies a force fully prepared to execute a divine purpose of judgment.
- Perfection as a Descriptor of Power: In both instances, H4358 describes a state of completeness that projects power and formidability, whether it is the seductive power of a neighboring empire or the martial power of a great army.
In summary, H4358 miklôwl is a concise and potent term for perfection and splendor. Though used only twice, it powerfully illustrates how a state of being "most gorgeously" adorned or equipped with "all sorts" of gear can represent significant worldly power. The term is used in Ezekiel to depict both the dangerous allure of a foreign nation Ezekiel 23:12 and the comprehensive might of an army assembled for judgment Ezekiel 38:4, linking outward perfection to themes of temptation and divine action.
TRV