### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word mᵉkunâh (מְכֻנָה, `{{H4369}}`) is understood to be semantically identical to, or a variant spelling of, mᵉkônâh (מְכוֹנָה, `{{H4368}}`). Both terms derive from the robust root kûn (כּוּן, `{{H3559}}`), which carries the fundamental meaning "to be firm, to be established, to be prepared, to be steadfast." Consequently, mᵉkunâh primarily signifies a "base," "stand," or "pedestal"—something that provides stable support or a fixed foundation. The extended definition "spot" implies a designated, prepared, or specific location rather than a general area. The inherent nuance of mᵉkunâh is one of stability, intentionality, and a supportive structure, often for a particular object or purpose.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
While mᵉkunâh (`{{H4369}}`) itself is exceedingly rare or perhaps a textual variant, its meaning is fully illuminated by the numerous occurrences of its cognate, mᵉkônâh (`{{H4368}}`), especially in the detailed architectural descriptions of Solomon's Temple.
* **Temple Furnishings:** The most prominent context for mᵉkônâh (`{{H4368}}`) is in [[1 Kings 7]] and [[2 Chronicles 4]], where it refers to the elaborate bronze "bases" or "stands" (often translated as "pedestals" or "laver stands") upon which the ten bronze lavers rested in the Temple courtyard. These bases were not merely functional but were intricately designed with detailed engravings of lions, oxen, and cherubim, and equipped with wheels for movement ([[1 Kings 7:27-39]]).
* **Functional Significance:** The mᵉkunâh (or mᵉkônâh) served a crucial role in supporting the lavers, which were used for ritual washing by the priests. Their sturdy construction and decorative elements underscored the sanctity and divine order of the Temple and its services. The precise description of their dimensions and ornamentation emphasizes the meticulous attention to detail required in sacred worship.
* **Implication for mᵉkunâh (`{{H4369}}`):** Any instance of mᵉkunâh (`{{H4369}}`) would carry these same connotations of a well-crafted, stable, and purposeful base or fixed place, particularly within a cultic or divinely ordained context. It denotes a foundational element, essential for the proper functioning and presentation of what it supports.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **Root kûn (כּוּן, `{{H3559}}`):** This foundational root is key to understanding mᵉkunâh. It conveys concepts of firmness ([[Psalm 93:2]]), establishment ([[Psalm 89:2]]), preparation ([[Psalm 57:7]]), and divine ordering ([[Proverbs 3:19]]). The noun mᵉkunâh thus inherently carries this sense of being "established" or "prepared."
* **mᵉkônâh (מְכוֹנָה, `{{H4368}}`):** As discussed, this is the direct and more frequently attested cognate, providing the primary contextual understanding for mᵉkunâh as a "base" or "stand" in sacred architecture.
* **mâkôn (מָכוֹן, `{{H4349}}`):** Also derived from kûn, this noun means "a fixed place, foundation, dwelling place." It is often used in reference to God's "established place" or "dwelling" ([[1 Kings 8:13]], [[Psalm 33:14]]), reinforcing the idea of a secure, divinely appointed location.
* **Architectural and Structural Terms:** Other words denoting foundational or supportive elements, such as yᵉsôd (יְסוֹד, `{{H3248}}`, "foundation"), ammûd (עַמּוּד, `{{H5982}}`, "pillar"), and kên (כֵּן, `{{H3653}}`, "pedestal" or "base"), share a conceptual field with mᵉkunâh in describing the stability and structure of buildings, particularly those dedicated to worship.
### Theological Significance
* **Divine Order and Stability:** The concept of a "base" or "fixed spot" embedded in mᵉkunâh speaks to the divine order and stability that undergirds creation and worship. Just as the Temple furnishings required stable bases, so too does God establish the world on firm foundations ([[Psalm 24:2]]). This reflects God's meticulous design and the unwavering reliability of His established decrees.
* **Sacred Space and Purity:** In the context of the Temple, the mᵉkunâh (via mᵉkônâh) highlights the sanctity and precision required in the implements of worship. Supporting the lavers, these bases facilitated the ritual washing necessary for priestly purity, emphasizing the importance of preparation and holiness in approaching God. The very existence of such a "base" implies a designated, holy purpose for the object it supports within the sacred economy.
* **God's Immutability and Presence:** When linked to terms like mâkôn (`{{H4349}}`), the idea of a "fixed place" for God's presence or throne emerges. This signifies God's immutable character and His steadfast presence among His people. The "base" is not merely physical but can symbolize the foundational truth of God's dwelling and His covenant faithfulness, providing a secure ground for the believer's trust.
* **Preparation for Service:** Given the root kûn also signifies "to be prepared," mᵉkunâh can subtly suggest a prepared place or a firm foundation for service, whether for the Levites in their Temple duties or for believers in their spiritual walk. It implies that true service is built upon a divinely established and stable groundwork.
### Summary
The Hebrew word mᵉkunâh (מְכֻנָה, `{{H4369}}`), closely related to mᵉkônâh (`{{H4368}}`), fundamentally denotes a "base," "stand," or "fixed spot." Rooted in kûn (`{{H3559}}`), meaning "to be firm" or "established," it inherently conveys stability, support, and purposeful placement. Its primary biblical context, drawn from its cognate, is the intricate, wheeled bases of the lavers in Solomon's Temple, underscoring the meticulous design of sacred architecture and the importance of ritual purity. Theologically, mᵉkunâh speaks to the divine order and stability of creation, the sacredness of God's established dwelling places, and the necessity of firm foundations for worship and service. It highlights the precision and intentionality inherent in God's design and His unwavering, foundational presence.
TRV