### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mekeç**, represented by `{{H4371}}`, denotes an **assessment** or **tribute**. Based on what is probably an unused root meaning to enumerate, it appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible. Its usage is highly specific, referring to a portion set aside from a census of spoils as a special levy for the Lord.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
All occurrences of `{{H4371}}` are found in Numbers 31, detailing the spoils of war. After a battle, a command is given to "levy a **tribute** unto the LORD" from the men of war [[Numbers 31:28]]. This assessment was precisely calculated as one soul out of five hundred from the persons, beeves, asses, and sheep. The subsequent verses meticulously record the exact count of the LORD's **tribute** from the sheep [[Numbers 31:37]], the beeves [[Numbers 31:38]], the asses [[Numbers 31:39]], and the persons [[Numbers 31:40]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Two related words are crucial for understanding the context and function of this tribute:
* `{{H7311}}` **rûwm**: This root, meaning to raise or lift up, is used for the verb "**levy**" in the command to set apart the tribute [[Numbers 31:28]]. This action signifies the setting apart or "lifting out" of a special portion.
* `{{H8641}}` **tᵉrûwmâh**: Defined as a present or **heave offering**, this term is used to clarify the nature of the tribute. The text states that Moses gave the **tribute** `{{H4371}}` to the priest as "the LORD'S **heave offering**" [[Numbers 31:41]], directly connecting the assessed tax to an act of sacred worship.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4371}}` is significant within its narrative context:
* **The LORD's Portion:** The repetition of the phrase "the LORD'S **tribute**" ([[Numbers 31:37]], 38, 39, 40) establishes the principle that God has a rightful, designated share in the spoils of victory.
* **Tribute as Worship:** The tribute is explicitly identified as a **heave offering** `{{H8641}}`, which elevates it from a mere administrative tax to a sacred offering. It was given to Eleazar the priest as something holy, set apart for the LORD [[Numbers 31:41]].
* **Divine Command:** The levying of the **tribute** was not a human suggestion but a direct commandment from the LORD to Moses [[Numbers 31:41]], underscoring its importance and binding nature as a divine ordinance.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4371}}` is a very specific term for a divinely mandated **tribute** or assessment taken from the spoils of war. Its sole appearance in scripture, within Numbers 31, illustrates how a calculated portion of material gain is to be set apart for God. The word demonstrates a seamless link between a census-based levy and a sacred **heave offering**, acknowledging the LORD's sovereignty and role in the victory.
TRV