from מָלֵא; a fulfilling (only in plural), i.e. (literally) a setting (of gems), or (technically) consecration (also concretely, a dedicatory sacrifice); consecration, be set.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **milluʼ**, represented by `{{H4394}}`, describes a "fulfilling." It appears 15 times across 15 unique verses in the Bible. Its meaning is twofold: the literal act of setting precious gems and the technical, ceremonial act of consecration, particularly in the context of dedicating priests and sacrifices to the service of the LORD `{{H3068}}`.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its literal sense, `{{H4394}}` refers to the "stones to be set" for sacred items. These include onyx `{{H7718}}` stones `{{H68}}` and other precious `{{H3368}}` gems prepared for the house `{{H1004}}` of God `{{H430}}` [[1 Chronicles 29:2]]. This usage is also prominent in the instructions for crafting the high priest's garments, specifically the stones `{{H68}}` to be set in the ephod `{{H646}}` and the breastplate `{{H2833}}` [[Exodus 25:7]]. More frequently, the term is used technically for the consecration of Aaron `{{H175}}` and his sons `{{H1121}}`. The "ram `{{H352}}` of consecration" is a central part of this ceremony [[Exodus 29:22]], and its flesh `{{H1320}}` and associated bread `{{H3899}}` are considered holy `{{H6944}}` ([[Exodus 29:31]], [[Exodus 29:34]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the concept of consecration:
* `{{H4390}}` **mâlêʼ** (to fill, be full of, consecrate): As the root word for `{{H4394}}`, it directly means "to fill" or "consecrate." It is used to describe the completion of the consecration period, showing that the seven `{{H7651}}` days `{{H3117}}` of the priests' consecration `{{H4394}}` must be fulfilled [[Leviticus 8:33]].
* `{{H6942}}` **qâdash** (consecrate, dedicate, sanctify): This word describes the act of making something holy. It is used in direct parallel with `{{H4394}}`, as when Moses `{{H4872}}` is commanded to sanctify `{{H6942}}` parts of the ram `{{H352}}` of consecration `{{H4394}}` [[Exodus 29:27]].
* `{{H352}}` **ʼayil** (ram, strength): The ram is the specified animal for the dedicatory sacrifice of consecration. The phrase "ram `{{H352}}` of consecration `{{H4394}}`" appears multiple times, highlighting the strength and significance of this particular offering in setting the priests apart [[Leviticus 8:22]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4394}}` is centered on the requirements for sacred service.
* **Priestly Ordination:** The consecration `{{H4394}}` is the formal process that sets apart Aaron `{{H175}}` and his sons `{{H1121}}` for their unique role as priests. This involves specific sacrifices, such as the "ram `{{H352}}` of consecration," upon which they lay `{{H5564}}` their hands `{{H3027}}` [[Leviticus 8:22]].
* **Ritual Purity and Holiness:** The consecration `{{H4394}}` rituals create a state of holiness `{{H6944}}`. The remains of the consecrated flesh `{{H1320}}` and bread `{{H3899}}` must be burned `{{H8313}}` with fire `{{H784}}` and not eaten `{{H398}}`, because they are holy [[Exodus 29:34]]. This underscores the separation between the sacred and the profane.
* **A Pleasing Offering:** The sacrifices associated with consecration `{{H4394}}` are presented as an offering made by fire `{{H801}}` that produces a "sweet `{{H5207}}` savour `{{H7381}}`" to the LORD `{{H3068}}`, signifying divine acceptance of the priests' dedication [[Leviticus 8:28]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4394}}` is a highly specific term that ties together the concepts of fulfilling, setting, and dedicating. Whether referring to the careful setting of a stone `{{H68}}` in the high priest's breastplate `{{H2833}}` or the multi-day ritual for consecrating a priest for service, it signifies a permanent and holy placement. The word illustrates how both physical craftsmanship and spiritual dedication are brought together and "set apart" for the service of God `{{H430}}`.