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 term H4394 (מִלֻּא, *milluʼ*), derived from the root מָלֵא (maleʼ, `{{H4390}}`), carries a nuanced semantic range centered on the concept of "filling" or "completion." The base definition highlights its usage exclusively in the plural form. Its primary meanings diverge into two distinct, yet related, spheres:
1. **Literal/Material Completion:** This refers to the "setting" or "inlaying" of precious stones. In this context, *milluʼ* signifies the act of filling a designated space within an object (like a piece of jewelry or garment) with an insert, thereby completing its design or function. It implies precision and the final embellishment that makes an item whole and fit for purpose.
2. **Technical/Ritual Consecration:** This denotes "consecration" or a "dedicatory sacrifice." Here, *milluʼ* refers to the process by which individuals (specifically priests) or objects are set apart and made holy for divine service. This meaning is deeply tied to the idiomatic expression "filling of the hand" (מִלּוּא יָד), which signifies ordination or installation into a sacred office. It represents the completion of a ritual process that bestows authority and sacred status.
Both senses underscore a state of fullness, completion, or being made adequate for a specific, often sacred, role or appearance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term H4394 appears exclusively in the books of Exodus and Leviticus, primarily in contexts related to the Tabernacle and the establishment of the Levitical priesthood.
In **Exodus**, *milluʼ* is consistently used in its literal sense, referring to the "settings" or "inlay" of the precious stones on the High Priest's ephod and breastpiece:
* [[Exodus 25:7]], [[Exodus 28:9]], [[Exodus 28:20]], [[Exodus 35:9]], [[Exodus 35:27]], [[Exodus 39:13]].
These passages describe the intricate craftsmanship involved in preparing the priestly garments. The "settings" (מִלֻּאִים) for the stones were crucial for securely holding the twelve gems, each representing one of the tribes of Israel, upon the High Priest's heart. This use emphasizes the divine command for precise construction and the symbolic importance of the completed sacred attire. The stones, once "set," completed the breastpiece, making it fully functional and aesthetically perfect for its sacred purpose.
In **Leviticus**, the usage shifts to the technical sense of "consecration" or "ordination offering," specifically concerning the installation of Aaron and his sons into the priesthood:
* [[Leviticus 7:35]], [[Leviticus 8:22]], [[Leviticus 8:26]], [[Leviticus 8:28]], [[Leviticus 8:29]].
Here, *milluʼ* (often appearing as מִלּוּאִים, *millu'im*) refers to the "ram of consecration" (אֵיל הַמִּלֻּאִים) and the associated offerings made during the seven-day ordination ceremony. This ritual involved specific sacrifices, anointing with oil, and the sprinkling of blood, all culminating in the "filling of the hand" of the priests. This process was essential for their divine authorization and purification, enabling them to perform their sacred duties. The "consecration" was a process of making them complete and fully equipped for their holy office.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic connection for H4394 is its root, מָלֵא (maleʼ, `{{H4390}}`), which means "to be full, fill, fulfill, or complete." This foundational meaning undergirds both semantic domains of *milluʼ*: the filling of a space with a gem, and the filling of an individual with sacred authority.
Key related concepts include:
* **"Filling the hand" (מִלּוּא יָד):** This is the Hebrew idiom for ordination or installation into priestly office. The *milluʼ* offerings are the means by which this "filling" or empowerment occurs. It signifies the bestowal of authority and responsibility for sacred service.
* **Holiness (קֹדֶשׁ, *qodesh*):** The purpose of *milluʼ* in the context of consecration is to set apart individuals or objects as holy, dedicated exclusively to Yahweh. The process transforms them from common to sacred.
* **Priestly Garments:** The ephod and breastpiece, with their precisely "set" stones, are integral to the High Priest's identity and function, signifying his role as mediator and representative of Israel before God.
* **Sacrifice and Offering:** The "ram of consecration" and other associated offerings are central to the ritual of *milluʼ*, demonstrating the necessity of expiation and dedication for entering into God's service.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of *milluʼ* is profound, encapsulating fundamental aspects of God's relationship with His people and the establishment of sacred order.
1. **Divine Initiative and Ordination:** The detailed commands for both the "setting" of stones and the "consecration" of priests underscore God's sovereign initiative in establishing the means of worship and mediation. He meticulously defines the requirements for those who would draw near to Him, ensuring that His holiness is respected and His presence is approached in the prescribed manner. The process of *milluʼ* is a divine act of authorization.
2. **Holiness and Separation:** Both applications of *milluʼ* speak to the concept of holiness. The carefully "set" stones on the priestly garments represent the tribes of Israel, brought into a state of ordered beauty and placed upon the High Priest's heart as he ministers before God. The "consecration" of the priests transforms them from common individuals into holy servants, set apart to mediate between a holy God and an unholy people. This separation is not merely ceremonial but signifies a profound change in status and purpose.
3. **Completeness and Perfection for Service:** The idea of "filling" or "completion" inherent in *milluʼ* suggests that the priests, through their consecration, are made perfectly adequate and equipped for their sacred duties. They are "filled" with the necessary authority, purity, and divine appointment to perform their office. Similarly, the garments, with their "set" stones, are made complete and perfect for their symbolic and functional role in the Tabernacle service. This points to the divine standard of excellence required in all aspects of worship.
4. **Typological Significance:** The Levitical system of milluʼ, with its temporary and repeated consecrations, foreshadows the ultimate and perfect "consecration" of Jesus Christ. As the Great High Priest (cf. [[Hebrews 4:14]], [[Hebrews 7:26-28]]), He was "consecrated" (τετελειωμένον, *teteleiōmenon*, "made perfect") through His sinless life and once-for-for-all sacrifice, fulfilling and transcending the temporary Old Testament rituals. His "filling" of the law and prophets ([[Matthew 5:17]]) and His complete dedication to the Father's will represent the ultimate *milluʼ*, establishing a new and living way to God.
### Summary
The Hebrew word H4394 (מִלֻּא, *milluʼ*), derived from the root מָלֵא (to be full), encompasses two critical semantic domains within the Pentateuch: the precise "setting of gems" on sacred priestly garments and the ritual "consecration" or "ordination offering" of the Levitical priesthood. In Exodus, it describes the material completion and embellishment of the High Priest's breastpiece with its twelve stones, signifying order and representation. In Leviticus, it refers to the essential sacrificial and ceremonial acts that "filled the hands" of Aaron and his sons, thereby consecrating them for their holy office. Theologically, *milluʼ* underscores God's meticulous design for worship, His demand for holiness and separation, and His divine empowerment of those called to serve Him. Ultimately, these Old Testament patterns of "filling" and "consecration" find their perfect and eternal fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ, our great and eternally consecrated High Priest.
TRV