The Hebrew word milluʼâh, represented by H4396, is defined as "a filling, i.e. setting (of gems); enclosing, setting." This specific term appears 3 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible. It consistently refers to the physical mountings or frames designed to hold precious stones in place, particularly within the context of sacred priestly garments.
The use of H4396 is found exclusively in the book of Exodus during the detailed description of the high priest's breastplate. In God's instructions, it is commanded to create "settings of stones" arranged in "four rows" Exodus 28:17. The word is later translated as "inclosings" when describing how the gems for the fourth row are to be set in gold Exodus 28:20. This is reiterated in the account of the breastplate's creation, which states the stones "were inclosed in ouches of gold in their inclosings" Exodus 39:13.
Several related words help clarify the context and meaning of H4396:
- H4390 mâlêʼ: This is the primitive root meaning "to fill or (intransitively) be full of." It represents the action that results in a "filling" or setting, and is used broadly for concepts like accomplishing a task or replenishing the earth Genesis 1:28.
- H2905 ṭûwr: This word for "a row" is used to specify the orderly arrangement of the gemstones within their settings, as seen in the command for "four rows of stones" Exodus 28:17.
- H68 'eben: Meaning "a stone," this is the object placed into the "setting." In this context, it refers specifically to the precious gems chosen for the breastplate Exodus 28:17.
- H2091 zâhâb: This is the word for "gold," the precious metal used to create the "inclosings" for the gems Exodus 28:20.
The theological significance of H4396 is tied to its specific application in the construction of the priestly ephod.
- Divine Order and Precision: The term appears within God's highly detailed instructions for sacred worship. The use of "settings" for "four rows of stones" demonstrates a divine emphasis on order, structure, and meticulous craftsmanship in holy objects Exodus 28:17.
- Preservation of Value: An "inclosing" serves to secure and display something of great worth. By setting the stones in "gold" Exodus 28:20, the design highlights the value and permanence of what the gems represent.
- Integral to Priestly Function: The "settings" are a critical component of the breastplate, which was worn by the high priest. This directly connects the word to the priest's role as a representative of the people before God, bearing the names of the tribes on the stones held by these very settings.
In summary, H4396 is a precise term for the settings that hold gems. Its biblical usage is confined to the creation of the high priest's breastplate, making it a word of sacred craftsmanship rather than common use. It illustrates a concept where divine command, structural order, and precious materials come together to create an object central to Israel's worship and the office of the high priest.
TRV