### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **millôwʼ**, represented by `{{H4407}}`, refers to a **rampart** or **citadel**, often translated simply as **Millo**. The term comes from a root meaning "to fill in." It appears 10 times across 9 unique verses in the Bible, consistently denoting a significant structure or fortification.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, **Millo** `{{H4407}}` is primarily featured as a key component of major royal construction and fortification projects. King David is recorded as having **built** round about from **Millo** inward after capturing the fort of Zion [[2 Samuel 5:9]]. Later, King Solomon's extensive building activities included the construction of **Millo** ([[1 Kings 9:15]], [[1 Kings 9:24]]), a project so significant that it was cited as a cause for later strife [[1 Kings 11:27]]. Centuries later, King Hezekiah **repaired** **Millo** as part of his efforts to strengthen Jerusalem's defenses [[2 Chronicles 32:5]]. The term also appears in connection with the "house of **Millo**" in Shechem, whose people were involved in making Abimelech king [[Judges 9:6]] and were later cursed [[Judges 9:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the function and context of **Millo** `{{H4407}}` as a constructed defense:
* `{{H1129}}` **bânâh** (to build): This verb is repeatedly used to describe the construction of **Millo**. David **built** from **Millo** [[2 Samuel 5:9]], Solomon **built** it as part of his major projects [[1 Kings 9:15]], and Hezekiah **built up** the wall when he repaired it [[2 Chronicles 32:5]].
* `{{H2346}}` **chôwmâh** (a wall of protection): **Millo** is frequently mentioned in conjunction with the city **wall**. Solomon's levy was for building the house of the LORD, his own house, **Millo**, and the **wall** of Jerusalem [[1 Kings 9:15]].
* `{{H2388}}` **châzaq** (to strengthen, repair, fortify): This word highlights the defensive purpose of **Millo**. Hezekiah **strengthened** himself and **repaired** **Millo** to fortify the city [[2 Chronicles 32:5]].
* `{{H6556}}` **perets** (a break, breach, gap): The construction of **Millo** was sometimes a direct response to vulnerabilities. Solomon **built** **Millo** and **repaired** the **breaches** of the city of David [[1 Kings 11:27]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of **Millo** `{{H4407}}` is tied to the physical establishment and security of the Israelite kingdom.
* **Royal Fortification and Responsibility:** The building and repairing of **Millo** was a significant act of kingship. It was a primary project for Solomon [[1 Kings 9:15]] and a key defensive repair for Hezekiah [[2 Chronicles 32:5]], demonstrating a monarch's duty to fortify the capital.
* **Symbol of the City of David:** **Millo** was an integral part of Jerusalem's identity. David began building from **Millo** when he established his city [[2 Samuel 5:9]], and later work on it was described as repairing the "breaches of the city of David" [[1 Kings 11:27]].
* **A Site of Conflict and Judgment:** The structure was also a focal point for internal conflict. Solomon's building project on **Millo** was a cause for rebellion [[1 Kings 11:27]]. The "house of **Millo**" was involved in a conspiracy to make Abimelech king [[Judges 9:6]] and was the location where King Joash was slain by his own servants [[2 Kings 12:20]].
### Summary
In summary, **millôwʼ** `{{H4407}}` is more than just a place name; it represents a critical piece of military and civil infrastructure in ancient Israel. As a rampart or citadel, its construction and repair by kings like David, Solomon, and Hezekiah signified royal power and the strategic defense of Jerusalem. It stands as a testament to the physical efforts required to build and secure the kingdom, while also serving as a backdrop for significant political and historical events.
TRV