### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mâlâch**, represented by `{{H4418}}`, is a specific term for a **rotten rag** or an old garment. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Both instances occur in the same narrative, where it describes discarded pieces of cloth used in a significant act of rescue.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The use of `{{H4418}}` is confined to the account of Jeremiah's deliverance from a dungeon `{{H953}}`. Ebed-melech `{{H5663}}` the Ethiopian `{{H3569}}` went to the king's `{{H4428}}` house `{{H1004}}` and from under the treasury `{{H214}}` took old cast clouts and **rotten rags** [[Jeremiah 38:11]]. He then let them down by cords `{{H2256}}` to the prophet Jeremiah `{{H3414}}`, instructing him to place the rags under his armholes `{{H679}}` for protection from the ropes during the rescue [[Jeremiah 38:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the use of these rotten rags:
* `{{H1094}}` **bᵉlôwʼ** (old): This word, defined as "rags; old," is used directly alongside `{{H4418}}` to emphasize the worn-out state of the cloths taken from the king's house [[Jeremiah 38:11]].
* `{{H5499}}` **çᵉchâbâh** (cast clout): Meaning "a rag; cast clout," this term appears in tandem with `{{H4418}}`, forming the pair "old **cast clouts** and old rotten rags" [[Jeremiah 38:11]]. This reinforces the idea of using discarded materials.
* `{{H2256}}` **chebel** (cord): This word for a rope or cord is what necessitated the use of the rags. The **rotten rags** were used to cushion Jeremiah from the **cords** used to pull him from the dungeon [[Jeremiah 38:12]].
* `{{H953}}` **bôwr** (dungeon): This word identifies the setting from which Jeremiah was rescued. The rags were let down into the **dungeon**, a pit or cistern, highlighting their role in a life-saving deliverance [[Jeremiah 38:11]].
### Theological Significance
Although a simple noun, the context of `{{H4418}}` carries significant weight, illustrating several themes:
* **Providence in the Discarded:** The **rotten rags** were taken from "under the treasury" `{{H214}}` in the king's house `{{H1004}}`, a place of forgotten and worthless things. Their use in saving a prophet's life demonstrates how God can utilize the most humble items for His purposes [[Jeremiah 38:11]].
* **A Symbol of Compassion:** The act of providing these `{{H4418}}` rags was one of great care by Ebed-melech `{{H5663}}`. He went beyond simple rescue by ensuring Jeremiah's physical comfort and safety, with the rags serving as a tangible expression of this compassion [[Jeremiah 38:12]].
* **The Value of the Worthless:** In this narrative, decayed and forgotten cloths become instruments of deliverance. This act underscores a recurring biblical principle where what is considered lowly is chosen for a vital role in God's plan.
### Summary
In summary, **mâlâch** `{{H4418}}` is more than just a word for a **rotten rag**. Its specific and focused use in the book of Jeremiah transforms it into a powerful symbol of divine providence and human compassion. It vividly illustrates that in God's economy, no instrument is too humble or degraded to be used for the preservation of life and the fulfillment of His will.
TRV