### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **meleṭ**, represented by `{{H4423}}`, is a specific term for **clay** or cement. Derived from a root meaning plastic smoothness, it appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, making its sole appearance highly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{H4423}}` is found in a dramatic prophetic act. In [[Jeremiah 43:9]], the prophet Jeremiah is commanded by God to **take** `{{H3947}}` great stones and **hide** `{{H2934}}` them in the **clay** at a brickkiln. This act was performed publicly, at the entrance of Pharaoh's house in Tahpanhes and in the sight of the men of Judah, serving as a powerful, non-verbal declaration whose meaning would be revealed by God.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context help illuminate the function of `{{H4423}}`:
* `{{H2934}}` **ṭâman** (to hide): This word describes the primary action involving the clay. The stones were intentionally concealed within the **clay**, making it a medium of secrecy for a divine purpose [[Jeremiah 43:9]].
* `{{H4404}}` **malbên** (brickkiln): This specifies the location where the **clay** was found. The setting of a brickkiln, a place of formation and intense heat, adds symbolic weight to Jeremiah's prophetic act [[Jeremiah 43:9]].
* `{{H68}}` **ʼeben** (a stone): These are the objects hidden within the **clay**. In scripture, stones often symbolize permanence, foundations, or judgment, and their concealment in the clay is central to the prophetic message [[Jeremiah 43:9]].
* `{{H8471}}` **Tachpanchêç** (Tahpanhes): The specific Egyptian city where the event occurs, grounding this symbolic act in a real-world location tied to the Jewish exiles [[Jeremiah 43:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H4423}}` is tied entirely to its singular, symbolic use.
* **A Medium for Prophecy:** The **clay** is not merely a building material but is elevated to become a crucial component of a prophetic sign, used to embed a message of future divine action at the very seat of Egyptian power [[Jeremiah 43:9]].
* **Symbol of Concealment and Future Revelation:** The function of the **clay** in this passage is to hide the great stones. This act of concealment points toward a hidden truth or a future judgment that God has set in place, to be revealed at the appointed time.
* **Tangible Sign of God's Sovereignty:** By embedding stones in the **clay** at the entrance to Pharaoh's house, Jeremiah performs a tangible act that asserts God's authority over foreign rulers and nations, demonstrating that His plans are set and unchangeable.
### Summary
In summary, while **meleṭ** `{{H4423}}` is an exceedingly rare word, its role is pivotal. It moves beyond its simple definition of **clay** to become an instrument in a profound prophetic demonstration. Its single appearance in [[Jeremiah 43:9]] illustrates how God can use common, earthly materials to convey unshakeable truths about His sovereignty and coming judgment.
TRV