### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mᵉlîylâh**, represented by `{{H4425}}`, specifically means **a head of grain (as cut off)** or **ear**. Derived from a root word implying cropping, its meaning is tied to the act of being cut. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, highlighting its very specific application within the law.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H4425}}` is found in a law described in [[Deuteronomy 23:25]]. This passage outlines what is permissible when a person comes `{{H935}}` into the standing corn `{{H7054}}` of a neighbour `{{H7453}}`. The law states that one may "pluck `{{H6998}}` the **ears** `{{H4425}}` with thine hand `{{H3027}}`." However, it sets a clear limit by forbidding the use of a tool for a larger harvest, stating, "thou shalt not move `{{H5130}}` a sickle `{{H2770}}` unto thy neighbour's `{{H7453}}` standing corn `{{H7054}}`."
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context clarify the meaning of `{{H4425}}`:
* `{{H6998}}` **qâṭaph** (to strip off; crop off, cut down (up), pluck): This is the specific action allowed to be taken upon the **ears** of grain. It describes a limited, manual action rather than a full harvest [[Deuteronomy 23:25]].
* `{{H7054}}` **qâmâh** (something that rises, i.e. a stalk of grain; (standing) corn, grown up, stalk): This refers to the entire plant from which the **mᵉlîylâh** is taken. It is the object of the harvest, whether by hand or sickle [[Deuteronomy 16:9]].
* `{{H3027}}` **yâd** (a hand): The law explicitly permits plucking the **ears** by hand, emphasizing a small-scale, personal act. This contrasts with the use of a tool for harvesting.
* `{{H2770}}` **chermêsh** (a sickle): This harvesting tool is expressly forbidden in this context [[Deuteronomy 23:25]]. Its use would constitute taking from the neighbor's livelihood, rather than satisfying an immediate need.
* `{{H7453}}` **rêaʻ** (an associate... neighbour): This term defines the social setting. The law governs conduct between members of the community, balancing personal need with respect for a **neighbour's** property [[Leviticus 19:18]].
### Theological Significance
The principle behind the usage of `{{H4425}}` is significant, despite its rarity.
* **Provision within the Law:** Its appearance in [[Deuteronomy 23:25]] establishes a legal provision for the hungry. It allows a person to satisfy their immediate need from a neighbor's field without being considered a thief.
* **Defining Boundaries:** The law creates a sharp distinction between satisfying hunger and stealing. Plucking **ears** `{{H4425}}` by hand is permitted, but using a sickle `{{H2770}}`—an act of harvesting—is prohibited. This protects the owner's crop.
* **The Nature of the Object:** The word **mᵉlîylâh** itself, defined as a "head of grain (as cut off)," reinforces the limited nature of the act. It refers to the small, pluckable part of the stalk, not the entire field of standing corn `{{H7054}}`.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4425}}` **mᵉlîylâh** is a precise term for an ear of grain. Its single biblical appearance in [[Deuteronomy 23:25]] is crucial for a law that balances compassion with the protection of property. The word encapsulates the specific and limited provision made for a hungry person within their community, distinguishing between taking a handful for sustenance and the unlawful act of harvesting a neighbour's field.
TRV