### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mâlaq**, represented by `{{H4454}}`, is a primitive root defined as **to crack a joint; by implication, to wring the neck of a fowl (without separating it); wring off.** It is a highly specific term, appearing only **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, exclusively within the context of sacrificial procedures.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The use of `{{H4454}}` is confined to the book of Leviticus and details a specific action performed by a priest `{{H3548}}`. In the procedure for a burnt offering, the priest is instructed to bring a bird to the altar and **wring off** its head, then burn it on the altar [[Leviticus 1:15]]. When used for a sin offering, the instruction is more precise: the priest shall **wring off** the bird's head from its neck, but importantly, "shall not divide it asunder" [[Leviticus 5:8]]. This highlights its role as a technical term within the legal and ritual framework of Israelite worship.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the ritual context in which `{{H4454}}` is used:
* `{{H3548}}` **kôhên** (priest): Defined as "literally one officiating, a priest," this is the individual commanded to perform the action of `{{H4454}}` as part of his sacred duties ([[Leviticus 1:15]], [[Leviticus 5:8]]).
* `{{H7126}}` **qârab** (to approach): This word, meaning "to approach (causatively, bring near) for whatever purpose," is used to describe bringing the offering to the altar where the ritual takes place ([[Leviticus 1:15]], [[Leviticus 5:8]]).
* `{{H4680}}` **mâtsâh** (to squeeze out): Meaning "to drain, to squeeze out," this action immediately follows `{{H4454}}` in the sacrificial process, where the blood of the bird is "wrung out" at the side of the altar [[Leviticus 1:15]].
* `{{H6999}}` **qâṭar** (to smoke): Meaning "to smoke, i.e. turn into fragrance by fire," this describes what is done with the bird's head after it has been wrung off [[Leviticus 1:15]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4454}}` is tied directly to the Old Testament sacrificial system.
* **Ritual Specificity:** The directive in [[Leviticus 5:8]] to **wring off** the head but "not divide it asunder" underscores the immense importance of exact adherence to divinely commanded procedures in worship and atonement.
* **The Priestly Role:** The action is exclusively performed by the **priest** `{{H3548}}`, reinforcing his unique function as the authorized mediator responsible for correctly carrying out the rites of worship as prescribed by the law ([[Leviticus 1:15]], [[Leviticus 5:8]]).
* **Atonement for Sin:** Its use is explicitly tied to the "sin offering" [[Leviticus 5:8]], connecting this specific and decisive act to the process required to make atonement for the people's sins.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4454}}` **mâlaq** is not a general term but a specific, technical word for a priestly, sacrificial action. Its limited use in scripture highlights the meticulous nature of the Levitical laws. The act of wringing the neck of a fowl, particularly as part of a sin offering, demonstrates the gravity and precision required in the Old Testament system of approaching a holy God.
TRV