### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **meltâchâh**, represented by `{{H4458}}`, refers to a **wardrobe** or **vestry**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. The word derives from an unused root meaning to spread out, indicating a place where clothing is spread or stored.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{H4458}}` is found in a dramatic moment of judgment against pagan worship. In [[2 Kings 10:22]], Jehu commands the individual in charge of the **vestry** to bring forth vestments for all the worshippers of Baal. The **vestry** is thus identified as a specific room containing the ceremonial garments required for the rites of a false deity, highlighting the organized nature of this idolatrous cult within Israel.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its sole context illuminate its function:
* `{{H1168}}` **Baʻal**: This term refers to a **Phoenician deity**. The vestry `{{H4458}}` was used exclusively to store garments for the worshippers of **Baal**, the focus of the religious purge described in 2 Kings [[2 Kings 10:22]].
* `{{H3830}}` **lᵉbûwsh**: Meaning a **garment** or **vestment**. These are the items stored within the **meltâchâh**. The command was given to bring them out of the vestry to identify the idolaters.
* `{{H4403}}` **malbûwsh**: Also meaning **raiment** or **vestment**. The narrative uses both `{{H3830}}` and `{{H4403}}` to describe the clothing brought out from the vestry for the worshippers of Baal [[2 Kings 10:22]].
* `{{H5647}}` **ʻâbad**: This root word means **to work** or **to serve**. In this context, it identifies the individuals as **worshippers** of Baal, for whom the sacred garments were intended [[2 Kings 10:22]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H4458}}` is derived entirely from its unique and negative context.
* **Infrastructure of Idolatry:** The existence of a **vestry** demonstrates how deeply embedded the worship of **Baal** `{{H1168}}` had become, requiring dedicated facilities and specific apparel for its rituals.
* **Instrument of Judgment:** The command to "Bring forth" `{{H3318}}` the vestments from the **vestry** serves as a divine stratagem. The room and its contents become the means of identifying Baal's followers for their subsequent destruction [[2 Kings 10:22]].
* **Symbol of False Religion:** Unlike places associated with the worship of the LORD, the **meltâchâh** is exclusively linked to the paraphernalia of apostasy. It represents the formal, organized practices that God sought to purge from His people.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4458}}` is a highly specific term for a wardrobe or vestry whose biblical meaning is inseparable from its singular appearance. It does not refer to a general storage place but to the specific vestry holding the ceremonial garments for the worshippers of Baal. Its importance lies in illustrating the organized nature of idolatry in ancient Israel and its role within the biblical narrative as a key element in the divine judgment carried out by Jehu.
TRV