from מָשַׁח, in the sense of expansion; outspread (i.e. with outstretched wings); anointed.
Transliteration:mimshach
Pronunciation:mim-shakh'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word מִמְשַׁח (mimshach, `{{H4473}}`) is derived from the root מָשַׁח (mashach, `{{H4886}}`), which fundamentally means "to anoint," "to smear," or "to spread a liquid." While the primary sense of the root points to consecration through anointing, the specific form מִמְשַׁח introduces a nuance of "expansion" or "outspread." This suggests an anointing that is associated with a covering or widespread presence, particularly in the context of wings. Thus, its semantic range is tightly focused on the idea of an "anointed one" whose role involves a "covering" or "outspreading" function. The Strong's definition explicitly merges these ideas, indicating an entity that is "anointed" and characterized by being "outspread (i.e. with outstretched wings)."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word מִמְשַׁח (mimshach, `{{H4473}}`) appears only once in the entire Hebrew Bible, in [[Ezekiel 28:14]]. This singular occurrence is found within a prophetic lament against the king of Tyre, which many scholars interpret as a veiled reference to a primordial angelic being, often identified with Satan. The verse reads: "You were the anointed cherub that covers, and I had set you so; you were on the holy mountain of God; you walked back and forth in the midst of fiery stones."
The phrase "כְּרוּב מִמְשַׁח הַסּוֹכֵךְ" (k'ruv mimshach hassokhekh) is crucial. Here, מִמְשַׁח (mimshach) modifies "cherub" (כְּרוּב, `{{H3742}}`), describing it as "anointed." The subsequent participle הַסּוֹכֵךְ (hassokhekh, from סָכַךְ, `{{H5526}}`, "to cover, overshadow") clarifies the specific nature of this anointing and the cherub's function. The cherub was "anointed" *for the purpose of covering* or *as a covering one*. This aligns perfectly with the "outspread (with outstretched wings)" aspect of the definition, as cherubim are consistently depicted with wings used for covering, particularly the ark of the covenant (e.g., [[Exodus 25:20]]) and the divine throne (e.g., [[Ezekiel 1:23]]). The anointing, therefore, signifies a divine appointment and consecration for this specific, exalted role of guardianship and proximity to God's holy presence. The context of a being on "the holy mountain of God" further underscores its elevated status and sacred charge before its fall.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the root מָשַׁח (mashach, `{{H4886}}`), from which מִמְשַׁח (mimshach, `{{H4473}}`) is derived. This root forms the basis for words like מָשִׁיחַ (mashiach, `{{H4899}}`), meaning "anointed one" or "Messiah," and מִשְׁחָה (mishchah, `{{H4888}}`), referring to "anointing oil" or "anointing." These terms are central to biblical theology, signifying consecration, divine appointment, and empowerment for specific roles (kings, priests, prophets).
Other related concepts include:
* **Cherub (כְּרוּב, `{{H3742}}`):** Celestial beings often associated with guarding sacred spaces (e.g., [[Genesis 3:24]], [[Ezekiel 10:1-22]]) and serving as the chariot-throne of God (e.g., [[Psalm 18:10]]). Their "covering" function is prominent.
* **Covering (סָכַךְ, `{{H5526}}`):** The verb used in [[Ezekiel 28:14]] to describe the cherub's action. This concept is vital, as it speaks to protection, overshadowing, and proximity to the divine.
* **Holiness and Divine Presence:** The cherub's placement on "the holy mountain of God" emphasizes its connection to the sacred realm and its role in mediating or guarding access to God's presence.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of מִמְשַׁח (mimshach, `{{H4473}}`) in [[Ezekiel 28:14]] carries profound theological weight, particularly if the "king of Tyre" is understood as a symbolic representation of Satan or a high-ranking angelic being.
1. **Original Exaltation and Divine Appointment:** The term "anointed cherub" highlights the high status and divine consecration of this being. It was not self-appointed but divinely chosen and set apart for a specific, important role—that of "covering" or guarding God's holy domain. This underscores the truth that even the most powerful created beings derive their authority and position from God.
2. **The Nature of Evil's Origin:** If this passage refers to Satan, it provides insight into the origin of evil. Evil did not originate from a lack of privilege or divine favor, but from pride and rebellion by a being who was originally "perfect in your ways from the day you were created" ([[Ezekiel 28:15]]). The "anointing" makes the fall even more tragic, as it represents a betrayal of a sacred trust.
3. **Contrast with the True Anointed One:** The "anointed cherub" stands in stark contrast to the ultimate "Anointed One," the Messiah (מָשִׁיחַ, `{{H4899}}`). While the cherub, despite its anointing, fell through sin, the Messiah, Jesus Christ, perfectly fulfilled His divine anointing through obedience and sacrifice, bringing redemption rather than ruin. This contrast underscores the difference between created glory and divine perfection.
4. **Responsibility of Divine Commission:** The passage implicitly teaches that divine appointment comes with immense responsibility. Even an "anointed cherub" is accountable for its actions, and its fall serves as a warning against pride and self-exaltation, especially for those entrusted with significant roles.
### Summary
The Hebrew word מִמְשַׁח (mimshach, `{{H4473}}`) is a unique term appearing only once in [[Ezekiel 28:14]]. Derived from the root "to anoint," it describes an entity that is "anointed" with a specific function of "covering" or "outspreading," particularly with reference to wings. In its sole biblical occurrence, it designates the "anointed cherub that covers," a being of immense original beauty, wisdom, and divine appointment, situated on God's holy mountain. This singular usage provides critical theological insight into the original exalted status of a powerful created being, often interpreted as Satan, whose subsequent fall highlights the devastating consequences of pride and rebellion against divine authority. It stands as a profound counterpoint to the perfect obedience and redemptive work of the true Messiah, the ultimate "Anointed One."
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