### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **miçgereth**, represented by `{{H4526}}`, means "something enclosing." It appears 17 times in 14 unique verses and is used to describe a margin, border, stronghold, or close place. The word conveys a sense of being enclosed, whether for decorative structure or for confinement.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In Scripture, `{{H4526}}` is used in two primary ways. Architecturally, it describes the decorative and structural components of the tabernacle and temple furnishings. It is the **border** of an hand breadth made for the holy table of showbread [[Exodus 25:25]]. On the ten bases in Solomon's temple, these **borders** were ornately decorated with graven images of lions `{{H738}}`, oxen `{{H1241}}`, and cherubims `{{H3742}}` [[1 Kings 7:29]]. Figuratively, `{{H4526}}` refers to a stronghold or "close place" from which enemies come out in fear. Strangers are depicted as being afraid and moving from their **close places** [[2 Samuel 22:46]], and enemies of the LORD `{{H3068}}` are said to move from their **holes** like worms of the earth `{{H776}}` [[Micah 7:17]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which `{{H4526}}` is used:
* `{{H4350}}` **mᵉkôwnâh** (a pedestal, also a spot; base): This word is directly linked to `{{H4526}}` in the construction of the temple. The "borders" were a key feature of the ten "bases" made for the lavers [[1 Kings 7:28]], which King Ahaz later cut off [[2 Kings 16:17]].
* `{{H7979}}` **shulchân** (a table (as spread out); by implication, a meal): The **border** `{{H4526}}` was a specific component of the holy **table** of showbread, and the rings `{{H2885}}` for the staves were placed over against this border to carry the table [[Exodus 25:27]].
* `{{H2213}}` **zêr** (a chaplet (as spread around the top), i.e. (specifically) a border moulding; crown): A golden **crown** was made for the **border** `{{H4526}}` of the table of showbread, emphasizing its ornamental and sacred function ([[Exodus 25:25]], [[Exodus 37:12]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H4526}}` is twofold, reflecting its different applications.
* **Divine Order and Beauty:** In its architectural use, the **border** signifies God's meticulous attention to detail and structure in sacred worship. The specific instructions for the **border** on the table [[Exodus 25:25]] and bases [[1 Kings 7:28]] establish a framework of ordained beauty, separating and sanctifying the objects used in His service.
* **Constriction and Fear of Judgment:** As a "close place" or "hole," `{{H4526}}` symbolizes the futile strongholds of God's enemies. These places do not offer true security; instead, they are places of confinement from which strangers will "fade away" and "be afraid" [[Psalms 18:45]]. It illustrates that no fortress can protect from the fear of the LORD `{{H3068}}` [[Micah 7:17]].
### Summary
In summary, **miçgereth** `{{H4526}}` is a word that encompasses both divine design and divine judgment. As a **border**, it defines the sacred space and beauty of objects consecrated to God. As a **close place**, it represents the constricted and fearful end of those who oppose Him. The word shows how a single concept of "enclosure" can be applied to both the intricate beauty of holiness and the inescapable reality of judgment.
TRV