### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **maççâch**, represented by `{{H4535}}`, is used to describe a military barrier or cordon, often in the context of being **broken down**. It appears **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible, indicating its highly specific application.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H4535}}` is in a strategic command for the defense of the king's house. In [[2 Kings 11:6]], instructions are given to divide the guard into three parts, positioning them at key gates to maintain the watch. The purpose of this watch is explicitly stated: to prevent the house from being **broken down**, demonstrating the word's association with a defensive breach or the failure of a protective barrier.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in its single context help define the concept of a defensive barrier:
* `{{H8104}}` **shâmar** (to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e. guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc.): This word signifies the active protection intended to prevent a breach. In the Psalms, the security of a city depends on the LORD, who must **keep** it [[Psalms 127:1]].
* `{{H4931}}` **mishmereth** (watch, i.e. the act (custody), or (concretely) the sentry, the post; objectively preservation, or (concretely) safe; figuratively observance, i.e. (abstractly) duty or (objectively) a usage or party): This term refers to the duty or act of guarding. It is used both for the physical watch over a place and for the spiritual duty to keep God's **charge** [[1 Kings 2:3]].
* `{{H1004}}` **bayith** (a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)): This is the object being protected. The term extends from a physical dwelling to a family or dynasty, such as when David asks, "what is my **house**, that thou hast brought me hitherto?" [[2 Samuel 7:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4535}}` is derived from its specific use in preventing a disastrous outcome.
* **The Necessity of Vigilance:** The word's context emphasizes the critical importance of maintaining a guard. It is used in a plan to "keep the watch" `{{H4931}}` of the house, linking the physical act of guarding to the prevention of collapse [[2 Kings 11:6]].
* **The Fragility of the House:** `{{H4535}}` represents the consequence of a failed watch—a structure being "broken down." This points to a larger theme that human efforts to protect a sacred place or people are insufficient without divine help, as stated in the Psalms: "except the LORD keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain" [[Psalms 127:1]].
* **Integrity of the Sacred:** The object being protected is the "house" `{{H1004}}`, a term used for the house of the LORD and the covenant house of Israel [[Jeremiah 31:33]]. Therefore, preventing it from being "broken down" signifies preserving the integrity and sanctity of God's dwelling and His people.
### Summary
In summary, **maççâch** `{{H4535}}` is a highly specific term whose meaning is entirely shaped by its single appearance in scripture. It denotes a state of being "broken down," a military breach that a carefully organized defense is designed to prevent. While its application in [[2 Kings 11:6]] is tactical, it illustrates a broader biblical principle: the need for a vigilant watch over what is sacred. It serves as a stark reminder of the consequence of failure, highlighting the importance of the guard in maintaining the integrity of the house.
TRV