### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mᵉçukkâh**, represented by `{{H4540}}`, means **covering** or **garniture**. It is an exceedingly rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Derived from the root word meaning "to cover," its singular usage points to a specific and highly illustrative context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H4540}}` is in [[Ezekiel 28:13]], within a description of a being in "Eden the garden of God". The verse states, "every precious stone was thy **covering**," immediately followed by a list of gems including sardius, topaz, diamond, and beryl. This context explicitly defines `{{H4540}}` not as a simple covering for protection, but as a magnificent, jewel-encrusted garniture signifying immense beauty and value.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only context in [[Ezekiel 28:13]] illuminate the meaning of `{{H4540}}`:
* `{{H3368}}` **yâqâr** (valuable; precious): This word directly describes the stones that form the covering [[Ezekiel 28:13]]. It is used elsewhere to denote a "precious corner stone" [[Isaiah 28:16]] and things of excellence, highlighting the immense worth of the garniture.
* `{{H68}}` **'eben** (a stone): This is the physical material of the covering. Beyond its use for gems, this word is used metaphorically for a "stony heart" [[Ezekiel 36:26]] and foundationally as the "stone which the builders refused" [[Psalms 118:22]], showing its broad symbolic range.
* `{{H5731}}` **ʻÊden** (Eden, the region of Adam's home): This is the location where the being with the jeweled covering existed. Eden is consistently portrayed as a place of immense beauty and divine presence, described as "the garden of the LORD" [[Isaiah 51:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4540}}` is derived entirely from its singular, powerful context in [[Ezekiel 28:13]].
* **Created Glory:** The verse specifies that this magnificent covering was prepared on "the day that thou wast created." This highlights that the splendor and beauty symbolized by the covering were not inherent to the wearer but were bestowed by God `{{H430}}`.
* **Adornment for a Divine Setting:** The being is described as having been in "Eden the garden of God" [[Ezekiel 28:13]]. The covering, made of precious stones like sardius `{{H124}}`, topaz `{{H6357}}`, and sapphire `{{H5601}}`, is fitting for a high-status being within a place of divine perfection and holiness.
* **Symbol of High Value:** The use of "every precious stone" as a garniture signifies a position of immense value and honor. Many of these same stones, such as the onyx `{{H7718}}` and jasper `{{H3471}}`, are also designated for use in the priestly garments, connecting them to sacred function and proximity to God ([[Exodus 28:20]], [[Exodus 39:13]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4540}}` is much more than a generic word for a covering. It describes a unique, divinely crafted garniture of immense beauty and value. Its single appearance in Scripture serves to illustrate the bestowed splendor of a being in a state of perfection in Eden, the garden of God, and the preciousness of the materials God uses to adorn His creation.
TRV