### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **miçtôwr**, represented by `{{H4563}}`, is defined as a **refuge** or **covert**. It is derived from the root word סָתַר. This specific term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, making its context particularly significant for understanding its meaning.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{H4563}}` is in [[Isaiah 4:6]], where it contributes to a vivid picture of divine protection. The verse promises that a "tabernacle" will serve not only as a shadow from heat but also "for a place of refuge, and for a **covert** from storm and from rain." In this context, **miçtôwr** functions as a specific type of shelter, one that shields from the harsh elements of "storm" `{{H2230}}` and "rain" `{{H4306}}`. It is presented alongside other terms of safety like "tabernacle" `{{H5521}}`, "shadow" `{{H6738}}`, and "refuge" `{{H4268}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words found in the surrounding text help to clarify the concept of shelter and the dangers from which it is needed:
* `{{H4268}}` **machăçeh** (a shelter (literally or figuratively); hope, (place of) refuge, shelter, trust): This word is often used to describe God as a source of safety. In [[Isaiah 25:4]], God is described as "a **refuge** from the storm, a shadow from the heat."
* `{{H5521}}` **çukkâh** (a hut or lair; booth, cottage, covert, pavilion, tabernacle, tent): This term can describe a temporary or humble dwelling, as seen in [[Isaiah 1:8]], which depicts the daughter of Zion being left like a lonely "**cottage** in a vineyard."
* `{{H6738}}` **tsêl** (shade, whether literal or figurative; defence, shade(-ow)): This word often carries a figurative meaning of divine protection. For instance, [[Psalms 91:1]] states that one who dwells in God's secret place "shall abide under the **shadow** of the Almighty."
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4563}}` is derived entirely from its singular, powerful use in prophecy.
* **Divine Provision:** The "covert" is not a man-made structure but part of a divine provision promised in a time of restoration, illustrating God's role as the ultimate protector for His people [[Isaiah 4:6]].
* **Shelter from Overwhelming Forces:** It specifically offers safety from the "storm" `{{H2230}}` and "rain" `{{H4306}}`. The term for storm, **zerem**, is also used to describe the "blast of the terrible ones" [[Isaiah 25:4]], suggesting the protection of the **covert** extends beyond literal weather to hostile or destructive forces.
* **A Component of Sanctuary:** Its placement within the description of a "tabernacle" `{{H5521}}` in [[Isaiah 4:6]] elevates its meaning from a simple hiding place to an element of a sacred space of divine presence and security.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4563}}` is a rare but potent term for a **covert** or **refuge**. Its sole biblical appearance in [[Isaiah 4:6]] defines it as an aspect of God's complete and promised protection. Though used only once, its association with terms like "tabernacle" and "refuge" firmly establishes its meaning as a shelter provided by God against life's fiercest storms.
TRV