### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **maʻăreketh**, represented by `{{H4635}}`, refers to **an arrangement, i.e. (concretely) a pile (of loaves); row, shewbread**. It appears **9 times** across **9 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from a root meaning "to arrange," this word is specifically used to describe the orderly presentation of sacred items, most notably the shewbread in the tabernacle and temple.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical practice, `{{H4635}}` is central to the regulations for the shewbread, or "bread of the presence." The term specifies the precise layout of the loaves on the holy table. For example, the priests were commanded to set the bread in two arrays, with "six on a **row**" `{{H4635}}` upon the pure table before the LORD [[Leviticus 24:6]]. This arrangement was not merely for storage but was a vital part of the sanctuary service, listed among the continual offerings for the house of God [[Nehemiah 10:33]]. The significance of the object is emphasized when Hezekiah cleanses the temple, restoring "the shewbread `{{H4635}}` table, with all the vessels thereof" [[2 Chronicles 29:18]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller picture of the context surrounding `{{H4635}}`:
* `{{H4634}}` **maʻărâkâh** (an arrangement; concretely, a pile; specifically a military array; army, fight, be set in order, ordered place, rank, row): This direct variant is used in the same context to describe the "two **rows**" of bread, highlighting the theme of deliberate and orderly arrangement [[Leviticus 24:6]].
* `{{H3899}}` **lechem** ((shew-) bread, [idiom] eat, food, fruit, loaf, meat, victuals): This is the bread that is placed in the arrangement. `{{H4635}}` is often used in a compound phrase with `{{H3899}}` to refer to the "shewbread," which the sons of the Kohathites were designated to **prepare** `{{H3559}}` every sabbath [[1 Chronicles 9:32]].
* `{{H7979}}` **shulchân** (a table (as spread out); by implication, a meal; table): This is the sacred furniture upon which the arrangement of bread was placed. The plans for the temple included specific provisions of gold for the "tables of **shewbread**" `{{H4635}}` [[1 Chronicles 28:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4635}}` is tied to the principles of order, remembrance, and worship.
* **Divine Order:** The requirement for a specific **row** `{{H4635}}` or pile demonstrates that worship must be conducted according to God's precise instructions. The arrangement was to be set upon the "pure table before the LORD" [[Leviticus 24:6]], signifying that holiness and order are inseparable in His presence.
* **Continual Remembrance:** This arrangement was part of the "continual **shewbread**" `{{H4635}}` offering [[2 Chronicles 2:4]]. Pure frankincense was placed upon each **row** `{{H4635}}` to be a "memorial" `{{H234}}` and "an offering made by fire" `{{H801}}` to the Lord, representing Israel's constant fellowship with and dependence on God [[Leviticus 24:7]].
* **Essential Worship Component:** The **shewbread** `{{H4635}}` is consistently listed with other core elements of Israel's worship, such as burnt offerings, meat offerings, and offerings for solemn feasts ([[Nehemiah 10:33]], [[2 Chronicles 2:4]]). This places the act of arranging the bread as a foundational duty for maintaining covenantal atonement and the work of God's house.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4635}}` is more than a simple word for a pile or row. It defines a sacred and orderly presentation at the heart of tabernacle worship. As the term for the arrangement of the shewbread, it embodies the theological concepts of divine order, continual remembrance before God, and the faithful execution of prescribed worship. It illustrates how a physical arrangement can carry profound spiritual significance as an act of obedience and reverence.
TRV