### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mᵉtsillâh**, represented by `{{H4698}}`, refers to a **bell** or a tinkler. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its meaning is derived from a root word signifying a tinkling sound. Though rare, its singular use in scripture gives it a specific and powerful prophetic meaning.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H4698}}` is in the prophecy of Zechariah. The verse describes a future day when even the most common items will be consecrated for divine service. It states that upon the **bells** of the horses there will be an inscription reading, "HOLINESS UNTO THE LORD" [[Zechariah 14:20]]. This usage elevates a mundane object, a **bell** on a horse, to a level of sanctity, indicating a time when all of life will be dedicated to God.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context in [[Zechariah 14:20]] illuminate the meaning of `{{H4698}}`:
* `{{H5483}}` **çûwç** (horse): The object to which the bell is attached. A **horse** often symbolized military strength and human power in scripture [[Proverbs 21:31]]. Its sanctification in this context represents the redemption of all aspects of creation for God's service.
* `{{H6944}}` **qôdesh** (holiness): This is the quality inscribed upon the bells. It means a **sacred place or thing** or sanctity. This word highlights the central theme of the verse: the extension of holiness beyond the temple into the everyday world.
* `{{H5518}}` **çîyr** (pot): Mentioned in the same verse, a common **pot** is elevated to the status of the sacred temple bowls. This parallels the consecration of the horse bells, reinforcing the idea that the distinction between the sacred and the common will be removed.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4698}}` is derived entirely from its unique prophetic context.
* **Pervasive Sanctity:** The primary theme is that in a future day, **holiness** `{{H6944}}` will permeate every part of life. Inscribing "HOLINESS UNTO THE **LORD**" `{{H3068}}` on horse **bells** signifies that nothing will be considered secular or profane.
* **Redemption of the Common:** The use of a **horse** `{{H5483}}`, often an instrument of war, as a bearer of this holy inscription suggests the transformation of worldly power and its dedication to God.
* **Elevation of the Mundane:** The prophecy explicitly states that common **pots** `{{H5518}}` in the LORD's house will become like the sacred **bowls** `{{H4219}}` before the **altar** `{{H4196}}`. This illustrates a coming reality where all things, great and small, serve a holy purpose [[Zechariah 14:20]].
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H4698}}` is a simple word for **bell**, its single biblical appearance carries significant theological meaning. It functions as a powerful symbol in Zechariah's prophecy, illustrating a future where the separation between the sacred and the secular is erased. The image of a simple **bell** on a horse being marked with **holiness** `{{H6944}}` encapsulates the promise of a world entirely consecrated to the **LORD** `{{H3068}}`.
TRV