### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mᵉtsullâh**, represented by `{{H4699}}`, is defined as **shade; bottom**. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in the entire Bible, which makes its single usage highly significant for understanding its meaning.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H4699}}` is in the prophetic vision of Zechariah. The prophet reports, "I saw{H7200} by night{H3915}, and behold a man{H376} riding{H7392} upon a red{H122} horse{H5483}, and he stood{H5975} among the myrtle trees{H1918} that were in the **bottom**{H4699}" [[Zechariah 1:8]]. In this context, it describes a low-lying place, a hollow or valley, where a heavenly messenger is seen standing among myrtle trees, accompanied by other horses.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words from its only context help illuminate the scene where `{{H4699}}` is found:
* `{{H1918}}` **hădaç** (myrtle tree): This word refers to the myrtle trees found in the **bottom**. The myrtle is also mentioned in prophecies of restoration and blessing [[Isaiah 55:13]].
* `{{H5975}}` **ʻâmad** (to stand): This verb describes the action of the man who **stood** among the myrtle trees. It is used to convey a sense of presence, stability, and readiness to act or report [[2 Chronicles 20:17]].
* `{{H3915}}` **layil** (night): This specifies the time of the vision. The **night** is often a setting for divine revelation, meditation, or visitation [[Psalms 17:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4699}}` is derived entirely from its singular, vivid context in Zechariah's vision.
* **A Place of Divine Revelation:** The **bottom** serves as the setting for a prophetic vision, indicating that God can reveal Himself and His purposes in low, humble, or obscure locations [[Zechariah 1:8]].
* **A Setting of Promise:** The man, a divine messenger, is positioned in the **bottom** among **myrtle trees** `{{H1918}}`, which elsewhere are a symbol of God's promise to restore and make the land fruitful [[Isaiah 41:19]].
* **A Point of Readiness:** The messenger **stood** `{{H5975}}` in this low place, a posture that precedes the report that the earth is at rest [[Zechariah 1:11]]. This suggests the "bottom" is a place of observation and waiting for divine timing.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H4699}}` is a term with very limited usage, its single appearance is rich with meaning. It designates the "bottom" or a low place, but more importantly, it frames it as a stage for divine encounter. The word is inseparable from the imagery of Zechariah's vision, where a heavenly being stands ready amidst symbols of promise, showing that God's presence and plans are revealed even in the valleys.
TRV