or מִקְּדָשׁ; (Exodus 15:17), from קָדַשׁ; a consecrated thing or place, especially, a palace, sanctuary (whether of Jehovah or of idols) or asylum; chapel, hallowed part, holy place, sanctuary.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **miqdâsh**, represented by `{{H4720}}`, designates a **consecrated thing or place**, most often translated as **sanctuary** or **holy place**. It is derived from the root `qâdash` `{{H6942}}`, which means to be holy or to sanctify. Appearing **74 times** in **71 unique verses**, the term is central to understanding the sacred spaces dedicated to the worship of `{{H3068}}` or, in some cases, idols.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4720}}` is primarily the designated location for God's presence among His people. God commands Israel, "let them make me a **sanctuary**; that I may dwell among them" [[Exodus 25:8]]. This sacred space required reverence [[Leviticus 19:30]] and was the focal point of worship and priestly ministry [[Ezekiel 44:15]]. However, the **sanctuary** could be profaned through disobedience and idolatry. God warns that He will profane His **sanctuary** in response to the people's abominations [[Ezekiel 24:21]], and judgment is depicted as beginning at this holy place [[Ezekiel 9:6]]. Ultimately, God promises to restore His presence by setting His **sanctuary** in the midst of His people forever as part of an everlasting covenant of peace [[Ezekiel 37:26]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the concept of sacred space:
* `{{H6942}}` **qâdash** (to be... holy... sanctify): This root verb establishes the very action that creates a **sanctuary**. It is what makes a place or object set apart for God [[2 Chronicles 30:8]].
* `{{H6944}}` **qôdesh** (a sacred place or thing... holiness, sanctuary): This noun is often used to describe the character of the **sanctuary** itself, as seen in the phrase "holy **sanctuary**" [[Leviticus 16:33]], and refers to the holy things within it [[1 Chronicles 22:19]].
* `{{H1004}}` **bayith** (a house... temple): The **sanctuary** is frequently located within the **house** of the LORD, representing the specific sacred center within the larger temple structure [[Jeremiah 51:51]].
* `{{H2490}}` **châlal** (to profane, defile): This word represents the opposite of sanctification and is a key action taken against the **sanctuary**. The defilement of the **sanctuary** is a grave offense that brings judgment ([[Ezekiel 5:11]], [[Ezekiel 23:39]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4720}}` is significant, touching on core aspects of God's relationship with Israel.
* **Divine Presence:** The fundamental purpose of the **sanctuary** was to be the place where God would dwell with His people, a tangible sign of His presence established from the time of the Exodus [[Exodus 25:8]].
* **Holiness and Reverence:** The **sanctuary** demanded strict purity. It could be defiled by sin [[Ezekiel 5:11]], and specific laws governed who could enter and minister there to avoid profaning it ([[Leviticus 21:12]], [[Ezekiel 44:9]]).
* **Atonement and Ministry:** It was the designated location for priestly service, including the offering of sacrifices of **fat** `{{H2459}}` and **blood** `{{H1818}}` to make atonement for the people ([[Leviticus 16:33]], [[Ezekiel 44:15]]).
* **Covenantal Symbol:** The establishment of the **sanctuary** was part of God's covenant with Israel. Its desecration symbolized a broken covenant [[Ezekiel 44:7]], while its future restoration signified God's everlasting promise to His people [[Ezekiel 37:26-28]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4720}}` is far more than a physical building. It is a consecrated space that embodies the relationship between God and humanity. It signifies the possibility of divine presence, the absolute requirement for holiness, the grave consequences of desecration, and the enduring hope of restoration. The term extends from the earthly **tabernacle** `{{H4908}}` and temple to the very person of God, who can serve as a "little **sanctuary**" for His people in exile [[Ezekiel 11:16]], making it a cornerstone concept of sacredness in scripture.
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