### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **miqvâh**, represented by `{{H4724}}`, refers to a **collection, i.e. (of water) a reservoir; ditch**. It is a highly specific term, appearing just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its meaning is tied directly to the concept of a man-made channel or reservoir created to hold water.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H4724}}` is found in [[Isaiah 22:11]]. In this context, the people of Jerusalem constructed a **ditch** to manage the **water** `{{H4325}}` from an old **pool** `{{H1295}}` as a practical measure. However, the verse frames this act not as one of wise preparation, but as a failure of faith. They are rebuked because while they successfully **made** `{{H6213}}` the **ditch**, they did not look to or respect God, the ultimate maker who had fashioned all things long ago.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only context help to clarify its meaning:
* `{{H1295}}` **bᵉrêkâh** (a reservoir (at which camels kneel as a resting-place); (fish-) pool): This is the source of the water that the **ditch** `{{H4724}}` was meant to contain. The people redirected water from the "old **pool**" into their new construction [[Isaiah 22:11]]. This term often denotes significant waterworks within a city [[2 Kings 20:20]].
* `{{H4325}}` **mayim** (water): This is the essential substance that the **ditch** `{{H4724}}` was built to hold [[Isaiah 22:11]]. While crucial for physical life, **water** is also used in scripture as a symbol of God's spiritual blessing [[Isaiah 44:3]].
* `{{H6213}}` **ʻâsâh** (to do or make): This verb describes the action of creating the **ditch** [[Isaiah 22:11]]. The passage critically contrasts the people who "**made**" this structure with God, the true "**maker**" they ignored. This same word is used for God's divine act of creating the heaven and the earth [[Jeremiah 32:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4724}}` is derived entirely from its singular, powerful context:
* **Misplaced Reliance:** The **ditch** serves as a physical symbol of misplaced trust. The people focused on their own engineering and ability to "**make**" a solution, while failing to rely on God, the ultimate provider and protector [[Isaiah 22:11]].
* **Human Works vs. Divine Acknowledgment:** The creation of the **ditch** highlights the theme that human efforts, even when practical and necessary, are spiritually empty if they are not accompanied by acknowledgment of and respect for God.
* **A Monument to Faithlessness:** In its only biblical appearance, `{{H4724}}` is not a neutral term for a water channel but part of a prophetic rebuke. The **ditch** becomes a lasting illustration of a people who looked to their own hands for salvation rather than to their Creator [[Isaiah 22:11]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4724}}` is a term whose significance is defined by its solitary context. While literally a **ditch** or reservoir, it functions as a potent symbol of the conflict between human self-reliance and divine faith. It demonstrates how even a simple, man-made object can become a focal point for a profound theological lesson on the importance of looking to the Creator above the creation.
TRV