### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **miqqâch**, represented by `{{H4727}}`, means **reception** or **taking**. It appears only 1 time across 1 unique verse in the Bible, highlighting a very specific application of the term. Derived from the root for 'to take', it specifically refers to the act of accepting something, particularly in a context of judgment or influence.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{H4727}}` is found in a command regarding justice and integrity. In [[2 Chronicles 19:7]], Jehoshaphat instructs judges to act carefully, reminding them that with God there is no iniquity, partiality, or the **taking** of gifts. This places the word at the center of a warning against judicial corruption, defining it as an act contrary to God's nature.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its sole context illuminate its meaning:
* `{{H7810}}` **shachad** (a donation (venal or redemptive); bribe(-ry), gift, present, reward): This is the object being received in [[2 Chronicles 19:7]]. The concept of a corrupting **gift** is frequently condemned, as it blinds the wise and perverts judgment [[Deuteronomy 16:19]].
* `{{H5766}}` **ʻevel** ((moral) evil; iniquity, perverseness, unjust(-ly), unrighteousness(-ly); wicked(-ness)): The act of **taking** bribes is set in direct opposition to God's character, who is "without **iniquity**" [[Deuteronomy 32:4]]. The warning in [[2 Chronicles 19:7]] establishes that such actions are a form of **iniquity**.
* `{{H4856}}` **massôʼ** (from נָשָׂא; partiality (as a lifting up); respect): Paired with `{{H4727}}` in [[2 Chronicles 19:7]], this word refers to showing partiality. God's justice is defined by an absence of both **respect** of persons and the taking of gifts.
* `{{H8104}}` **shâmar** (properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e. guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc.; beward, be circumspect, take heed (to self), keep(-er, self), mark, look narrowly, observe, preserve, regard, reserve, save (self), sure, (that lay) wait (for), watch(-man)): This command to **take heed** precedes the warning against the **taking** of gifts, emphasizing the need for vigilance in maintaining judicial purity [[2 Chronicles 19:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4727}}` is tied directly to the nature of divine justice.
* **Standard of Divine Justice:** The prohibition against the **taking** of gifts is rooted in the very character of God. Scripture declares there is no **iniquity** `{{H5766}}` with the LORD, nor **respect** `{{H4856}}` of persons, making this the foundation for all human judgment [[2 Chronicles 19:7]].
* **Corruption of Integrity:** The act of **taking** `{{H4727}}` a **gift** `{{H7810}}` is presented as a direct path to injustice. It is an action that perverts righteousness and is condemned alongside showing partiality and committing **iniquity** [[2 Chronicles 19:7]].
* **A Call to Vigilance:** The context couples the warning with a command to **take heed** `{{H8104}}` and **do** `{{H6213}}` what is right. This implies that avoiding the **taking** of bribes requires active, conscious effort and obedience to God's law [[Joshua 1:8]].
### Summary
In summary, while **miqqâch** `{{H4727}}` is a rare word, its singular appearance carries significant weight. It defines a specific act of corruption—the **taking** of a bribe—that stands in stark contrast to the perfect justice of God. Its placement in scripture serves as a powerful reminder that true righteousness requires impartiality and a refusal to be swayed by gifts, reflecting the very nature of God himself.
TRV