### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mᵉqêrâh**, represented by `{{H4747}}`, is an idiomatic term for **summer**. Derived from a root meaning "a cooling off," it appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses**. It is used specifically to describe a room designed for relief from heat, illustrating a feature of royal architecture in the ancient world.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, both occurrences of `{{H4747}}` are found in the account of Ehud and King Eglon. The term first describes the "summer **parlour**" where the king was sitting by himself when Ehud came to deliver a "message from God" [[Judges 3:20]]. Later, the king's servants arrive and find the doors of the "summer **chamber**" locked, assuming he is resting within [[Judges 3:24]]. This context establishes the `mᵉqêrâh` as a private, secluded upper room used by royalty.
### Related Words & Concepts
The specific nature of the `mᵉqêrâh` is clarified by the words used alongside it:
* `{{H5944}}` **ʻălîyâh** (parlour): This term refers to something lofty, like a second-story room or a loft. It is used to describe Ehud's destination as a "summer **parlour**," indicating it was likely an upper chamber designed to catch cooling breezes [[Judges 3:20]].
* `{{H2315}}` **cheder** (chamber): This word denotes an inner or private apartment. Its use in the phrase "summer **chamber**" emphasizes the room's seclusion and role as a private retreat for the king [[Judges 3:24]].
### Theological Significance
The thematic weight of `{{H4747}}` comes entirely from its narrative context as the setting for a pivotal act of divine judgment.
* **A Setting for Judgment:** The "summer parlour" is the place where King Eglon's oppressive reign is brought to an end by Ehud's "message from God" [[Judges 3:20]]. The comfort and seclusion of the room stand in stark contrast to the violent judgment enacted within it.
* **The Illusion of Security:** The king retreats to this room "for himself alone," suggesting a place of safety and privacy [[Judges 3:20]]. However, the story demonstrates that no earthly chamber, no matter how secure, is beyond the reach of God's sovereign will.
* **Vulnerability of Earthly Power:** By being a place of rest, the `mᵉqêrâh` highlights the king's vulnerability. This contrasts with the use of a related word, `ʻălîyâh`, to describe God's impenetrable "chambers" in the heavens ([[Psalms 104:3]], [[Psalms 104:13]]), underscoring the difference between frail human authority and divine power.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4747}}` is a highly specific term, moving beyond a general notion of "summer" to denote a cool, private room. Though it appears only twice, its role in the book of Judges is significant. It functions as the stage for a dramatic story of assassination and liberation, transforming a simple architectural feature into a powerful symbol of the truth that no person or power is hidden from the judgment of God.
TRV