from the same as קַר; a cooling off; [idiom] summer.
Transliteration:mᵉqêrâh
Pronunciation:mek-ay-raw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term mᵉqêrâh (`{{H4747}}`) stems from the root קַר (qar), which fundamentally signifies "cold" or "cool" (cf. `{{H7119}}`). The base definition of mᵉqêrâh points to "a cooling off." While it can idiomatically refer to "summer," this usage is nuanced. Given its derivation, it suggests a period or condition characterized by a relative coolness, or a state of relief from intense heat. This implies not merely the season of summer in its entirety, but specifically the refreshing or cooling aspect associated with it, perhaps in contrast to the peak midday heat or the parched conditions of the land. It encapsulates the idea of a welcome respite from warmth.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word mᵉqêrâh (`{{H4747}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, providing a singular yet profound context for its meaning.
* [[Proverbs 25:13]]: "Like the coolness of snow in the time of harvest, so is a faithful messenger to those who send him; he refreshes the soul of his masters."
In this proverb, mᵉqêrâh is directly associated with "snow" (`{{H7949}}`, sheleg) and placed within the "time of harvest" (`{{H7105}}`, qatsir). Harvest in ancient Israel typically occurred during the late spring and early summer, a period of increasing heat and arduous labor. The image of "the coolness of snow" during such a time would be profoundly refreshing and invigorating. This verse vividly illustrates mᵉqêrâh as a source of vital relief and invigoration amidst demanding conditions. It is not merely "summer" as a season, but the specific, life-giving *quality* of coolness that mᵉqêrâh conveys, serving as a powerful metaphor for the refreshing and trustworthy service of a messenger.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic connection for mᵉqêrâh (`{{H4747}}`) is its root, קַר (qar, `{{H7119}}`), meaning "cold" or "cool." This root emphasizes the core semantic range of temperature and sensation. Other related concepts and words that illuminate mᵉqêrâh include:
* `{{H7105}}` (qatsir): "Harvest," directly linked in [[Proverbs 25:13]], establishing the specific seasonal context where this coolness is most appreciated.
* `{{H7949}}` (sheleg): "Snow," also directly linked, providing the source of the refreshing coolness.
* `{{H5324}}` (ne'eman): "Faithful, trustworthy," describing the messenger in [[Proverbs 25:13]], whose reliability is likened to the physical refreshment provided by mᵉqêrâh.
* Concepts of refreshment, relief, and invigoration are central, contrasting with the toil and heat often associated with the harvest season. The word highlights the value of something unexpected and beneficial that alleviates hardship.
### Theological Significance
The singular usage of mᵉqêrâh in [[Proverbs 25:13]] carries significant theological weight.
1. **Divine Provision and Refreshment:** The image of snow's coolness during harvest speaks to God's providential care, providing unexpected relief and sustenance even in the midst of strenuous labor. It illustrates how God can bring comfort and renewal through both natural means and human instruments.
2. **The Value of Faithfulness:** The proverb elevates the faithful messenger to a status comparable to this life-giving coolness. Theologically, this underscores the immense value God places on integrity, reliability, and diligent service in human relationships, particularly in communication and representation. A faithful person, by their very character and actions, can be a source of spiritual and emotional refreshment to others, reflecting a divine attribute of trustworthiness.
3. **Wisdom and Practical Theology:** As part of the wisdom literature, mᵉqêrâh serves as a tangible metaphor to convey profound moral and spiritual truths. It teaches that righteous living and faithful service are not merely abstract ideals but have concrete, beneficial impacts, bringing refreshment and vitality to those who receive them. This reflects a practical theology where ethical conduct is seen as a conduit for blessing.
### Summary
The Hebrew word mᵉqêrâh (`{{H4747}}`), derived from the root קַר (`{{H7119}}`) meaning "cold" or "cool," primarily denotes "a cooling off" or "coolness," extending idiomatically to "summer" in a nuanced sense. Its sole biblical occurrence in [[Proverbs 25:13]] vividly portrays it as "the coolness of snow" during the arduous "harvest time" (`{{H7105}}`). This imagery serves as a powerful metaphor for the vital refreshment and invigoration that a "faithful messenger" (`{{H5324}}`) brings to their masters. Theologically, mᵉqêrâh highlights God's design in nature to provide comfort and sustenance, underscores the profound value of integrity and reliability in human interaction, and exemplifies wisdom literature's method of teaching moral truths through tangible natural phenomena. It speaks to the divine blessing of refreshment and the life-giving impact of faithfulness in both the natural and human spheres.
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