### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **miqshâh**, represented by `{{H4749}}`, describes work that is moulded by hammering, often translated as **beaten work** or a **whole piece**. It denotes an object formed from a single, solid piece of material rather than being assembled from parts. This term appears 10 times across 9 unique verses, primarily in the context of crafting sacred objects.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4749}}` is used almost exclusively in the instructions for and construction of items for the Tabernacle. The golden candlestick, or menorah, is to be made of **beaten work** [[Exodus 25:31]], a specification repeated in its actual creation [[Exodus 37:17]] and later referenced as a key element of its design [[Numbers 8:4]]. Similarly, the two golden cherubim on the mercy seat were fashioned from **beaten work** ([[Exodus 25:18]], [[Exodus 37:7]]). The two silver trumpets were also to be made "of a **whole piece**" [[Numbers 10:2]]. In a contrasting use, Jeremiah describes idols as **upright** as a palm tree, using `{{H4749}}` to emphasize their rigid, lifeless form [[Jeremiah 10:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and context of `{{H4749}}`:
* `{{H2091}}` **zâhâb** (gold): This is the primary material from which the objects of "beaten work" were made, such as the candlestick and cherubim ([[Exodus 25:31]], [[Exodus 25:18]]). It signifies purity and great value.
* `{{H4501}}` **mᵉnôwrâh** (candlestick): This is the most prominent object described as `{{H4749}}`. The entire candlestick, including its shaft, branches, bowls, knops, and flowers, was to be a single piece of **beaten work** [[Exodus 37:17]].
* `{{H259}}` **ʼechâd** (one): This word is used alongside `{{H4749}}` to emphasize the absolute unity of the object. The candlestick is described as "**one** beaten work of pure gold," highlighting that all its intricate parts were formed from a single, seamless piece ([[Exodus 25:36]], [[Exodus 37:22]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4749}}` centers on concepts of unity, divine instruction, and the nature of true worship.
* **Integral Unity:** The requirement that the candlestick and trumpets be made from a "whole piece" or "one beaten work" signifies integrity and indivisible wholeness in the objects dedicated to God's service ([[Numbers 10:2]], [[Exodus 25:36]]).
* **Divine Pattern:** The construction of the candlestick was not left to human creativity but was made of **beaten** gold "according unto the pattern which the LORD had shewed Moses" [[Numbers 8:4]]. This underscores that worship is to be conducted according to God's specific revelation.
* **Contrast with Idolatry:** The term's use in [[Jeremiah 10:5]] highlights the folly of idols. They are **upright** and solid, yet cannot move or speak. This contrasts sharply with the Tabernacle's objects, which, though inanimate, were part of a dynamic system of worship pointing to the living God.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4749}}` is a specific term that conveys more than just a manufacturing technique. It describes the creation of sacred items like the candlestick `{{H4501}}` and cherubim `{{H3742}}` as a single, unified whole, hammered from pure gold according to a divine pattern. This concept of integral wholeness stands in stark opposition to the rigid, powerless nature of idols, demonstrating how an object's origin and purpose define its spiritual significance.
TRV