### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **markôleth**, represented by `{{H4819}}`, is a specific term for a **mart** or **merchandise**. Its usage is highly concentrated, as it appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. The word derives from the root `{{H7402}}`, `râkal`, which means to travel for trading, tying it directly to the commercial activities of a merchant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{H4819}}` occurs within the prophecy against the ancient city of Tyre in the book of Ezekiel. The passage lists a wide variety of valuable goods that passed through the city, which was a major hub of international commerce. The word is used to summarize the extensive inventory of the traders, describing how various fine textiles and crafted goods were "among thy **merchandise**" [[Ezekiel 27:24]]. It serves as a concluding term for the diverse and luxurious wares that defined Tyre's economic power.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words found in the same context illuminate the world of commerce described in Ezekiel 27:
* `{{H7402}}` **râkal** (to travel for trading; (spice) merchant): This is the root from which `{{H4819}}` is derived. It refers to the merchants themselves who conducted the trade, as Tyre is described as "a **merchant** of the people for many isles" [[Ezekiel 27:3]].
* `{{H4360}}` **miklul** (something perfect, i.e. a splendid garment; all sorts): This word describes the high quality and variety of the goods, specifying that the merchants dealt in "**all sorts** of things" [[Ezekiel 27:24]].
* `{{H1264}}` **bᵉrôwm** (damask; rich apparel): This term points to one of the specific luxury items being traded, identifying "chests of **rich apparel**" as part of the cargo [[Ezekiel 27:24]].
* `{{H1595}}` **genez** (treasure; by implication, a coffer; chest, treasury): This word denotes the containers used to hold valuable goods, such as the "**chests** of rich apparel" [[Ezekiel 27:24]]. It is also used elsewhere to refer to royal "**treasuries**" [[Esther 3:9]].
### Theological Significance
The thematic significance of `{{H4819}}` is tied directly to its singular context in the lament over Tyre.
* **Wealth and Luxury:** The word caps a list of opulent items—blue clothes, broidered work, and rich apparel—collectively defining the immense wealth that characterized the city of Tyre [[Ezekiel 27:24]].
* **International Trade:** Its use in Ezekiel 27 illustrates a complex network of international commerce. The chapter details merchants from numerous nations bringing their goods to Tyre's market.
* **Materialism and Judgment:** The detailed accounting of Tyre's "merchandise" serves a prophetic purpose, highlighting the pride and material abundance for which the city would face divine judgment.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H4819}}` is a rare word, its single use is highly impactful. It functions as a comprehensive label for the vast array of goods that fueled the economy of ancient Tyre. Positioned within a detailed prophetic oracle, **markôleth** encapsulates the worldly wealth and commercial prowess that were both the source of the city's fame and the reason for its prophesied downfall.
TRV