### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼalmuggîym**, represented by `{{H484}}`, refers to **almug trees** or sticks. It appears **3 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. This term, noted as being of probable foreign derivation, identifies a valuable, imported wood used for constructing significant royal and sacred items.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H484}}` is associated with the great wealth and resources of King Solomon. The **navy** `{{H590}}` of **Hiram** `{{H2438}}` **brought** `{{H5375}}` a **great** `{{H3966}}` **plenty** `{{H7235}}` of **almug** **trees** `{{H6086}}` from **Ophir** `{{H211}}`, along with **gold** `{{H2091}}` and **precious** `{{H3368}}` **stones** `{{H68}}` [[1 Kings 10:11]]. The **king** `{{H4428}}` then **made** `{{H6213}}` this rare wood into **pillars** `{{H4552}}` for the **house** `{{H1004}}` of the **LORD** `{{H3068}}` and for the **king's** `{{H4428}}` **house** `{{H1004}}`, as well as **harps** `{{H3658}}` and **psalteries** `{{H5035}}` for **singers** `{{H7891}}`. The uniqueness of this event is emphasized by the statement that no such **almug** **trees** `{{H6086}}` had **come** `{{H935}}` or been **seen** `{{H7200}}` again [[1 Kings 10:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the value and use of **ʼalmuggîym**:
* `{{H211}}` **ʼÔwphîyr** (Ophir): This region, the source of the **almug** wood, was renowned for its **gold** `{{H2091}}`, underscoring the exotic and valuable nature of the imports brought to Solomon [[1 Kings 9:28]].
* `{{H2438}}` **Chîyrâm** (Hiram): The **king** of Tyre whose **navy** `{{H590}}` was responsible for transporting the **almug** **trees** `{{H6086}}`, highlighting the crucial political and trade alliance that made acquiring such materials possible [[1 Kings 10:11]].
* `{{H3368}}` **yâqâr** (precious): This term, used to describe the **stones** `{{H68}}` that arrived with the **almug** **trees** `{{H6086}}`, suggests the wood itself was considered a **precious** and highly valued commodity [[1 Kings 10:11]].
* `{{H4552}}` **miçʻâd** (pillars): This word identifies one of the specific, foundational uses for the **almug** wood, creating structural elements for both the **house** `{{H1004}}` of the **LORD** `{{H3068}}` and the **king's** `{{H4428}}` palace [[1 Kings 10:12]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H484}}` lies in what its use represents:
* **Excellence in Worship:** Crafting **pillars** `{{H4552}}` for the **house** `{{H1004}}` of the **LORD** `{{H3068}}` and instruments like **harps** `{{H3658}}` and **psalteries** `{{H5035}}` from such a rare and valuable wood demonstrates a commitment to offering the very best materials for the worship of God [[1 Kings 10:12]].
* **Royal and Divine Honor:** The wood was used for both the **king's** `{{H4428}}` **house** `{{H1004}}` and the **house** `{{H1004}}` of the **LORD** `{{H3068}}`. This dual use links the splendor of the earthly kingdom to the glory of God, showing that the finest resources honored both [[1 Kings 10:12]].
* **Bounty Dedicated to God:** The importation of **ʼalmuggîym** from the distant land of **Ophir** `{{H211}}` showcases the extent of Solomon's influence and wealth. The dedication of this bounty to the construction of the temple signifies that the fruits of international commerce and power were ultimately offered to the **LORD** [[1 Kings 10:11]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H484}}` is much more than a simple term for a type of **tree** `{{H6086}}`. It represents exotic rarity, immense value, and the pinnacle of Solomon's prosperous reign. Its use in crafting **pillars** for the temple and palace, as well as musical instruments for worship, illustrates a principle of dedicating the finest and most unique earthly treasures to honor God and the king. The wood of the **ʼalmuggîym** stands as a symbol of a time of unparalleled splendor, so unique that its like was not **seen** again [[1 Kings 10:12]].
TRV