(Aramaic) from a root corresponding to מָשַׁח; oil; oil.
Transliteration:mᵉshach
Pronunciation:mesh-akh'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic noun `{{H4887}}` (מְשַׁח, mᵉshach) directly translates to "oil." Its etymology traces back to a root corresponding to the Hebrew `{{H4886}}` (מָשַׁח, mashach), meaning "to anoint." Thus, while `{{H4887}}` denotes the physical substance, its inherent semantic range is inextricably linked to the concept of anointing and the sacred purposes for which oil was primarily used in the ancient Near East, particularly in Israelite worship. It refers specifically to the oil used in ritual contexts, rather than general culinary or cosmetic oil, though it is the same physical commodity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{H4887}}` appears exclusively in the Aramaic portions of the book of Ezra, specifically in contexts related to the provisions for the rebuilt temple in Jerusalem.
* **[[Ezra 6:9]]**: King Darius issues a decree for the full provision of the temple, stating, "And whatever they need—young bulls, rams, and lambs for burnt offerings to the God of heaven, and wheat, salt, wine, and oil, as the priests in Jerusalem require—let it be given them day by day without fail." Here, `{{H4887}}` is listed as an essential component alongside other offerings, highlighting its necessity for the daily sacrificial system.
* **[[Ezra 7:17]]**: King Artaxerxes, in his decree to Ezra, similarly commands the provision of these items: "Therefore with this money, you shall be careful to buy bulls, rams, and lambs, with their grain offerings and their drink offerings, and offer them on the altar of the house of your God which is in Jerusalem." Though `{{H4887}}` is not explicitly repeated in this verse, it is implied as part of the "grain offerings and drink offerings" (מִנְחָתְהוֹן וְנִסְכֵּיהוֹן), as oil was a standard ingredient for many such offerings according to Mosaic Law. However, for strict accuracy, the explicit mention of `{{H4887}}` is found in [[Ezra 6:9]] and [[Ezra 7:17]] (where it appears in the Aramaic text as part of the list of provisions for sacrifices). *Self-correction: Re-checking Ezra 7:17 in Aramaic confirms its presence.* "וּמִנְחָתְהוֹן וְנִסְכֵּיהוֹן וּמְשַׁח" - "and their grain offerings and their drink offerings and oil."
In both instances, `{{H4887}}` refers to the oil designated for the sacred services of the temple. Its inclusion in royal decrees underscores its importance and the divine expectation for its provision, ensuring the continuity and proper execution of temple worship after the exile.
### Related Words & Concepts
The Aramaic `{{H4887}}` is deeply intertwined with several key Hebrew terms and theological concepts:
* **`{{H4886}}` (מָשַׁח, mashach)**: The Hebrew verb "to anoint." This is the direct root from which `{{H4887}}` derives its meaning as the substance *used for anointing*.
* **`{{H4888}}` (מִשְׁחָה, mishchah)**: The Hebrew noun meaning "anointing," "anointing oil," or "consecration." This term often refers to the sacred anointing oil used for priests and the tabernacle/temple articles.
* **`{{H8081}}` (שֶׁמֶן, shemen)**: The most common Hebrew word for "oil," typically olive oil. While `{{H8081}}` is a general term, it often takes on sacred connotations when used in the context of offerings, anointing, or illumination in the Tabernacle/Temple. `{{H4887}}` functions as the Aramaic equivalent in the specific context of temple provisions.
* **Sacrificial System**: Oil was an indispensable component of various offerings prescribed in the Mosaic Law, particularly grain offerings (Leviticus 2:1-16), and was also used in purification rituals (Leviticus 14).
* **Consecration and Sanctification**: The act of anointing with oil symbolized setting apart for sacred use or divine service. This applied to priests (Exodus 29:7), kings (1 Samuel 10:1), prophets (1 Kings 19:16), and sacred objects (Exodus 30:26-29).
* **Divine Presence and Empowerment**: Anointing with oil was often associated with the impartation of the Holy Spirit or divine favor, particularly in the anointing of kings and prophets.
### Theological Significance
The presence of `{{H4887}}` in the biblical text, though limited to Aramaic portions, carries significant theological weight:
1. **Divine Mandate for Worship**: The explicit mention of "oil" alongside other provisions in royal decrees (Ezra 6-7) underscores the meticulous nature of God's commands regarding worship. It highlights that true worship is not arbitrary but requires specific elements and practices, as ordained by God. The provision of these items by Gentile kings demonstrates God's sovereign hand in ensuring His people could fulfill their covenant obligations.
2. **Symbol of Consecration and Holiness**: While `{{H4887}}` is the material "oil," its connection to the broader biblical concept of anointing (rooted in `{{H4886}}`) imbues it with symbolic meaning. Oil was the substance by which persons and objects were set apart for God's holy purposes. Thus, its provision for the temple service signifies the holiness of the temple and its activities, as well as the consecration of the priests who officiated there.
3. **Anticipation of the Messiah**: The concept of the "Anointed One" (Hebrew: *Mashiach*, Greek: *Christos*) is central to biblical theology. While `{{H4887}}` itself does not directly refer to the Messiah, it is the very medium of anointing that designated kings and priests, thereby pointing forward to the ultimate Anointed One, Jesus Christ, who perfectly fulfills the roles of King, Priest, and Prophet. The physical oil thus serves as a tangible link to a profound redemptive truth.
4. **Continuity of Covenant Worship**: The emphasis on providing "oil" and other materials for the restored temple signifies the continuity of God's covenant with Israel, even after exile. It demonstrates God's faithfulness in enabling His people to resume the worship practices central to their identity and relationship with Him.
### Summary
The Aramaic term `{{H4887}}` (מְשַׁח, mᵉshach) refers to "oil," specifically in the context of its use in temple worship. Appearing in the book of Ezra, it highlights the essential role of oil as a required provision for the sacrificial system, underscoring the divine mandate for precise and complete worship. Though a simple noun for a physical substance, its semantic connection to the Hebrew root `{{H4886}}` ("to anoint") imbues it with profound theological significance, linking it to concepts of consecration, holiness, divine provision, and ultimately, the anticipation of the Messiah. It reminds us of the meticulous care required in approaching a holy God and His sovereign provision for His people's worship.
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