from שָׁקַף in its original sense of overhanging; a lintel; lintel.
Transliteration:mashqôwph
Pronunciation:mash-kofe'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H4947}}` (מַשְׁקוֹף, *mashqôwph*) denotes the "lintel," specifically the horizontal beam or support that spans the top of a door or window opening. Its etymological root is derived from שָׁקַף (shaqaph, `{{H8259}}`), which carries the primary sense of "to look out," "to look down," or "to overhang." This etymological connection aptly describes the physical position of the lintel: it "overhangs" or "looks down" upon the opening, supporting the structure above it. Functionally, the *mashqôwph* is a critical architectural element, bearing the weight of the wall above the aperture and distributing it to the vertical doorposts. Semantically, therefore, it is fixed to this specific structural component, with no known broader applications beyond its architectural meaning in the biblical text.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{H4947}}` appears exclusively in the book of Exodus, specifically within the sacred narrative of the Passover. Its three occurrences are found in [[Exodus 12:7]], [[Exodus 12:22]], and [[Exodus 12:23]]. In each instance, *mashqôwph* is mentioned in conjunction with the "two side posts" (מְזוּזוֹת, *mezuzot*, `{{H4201}}`), forming the complete frame of a doorway.
The context is the instruction given to the Israelites regarding the preparation for the tenth plague, the death of the firstborn in Egypt. They were commanded to take the blood of the Passover lamb and apply it to the *mashqôwph* and the two *mezuzot* of their houses. This act was to serve as a visible sign for the Lord, ensuring that when He "passed through to smite the Egyptians," He would "pass over" those houses marked with the blood, sparing the firstborn within. The lintel, therefore, was not merely a structural element but became a pivotal point in a divine act of judgment and salvation, a visible marker of covenant obedience and divine protection.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related Hebrew term is מְזוּזָה (*mezuzah*, `{{H4201}}`), meaning "doorpost." These two words, *mashqôwph* and *mezuzah*, are consistently paired in the Passover account, defining the entire entryway. The root שָׁקַף (shaqaph, `{{H8259}}`), from which *mashqôwph* is derived, emphasizes the "overhanging" or "looking down" aspect, which is inherent to the lintel's position. Other related concepts include פֶּתַח (*petach*, `{{H6607}}`), referring to an "opening" or "entrance," and דֶּלֶת (*delet*, `{{H1817}}`), "door." Beyond these architectural terms, the concept of a "sign" (אוֹת, *ʾot*, `{{H226}}`) is inextricably linked to the *mashqôwph* in the Passover narrative, as the blood applied to it served as the divine signal for protection. The broader theological concepts of sacrifice, atonement, and divine protection are also intimately connected to the function of the lintel in this specific biblical context.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of the *mashqôwph* is profoundly tied to the Passover event, serving as a powerful symbol of divine redemption and protection. As the highest part of the doorframe, it was a prominent location for the application of the sacrificial blood, making it a visible testament to the household's faith and obedience to God's command.
The blood on the lintel and doorposts marked a clear demarcation between those under divine judgment and those under divine protection. It represented the efficacy of the substitutionary sacrifice, where the life of the lamb was given to preserve the lives of the firstborn. This act foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, the Lamb of God, whose shed blood provides salvation and protection from spiritual death for all who believe ([[John 1:29]], [[1 Peter 1:18-19]]). The lintel, therefore, becomes a tangible reminder of God's covenant faithfulness and His provision for salvation through blood atonement. It underscores the principle that salvation often involves a visible act of faith and obedience, a public declaration of allegiance that God honors.
### Summary
The Hebrew word `{{H4947}}` (*mashqôwph*) precisely defines the lintel, the upper horizontal beam of a doorway, drawing its meaning from the root שָׁקַף (`{{H8259}}`) which implies "overhanging." Its limited but profoundly significant biblical occurrences are exclusively within the Passover narrative in Exodus. There, the *mashqôwph*, in conjunction with the doorposts (`{{H4201}}`), serves as the critical surface for the application of the Passover lamb's blood. Theologically, the *mashqôwph* stands as a potent symbol of divine protection and redemption, representing the visible sign of faith that averted God's judgment and foreshadowing the saving power of the atoning blood of Christ. It underscores the vital role of obedient faith in receiving God's promised salvation.
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