### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mishqâl**, represented by `{{H4948}}`, is a primary term for **weight**. Derived from the word שָׁקַל, its definition includes "weight (numerically estimated); hence, weighing (the act); (full) weight." It appears **49 times** across **42 unique verses**, making it a significant word for understanding concepts of value, commerce, and measure in scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4948}}` is used to establish concrete value and measurement. It frequently quantifies precious metals for gifts, spoils, and sacred offerings, such as the golden earring described as having a "half a shekel **weight**" [[Genesis 24:22]]. It is crucial in the preparation for the temple, where David provided gold and silver "by **weight**" for holy instruments [[1 Chronicles 28:14]] but also prepared iron and brass in such abundance they were "without **weight**" [[1 Chronicles 22:14]]. The term also carries symbolic meaning, as when eating bread "by **weight**" signifies a curse of scarcity and rationing [[Leviticus 26:26]]. Conversely, it can denote integrity, as when money is returned in "full **weight**" [[Genesis 43:21]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a broader context for measurement and value:
* `{{H8255}}` **sheqel** (shekel): This word refers to a standard commercial weight used to measure value. It is frequently paired directly with `mishqâl` to specify the exact weight of items, such as "fifty **shekels** weight" [[Joshua 7:21]].
* `{{H3976}}` **môʼzên** (balances): This term for a pair of scales is the instrument used for the act of weighing. In a symbolic act, Ezekiel is told to take "**balances** to weigh" his hair [[Ezekiel 5:1]].
* `{{H3603}}` **kikkâr** (talent): A **talent** is a large unit of weight, often for precious metals. The weight of a captured king's crown was measured as "a **talent** of gold" [[2 Samuel 12:30]].
* `{{H4884}}` **mᵉsûwrâh** (measure): Used for measuring liquids, this word appears alongside `mishqâl` to describe conditions of severe rationing, where the people must "eat bread by **weight**, and... drink water by **measure**" [[Ezekiel 4:16]].
### Theological Significance
The concept of `{{H4948}}` carries significant theological weight. It is foundational to understanding divine standards and actions.
* **A Standard of Justice:** The law explicitly ties **weight** to righteousness, forbidding injustice in measurement and establishing it as a principle of holy living [[Leviticus 19:35]].
* **A Measure of Sacred Value:** The meticulous specification of the **weight** of gold and silver for the temple's articles underscores their consecrated purpose and immense value in worship [[1 Chronicles 28:17]]. The return of these items to Jerusalem was accounted for by **weight**, ensuring their proper stewardship [[Ezra 8:30]].
* **An Indicator of Judgment and Blessing:** The term can signify divine judgment when God breaks the staff of bread, forcing people to eat by **weight** in a time of scarcity [[Ezekiel 4:16]]. Conversely, an immeasurable abundance, described as "without **weight**," reflects immense provision [[1 Kings 7:47]].
* **A Metaphor for God's Sovereignty:** In a poetic description of creation, God is said to "make the **weight** for the winds," using this physical principle to illustrate His absolute power and meticulous design of the natural world [[Job 28:25]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4948}}` **mishqâl** is far more than a simple term for physical measurement. It is a cornerstone concept in biblical economics, law, and worship, used to define the value of everything from jewelry to temple offerings. It serves as a powerful metaphor for justice, divine judgment, and God's sovereign control over creation. The word illustrates how a practical, everyday concept can be imbued with profound theological significance, representing both the tangible value of earthly goods and the intangible standards of God.
TRV