or מַתְכֻנֶת; from תָּכַן in the transferred sense of measuring; proportion (in size, number or ingredients); composition, measure, state, tale.
Transliteration:mathkôneth
Pronunciation:math-ko'-neth
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun מַתְכֹנֶת (mathkôneth, `{{H4971}}`) derives from the root תָּכַן (takan), meaning "to measure, weigh, estimate, regulate." This etymological connection reveals the core semantic range of מַתְכֹנֶת as something precisely measured, fixed, or determined. Its primary senses encompass "proportion," indicating a specific ratio or balanced relationship; "composition," referring to the precise make-up or ingredients of something; "measure," denoting a fixed quantity or standard; "state," implying a determined condition or arrangement; and "tale," specifically in the sense of a fixed number or count, often applied to a quota. The term consistently conveys a sense of exactitude, order, and predetermined specification, whether divinely ordained or humanly imposed.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term מַתְכֹנֶת (mathkôneth, `{{H4971}}`) appears a limited number of times in the Hebrew Bible, yet its occurrences are highly significant, illuminating various facets of its meaning:
* **Exodus 5:8, 5:18**: In these passages, מַתְכֹנֶת is translated as "tale of bricks." Pharaoh commands that the Israelites' "tale of bricks" (מַתְכֹנֶת לְבֵנִים) remain the same, even though they are no longer provided with straw. Here, the word signifies a fixed, unyielding quota or a precise, burdensome measure imposed by an oppressive authority. It underscores the severity of the taskmaster's demands, highlighting a predetermined, non-negotiable quantity that must be met.
* **1 Kings 6:25**: Describing the cherubim in Solomon's Temple, the text states that "the other cherub had one measure" (וְהַכְּרוּב הָאֶחָד מַתְכֹנֶת אֶחָת). This usage refers to a precise dimension or proportion, emphasizing the exactitude and uniformity required in the construction of a sacred space. It reflects a divine blueprint and the meticulous attention to detail in sacred architecture.
* **Ezekiel 43:10**: In Ezekiel's vision of the new Temple, the prophet is instructed to "show the house to the house of Israel, that they may be ashamed of their iniquities; and let them measure the pattern" (וּמָדְדוּ אֶת־הַתַּכְנִית). While the KJV uses "pattern," many translations and commentators understand this to refer to the precise "measure" or "design" of the temple. The context suggests a detailed blueprint or divine specification for the future sanctuary, implying a divinely established standard for holiness and worship.
* **Ezekiel 45:11**: Here, מַתְכֹנֶת refers to a standard measure for the ephah (for dry goods) and the bath (for liquids): "The ephah and the bath shall have the same measure" (מַתְכֹנֶת אֶחָת יִהְיֶה לָהֶם). This usage speaks to the divine expectation of fairness and honesty in commercial dealings, establishing a just and equitable standard that prevents fraud and ensures integrity in the marketplace.
Across these contexts, מַתְכֹנֶת consistently denotes a fixed, precise, or determined quantity, proportion, or arrangement, whether it is an oppressive human quota, a divine architectural specification, or a standard for just commerce.
### Related Words & Concepts
The root תָּכַן (takan) from which מַתְכֹנֶת (mathkôneth, `{{H4971}}`) is derived, is crucial for understanding its semantic field. Other derivatives include:
* תֹּכֶן (tōken, `{{H8434}}`): Also meaning "measure" or "task," often in the context of a fixed amount or quota, reinforcing the idea of a set quantity.
* תָּכַן (takan, `{{H8505}}`): The verbal root itself, meaning "to weigh, measure, regulate, estimate, establish." This highlights the act of bringing something into precise order or determination.
Concepts closely related to מַתְכֹנֶת include:
* **Order and Precision:** The word inherently speaks to a structured, exact arrangement, contrasting with chaos or arbitrariness.
* **Divine Design/Blueprint:** Particularly in the Temple contexts, it points to God's meticulous and unalterable plan for His creation and dwelling.
* **Standard and Norm:** It signifies a fixed criterion against which things are judged or produced, whether for justice or construction.
* **Quota/Task:** In the Exodus narrative, it highlights a predetermined, often burdensome, amount of work or production.
The theological concepts of divine wisdom, righteousness, and sovereignty are all implicitly connected to the precise and ordered nature conveyed by מַתְכֹנֶת.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of מַתְכֹנֶת (mathkôneth, `{{H4971}}`) is profound, revealing aspects of God's character and His relationship with humanity.
1. **God as the God of Order and Precision:** The use of מַתְכֹנֶת in the context of the Temple (1 Kings, Ezekiel) underscores God's nature as a God of perfect order and meticulous design. His sacred spaces are not haphazard but built according to precise, divinely revealed specifications. This reflects a theological truth that God's actions and His creation are characterized by wisdom, intention, and exactitude. The divine mathkôneth ensures holiness and proper worship.
2. **Divine Justice and Equity:** In Ezekiel 45:11, the command for a uniform "measure" (מַתְכֹנֶת) for commercial transactions reveals God's demand for righteousness and fairness in human dealings. God's character is just, and He expects His people to reflect that justice in their economic practices. The integrity of measures is a theological concern, touching upon the ethical foundation of society.
3. **Human Responsibility and Obedience:** The divine mathkôneth for the Temple serves as a standard for human obedience. To build or act according to God's "measure" is an act of faithfulness and submission to His will. Deviation from this divine blueprint would signify disobedience and a departure from holiness.
4. **Contrast with Human Oppression:** The "tale of bricks" in Exodus presents a stark contrast between divine and human "measures." Pharaoh's mathkôneth is oppressive, burdensome, and designed to enslave. This highlights the perversion of a fixed measure when wielded by human tyranny, contrasting sharply with God's perfect and righteous standards which lead to flourishing and justice.
In essence, מַתְכֹנֶת points to the ordered, just, and intentional nature of God's dealings, whether in establishing sacred spaces, demanding ethical behavior, or setting the parameters for human existence.
### Summary
מַתְכֹנֶת (mathkôneth, `{{H4971}}`) is a Hebrew noun derived from the root תָּכַן (takan), signifying a fixed, precise, or determined quantity, proportion, or arrangement. Its semantic range includes "proportion," "composition," "measure," "state," and "tale" (as in a fixed quota). Biblical occurrences demonstrate its versatility: in Exodus, it denotes the oppressive "tale of bricks" imposed by Pharaoh; in 1 Kings and Ezekiel, it refers to the precise "measure" or "pattern" of the Temple, emphasizing divine architectural design and order; and in Ezekiel 45, it signifies an equitable "measure" for commercial transactions, highlighting divine standards of justice. Theologically, מַתְכֹנֶת underscores God's nature as a God of order, precision, and righteousness, whose plans are meticulously designed and whose demands for justice are unwavering. It also serves as a point of contrast, distinguishing divine, life-giving standards from oppressive human impositions.
TRV