### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mathkôneth**, represented by `{{H4971}}`, refers to a **proportion**, **composition**, or **measure**. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. The term is versatile, used to describe a specific formula, a required quantity, a standard for measurement, or a designated state or condition.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H4971}}` defines specific and often unalterable standards. It is used for the holy **composition** of the anointing oil and perfume, which were sacred to the LORD and forbidden for common use ([[Exodus 30:32]]; [[Exodus 30:37]]). In a different context, it describes the required **tale**, or quota, of bricks that the Israelites were forced to make [[Exodus 5:8]]. It also signifies the proper **state** to which the house of God was restored [[2 Chronicles 24:13]] and establishes a standard of **measure** for commercial goods like the ephah and the bath [[Ezekiel 45:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illustrate the contexts in which a specific proportion or measure is required:
* `{{H3843}}` **lᵉbênâh** (brick): This word is directly linked to `{{H4971}}` in the context of the oppressive **tale** of bricks demanded by Pharaoh, highlighting a required quantity of labor [[Exodus 5:8]].
* `{{H7004}}` **qᵉṭôreth** (perfume): The holy **perfume** for the LORD was made according to a specific **composition** that was not to be replicated, underscoring its sanctity [[Exodus 30:37]].
* `{{H374}}` **ʼêyphâh** (ephah): This dry measure is defined by a standard **measure** `{{H4971}}` based on the homer, ensuring fairness and consistency in trade and offerings [[Ezekiel 45:11]].
* `{{H1004}}` **bayith** (house): The restoration of the **house** of God to its proper **state** shows the word's application to a correct standard or divinely intended condition [[2 Chronicles 24:13]].
### Theological Significance
The conceptual significance of `{{H4971}}` revolves around divine standards, holiness, and requirement.
* **Sacred Formulas:** The term defines the unique **composition** of the holy anointing oil and perfume, establishing a clear boundary between what is set apart for God and what is for common use ([[Exodus 30:32]], 37).
* **God's Appointed Order:** When the workmen restored the temple, they set the house of God in its proper **state**, signifying a return to a divinely intended design and order [[2 Chronicles 24:13]].
* **Standards of Justice:** The word is used to establish a uniform **measure** for the ephah and the bath, tying it to the principle of justice in commerce and religious offerings as defined by God [[Ezekiel 45:11]].
* **Required Obligation:** Pharaoh's demand for a specific **tale** of bricks illustrates the concept of a required quota or measure of work, tying the word to accountability and imposed service [[Exodus 5:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4971}}` is a multifaceted word that signifies more than a simple measurement. It encompasses the ideas of a required quota, a specific formula, a righteous standard, and a proper condition. From the oppressive tale of bricks in Egypt to the holy compositions for the tabernacle and the restored state of the temple, **mathkôneth** consistently points to a defined proportion or measure, whether set by man or by God.
TRV