### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nishkâh**, represented by `{{H5393}}`, is a specific term for a **cell** or **chamber**. It is a rare word, appearing just **3 times** in **3 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning is derived from the word לִשְׁכָּה and is used to describe rooms or chambers within a larger complex, particularly in the context of the temple.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
All occurrences of `{{H5393}}` are found in the book of Nehemiah, where these chambers play a key role in the restoration of worship and order in Jerusalem. In one instance, they are designated as storerooms for holy contributions, including **treasures** `{{H214}}`, **offerings** `{{H8641}}`, **firstfruits** `{{H7225}}`, and **tithes** `{{H4643}}` meant to support the priests and Levites [[Nehemiah 12:44]]. The term is also used to describe a personal **chamber** `{{H5393}}` located opposite a section of the city wall being repaired [[Nehemiah 3:30]]. Critically, a **chamber** `{{H5393}}` in the courts of the house of God was improperly prepared for Tobiah, an act described as an "evil" [[Nehemiah 13:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the physical and spiritual context of a **nishkâh**:
* `{{H1004}}` **bayith** (house): This word is used broadly for a house or temple. A **nishkâh** was located within the **courts** `{{H2691}}` of the **house** `{{H1004}}` of God [[Nehemiah 13:7]].
* `{{H214}}` **ʼôwtsâr** (store-house, treasure-house): This term refers to a depository. The chambers were appointed to hold the **treasures** `{{H214}}` and other sacred portions for the temple personnel [[Nehemiah 12:44]].
* `{{H2691}}` **châtsêr** (court): This refers to an enclosed yard, often of the temple. The misuse of a **chamber** `{{H5393}}` took place within the **courts** `{{H2691}}` of the temple, highlighting the violation of a sacred area [[Nehemiah 13:7]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{H5393}}` carries significant implications regarding order and holiness in worship.
* **Sacred Stewardship:** The chambers were central to the system of provision for the priesthood. They were designated spaces for collecting and storing the **tithes** `{{H4643}}` and **offerings** `{{H8641}}` required by the law, ensuring the ministry could continue [[Nehemiah 12:44]].
* **Sanctity of Place:** The narrative condemns the use of a temple **chamber** `{{H5393}}` for a profane purpose, showing that spaces dedicated to God must be protected from corruption. Granting a chamber to Tobiah was an act of "evil" precisely because of where it was located [[Nehemiah 13:7]].
* **Personal and Corporate Responsibility:** The mention of a man repairing the wall "over against his **chamber**" `{{H5393}}` links personal dwelling space and individual responsibility to the larger project of communal restoration.
### Summary
In summary, **nishkâh** `{{H5393}}` is more than just an architectural term. While it literally means a chamber, its limited use in Nehemiah situates it as a vital component of the temple's function. These chambers were integral to the principles of sacred stewardship, the sanctity of holy spaces, and the organized support of God's ministers.
TRV