### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼômᵉnâh**, represented by `{{H547}}`, refers to a **column** or **pillar**. Its definition is derived from a root sense of supporting. This word is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its sole appearance documents a specific, dramatic event in the history of the kingdom of Judah involving the temple of the LORD [[2 Kings 18:16]].
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{H547}}` occurs in the historical account of King **Hezekiah** `{{H2396}}` of **Judah** `{{H3063}}`. At that specific **time** `{{H6256}}`, Hezekiah made the decision to **cut off** `{{H7112}}` the gold from the **doors** `{{H1817}}` of the **temple** `{{H1964}}` of the **LORD** `{{H3068}}`. This act included stripping the gold from the **pillars** `{{H547}}` which Hezekiah himself had previously **overlaid** `{{H6823}}`. He then **gave** `{{H5414}}` this precious metal to the **king** `{{H4428}}` of **Assyria** `{{H804}}` as a tribute [[2 Kings 18:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{H547}}` is illuminated by several words describing the temple and its features:
* `{{H1964}}` **hêykâl** (temple): This refers to **a large public building, such as a palace or temple**. The pillars were a key structural and decorative element within the LORD's temple [[2 Kings 18:16]].
* `{{H1817}}` **deleth** (doors): Defined as **something swinging, i.e. the valve of a door**, these were stripped of gold alongside the pillars, showing the extent of the tribute taken from the holy place [[2 Kings 18:16]].
* `{{H6823}}` **tsâphâh** (overlaid): Meaning **to sheet over (especially with metal)**, this word highlights that the pillars had been sanctified and beautified with gold by King Hezekiah, making the act of stripping them more significant [[2 Kings 18:16]].
### Theological Significance
Since `{{H547}}` appears only once, its significance is tied directly to the narrative of [[2 Kings 18:16]].
* **Desperate Tribute:** The stripping of the temple **pillars** `{{H547}}` was not a casual act, but a desperate measure by King **Hezekiah** `{{H2396}}` to appease the invading **king** `{{H4428}}` of **Assyria** `{{H804}}`.
* **Sanctity and Compromise:** The event shows a moment of conflict where the sacred treasures of the **LORD's** `{{H3068}}` **temple** `{{H1964}}` were surrendered to a foreign, earthly power for political survival.
* **Symbol of Crisis:** The pillars, which should represent strength and divine support, become symbols of national crisis. The gold that once glorified God was **cut off** `{{H7112}}` and used to pay a worldly debt [[2 Kings 18:16]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H547}}` **ʼômᵉnâh** is a term for **pillar** whose entire biblical identity is contained within a single verse. It does not represent a broad theological concept but is instead anchored to a specific, historical moment of crisis. The word marks the physical temple pillars that King Hezekiah of Judah stripped of gold as a tribute to the king of Assyria, illustrating a stark intersection of faith, politics, and survival [[2 Kings 18:16]].
TRV