### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qâlâl**, represented by `{{H7044}}`, means **burnished** or **polished**. It appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, indicating a very specific application. Its root suggests something being brightened, as if sharpened, and is used to describe a radiant, metallic quality.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7044}}` is used exclusively within prophetic visions to describe the appearance of supernatural beings. In Ezekiel's vision of the living creatures, their feet "sparkled like the colour of **burnished** brass" [[Ezekiel 1:7]], contributing to their otherworldly nature. Similarly, in Daniel's vision of a divine messenger, the figure's arms and feet were "like in colour to **polished** brass" [[Daniel 10:6]], part of a description that includes a face like lightning and eyes like fire.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the imagery associated with `{{H7044}}`:
* `{{H5178}}` **nᵉchôsheth** (brass): This is the metal that `{{H7044}}` is always used to describe. As a material, it is associated with strength, as in the "brasen walls" of Jeremiah [[Jeremiah 1:18]], and with sacred objects, like the "serpent of brass" made by Moses [[Numbers 21:9]].
* `{{H5340}}` **nâtsats** (sparkle): This word is used in direct parallel with `{{H7044}}` in Ezekiel's vision, where the feet of the creatures **sparkled** like burnished brass [[Ezekiel 1:7]], reinforcing the concept of intense, reflective light.
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H7044}}` is tied to its visual and symbolic power in divine encounters.
* **Divine Radiance:** The word is used to convey the awesome, shining glory of heavenly beings. Being "burnished" or "polished" suggests a purified and brilliant light, befitting a messenger from God.
* **Refined Strength:** Brass `{{H5178}}` itself symbolizes strength. When described as "polished," it implies a refined, perfected, and holy form of strength and stability, characteristic of the beings seen in Daniel's and Ezekiel's visions.
* **Awe-Inspiring Appearance:** The use of `{{H7044}}` helps create a tangible image of the supernatural. It translates an ineffable quality of holiness and power into the understandable, visual characteristic of gleaming, polished metal.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7044}}` is a rare and highly specific adjective that plays a crucial role in painting a picture of divine glory. Its meaning of "burnished" or "polished" is consistently applied to brass in visionary contexts, serving to illustrate the radiant, pure, and powerful nature of God's messengers and creations. The word transforms a common material into a symbol of heavenly splendor.
TRV