### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qemach**, represented by `{{H7058}}`, refers to **flour** or **meal**. It derives from an unused root that likely means to grind. Appearing **14 times** in **14 unique verses**, this term signifies a foundational element of daily life and sustenance in the ancient world, representing a basic food staple derived from grain.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H7058}}` is used in various contexts that highlight its importance. It is a key ingredient for hospitality, as when Abraham instructs Sarah to quickly use three measures of fine **meal** to make cakes for their guests [[Genesis 18:6]]. It also serves as a powerful symbol of God's miraculous provision, most notably in the story of the widow of Zarephath, whose barrel of **meal** did not run out during a famine [[1 Kings 17:16]]. Furthermore, it is associated with judgment, as in the prophecy that a fruitless harvest will yield no **meal** [[Hosea 8:7]], and with servitude, where grinding **meal** is depicted as a humbling task [[Isaiah 47:2]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller picture of the creation and use of meal:
* `{{H5560}}` **çôleth** (flour (as chipped off); (fine) flour, meal): This term often specifies a higher quality, or **fine flour**, and is sometimes used alongside `{{H7058}}`. For example, Solomon's daily provisions included both **fine flour** and regular **meal** [[1 Kings 4:22]].
* `{{H2912}}` **ṭâchan** (to grind meal): This is the action required to produce flour. The connection is explicit in the command given to Babylon: "Take the millstones, and **grind** meal" [[Isaiah 47:2]].
* `{{H3899}}` **lechem** (food (for man or beast), especially bread, or grain (for making it)): This word represents the final product often made from **qemach**. It appears with **meal** in lists of provisions brought to support David's men, indicating abundance [[1 Chronicles 12:40]].
* `{{H8184}}` **sᵉʻôrâh** (barley (as villose)): This specifies one of the grains that could be ground into meal. It is notably used in the offering of jealousy, which required **barley** meal [[Numbers 5:15]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H7058}}` is tied to its role as a basic life necessity.
* **Divine Sustenance:** The miraculous provision of **meal** for the widow of Zarephath by the word of Elijah underscores God's power to sustain the faithful, even with very little [[1 Kings 17:14]]. Similarly, Elisha uses **meal** to purify a deadly stew, demonstrating God's power to turn what is harmful into something life-giving [[2 Kings 4:41]].
* **Worship and Offerings:** Flour is presented as part of sacred offerings, such as when Hannah brings it to the house of the Lord in Shiloh [[1 Samuel 1:24]] or when Gideon prepares it for an angel of the Lord [[Judges 6:19]]. Its use in the offering of jealousy, however, is distinct—the **barley meal** is used without oil or frankincense to bring iniquity to remembrance [[Numbers 5:15]].
* **Symbol of Blessing or Curse:** Abundant **meal** is a sign of national prosperity and joy, as seen in the provisions for Solomon's household and for Israel's celebration ([[1 Kings 4:22]], [[1 Chronicles 12:40]]). Conversely, a harvest that yields no **meal** is a sign of divine judgment and agricultural failure [[Hosea 8:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7058}}` is a word that, while denoting the simple staple of **flour** or **meal**, carries significant weight. It functions as a tangible representation of core biblical themes, including God's role as provider, the importance of hospitality, the requirements of worship, and the consequences of obedience and disobedience. From a handful of **meal** in a widow's barrel to the vast stores of a king, this word illustrates the connection between the ordinary substance of daily bread and the extraordinary workings of God.
TRV