### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tîykôwn**, represented by `{{H8484}}`, is used to define something as **central** or **middle(-most)**. It appears 11 times across 9 unique verses in the Bible. Derived from the root word `{{H8432}}` **tâvek**, which means "centre" or "midst," `{{H8484}}` specifically points to the central point or element within a larger structure or sequence.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H8484}}` is most frequently used in detailed architectural descriptions of sacred spaces. For the tabernacle, it describes the **middle** bar that passed through the boards, reaching from one end to the other to secure the structure ([[Exodus 26:28]], [[Exodus 36:33]]). In the construction of Solomon's Temple, it refers to the **middle** chamber in a multi-level design, accessed by winding stairs [[1 Kings 6:8]]. The term is also used to designate a specific location, such as the **middle** court where the prophet Isaiah received a word from the LORD [[2 Kings 20:4]]. Its usage extends to time, marking the "beginning of the **middle** watch" as the pivotal moment for Gideon's attack [[Judges 7:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the concept of a central position:
* `{{H8432}}` **tâvek** (midst): As the root word, it signifies the center or a bisection. It is used broadly to indicate being "in the midst" of a group of people or a place, such as in the midst of a bush [[Exodus 3:2]] or in the midst of the city [[Ezekiel 9:4]].
* `{{H8481}}` **tachtôwn** (bottommost, lower): This word is often used in direct contrast to `{{H8484}}`, establishing the lowest part of a sequence. It describes the "lowest chamber" of the house, from which one would ascend to the midst [[Ezekiel 41:7]], or the "nethermost chamber" in the temple [[1 Kings 6:6]].
* `{{H5945}}` **ʻelyôwn** (lofty, upper): This term denotes an elevation and is used to describe the "highest" level. It often completes the three-tiered structure, being used alongside terms for the lowest and middlemost parts of a building ([[Ezekiel 41:7]], [[Ezekiel 42:5]]).
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{H8484}}` highlights several key ideas within the scriptures.
* **Structural Integrity and Order:** The word is integral to the descriptions of the tabernacle and temple, emphasizing a precise, divinely ordained plan. The "middle bar" provides crucial stability [[Exodus 26:28]], and the progression from the lowest to the **middle** to the third level shows a clear hierarchical design [[1 Kings 6:8]].
* **Pivotal Position:** Whether in space or time, the "middle" often represents a point of strategic importance. Gideon initiates his decisive attack at the **middle** watch [[Judges 7:19]], and Isaiah receives his prophetic command while in the **middle** court [[2 Kings 20:4]].
* **Architectural Progression:** In the visionary temple described by Ezekiel, the "middlemost" is part of a detailed architectural scale, positioned between the lowest and the highest chambers ([[Ezekiel 41:7]], [[Ezekiel 42:5]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8484}}` **tîykôwn** is more than just a directional term; it specifies a position of structural, sequential, and strategic importance. From the stabilizing **middle** bar of the tabernacle to the **middle** chamber of the temple and the **middle** watch of the night, this word consistently marks the central element that is crucial to the function, order, and significant events described in the biblical text.
TRV