### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼattûwq**, represented by `{{H862}}`, is an architectural term for a **gallery**, ledge, or offset in a building. It is a highly specific term, appearing just **5 times** across **4 unique verses**, exclusively within the book of Ezekiel. Its meaning is derived from a root word suggesting decreasing, which aligns with its use to describe ledges or galleries that may reduce the space of the floors below them.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H862}}` is found only in Ezekiel’s detailed vision of a future temple. It is consistently used to describe structural features of this holy building. For example, it defines interconnected, multi-level walkways, as seen in the description of "**gallery** against **gallery** in three stories" [[Ezekiel 42:3]]. The term is also used to specify features that run along the building's sides [[Ezekiel 41:15]] and are integrated with other elements like windows and wood paneling [[Ezekiel 41:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a clearer picture of the vertical structure where these galleries are found:
* `{{H5945}}` **ʻelyôwn** (upper(-most)): This word for "high" or "upper" is used to designate the highest level of the building. In Ezekiel s vision, the dimensions of the **upper** chambers are directly affected by the design of the galleries [[Ezekiel 42:5]].
* `{{H8481}}` **tachtôwn** (lower(-est)): As the counterpart to ʻelyôwn, this term refers to the "lower" or "nethermost" parts of a structure. It establishes the base level of the building from which the galleries rise [[Ezekiel 42:5]].
* `{{H8484}}` **tîykôwn** (middle(-most)): This word for "central" or "middle" completes the three-tiered description of the temple's chambers. It is used in conjunction with "lower" and "upper" to provide a complete vertical orientation for the building that contains the galleries ([[Ezekiel 42:5]], [[Ezekiel 42:6]]).
### Theological Significance
While not a theological term itself, the significance of `{{H862}}` lies in its contribution to the divine blueprint revealed to Ezekiel.
* **Architectural Precision:** The use of such a specific word demonstrates the incredible detail and precision of God's vision for the temple. It describes not just a general structure, but specific features like **galleries** that are part of a complex, integrated design [[Ezekiel 41:16]].
* **Structural Order:** `{{H862}}` helps establish the ordered, multi-level nature of the visionary temple. The relationship between the **galleries** and the upper, middle, and lower chambers illustrates a divinely organized and hierarchical space [[Ezekiel 42:5]].
* **Symmetrical Design:** The repetition of the term, as in "**gallery** against **gallery**" [[Ezekiel 42:3]], emphasizes the symmetrical and harmonious construction of the building, reflecting a divine and perfect plan.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H862}}` is a specific architectural term whose importance is tied to its exclusive context within Ezekiel’s temple vision. It defines a **gallery** or ledge, and its usage highlights the precision, order, and complexity of the divinely inspired structure. While a technical word, it plays a key role in communicating the detailed and comprehensive nature of the sacred building revealed in scripture.
TRV