מַחֲרָאָה

a sink

Definition

The Hebrew noun מַחֲרָאָה (machărâʼâh) refers to a place for human waste, specifically a latrine or toilet facility. It is derived from a root meaning 'excrement' or 'dung,' indicating its function as a designated area for sanitation. In the Old Testament, this word appears only in 2 Kings 10:27, where it describes the repurposing of a temple of Baal into a public latrine, symbolizing its complete desecration. The term conveys a sense of defilement and rejection, transforming a sacred space into one associated with impurity.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the Old Testament, in 2 Kings 10:27. In this context, King Jehu destroys the temple of Baal in Samaria and turns it into a מַחֲרָאָה, a 'latrine' or 'draught house' (KJV). This singular usage is highly symbolic, employing the word not merely for sanitation but as an act of religious and cultural contempt, permanently defiling a pagan worship site to prevent its future use.

Etymology

מַחֲרָאָה is a noun derived from the root ח־ר־א (ḥ-r-ʼ), which relates to excrement or dung. It shares this root with the noun חֶרֶא (chereʼ, H2716), meaning 'dung.' The formation of מַחֲרָאָה follows a common Hebrew pattern for nouns indicating a place or instrument, hence 'a place for dung.' Cognates in other Semitic languages confirm the association with waste and defilement.

Semantic Range

Theologically, this word is significant as it illustrates the biblical concept of defilement and the complete rejection of idolatry. In 2 Kings 10:27, transforming Baal's temple into a latrine is a powerful prophetic act, demonstrating that what was dedicated to a false god is rendered utterly unclean and abominable in the sight of Yahweh. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches the reading by highlighting the depth of Jehu's reforms and the seriousness with which God views idol worship, associating it with spiritual filth.

In ancient Near Eastern culture, human waste was a powerful symbol of impurity and curse. Designating a site—especially a former religious center—as a latrine was a profound act of desecration and humiliation, intended to render it permanently unfit for any sacred purpose. This practice differs from a modern, purely functional view of sanitation, as it carried heavy ritual and symbolic weight, communicating total defeat and contempt for the associated deity.

חֶרֶא (chereʼ, H2716) — refers to the dung or excrement itself, whereas מַחֲרָאָה is the place designated for it.

Word Details