מָקַץ

Makats, a place in Palestine

Definition

Makats (מָקַץ) is a proper noun referring to a specific location in ancient Palestine. It is identified as one of the twelve administrative districts established by King Solomon, mentioned in 1 Kings 4:9. The name likely derives from a root meaning 'to cut off' or 'end,' possibly describing a geographical feature like a border or boundary. As a place name, it signifies a town or region within the territory of Dan, from which Solomon's official Ben-deker collected provisions.

Biblical Usage

This word appears only once in the Old Testament, in 1 Kings 4:9, within a list of Solomon's twelve district officers and their assigned regions. The context is administrative, detailing the organization of the kingdom for taxation and supply. It is used solely as a geographical identifier for a district in the territory of Dan.

Etymology

The name Makats is derived from the Hebrew root קָצַץ (qāṣaṣ, H7112), which means 'to cut off,' 'cut down,' or 'sever.' This root conveys the sense of an end or a boundary. As a place name, it likely described a location at a border or a cut-off point, such as a mountain pass or the edge of a territory.

Semantic Range

In its original setting, Makats was part of Solomon's sophisticated administrative system to support the royal court and building projects in Jerusalem (1 Kings 4:7-19). This system divided Israel into districts that did not always align with traditional tribal boundaries, which may have weakened tribal loyalties and centralized royal power. Understanding it as a supply district highlights the practical demands of maintaining a large kingdom and its centralized worship.

No direct synonyms as a proper place name. Related administrative terms include: נָצִיב (nāṣîḇ, H5324) — a prefect or appointed officer; מְדִינָה (mᵊḏînâ, H4082) — a district or province.

Word Details

Scripture References