מֵאָה

Meah, a tower in Jerusalem

Definition

Meah (מֵאָה) is a proper noun referring to a specific tower in the city of Jerusalem. The name itself means 'hundred,' likely indicating its significant size, strength, or perhaps its position. This tower is mentioned exclusively in the book of Nehemiah as part of the description of Jerusalem's rebuilt walls following the exile. It is listed among other notable structures like the Tower of Hananel and the Sheep Gate, marking a specific point on the city's defensive perimeter (Nehemiah 3:1, 12:39).

Biblical Usage

The word Meah is used only twice in the Old Testament, both times in the book of Nehemiah. It functions strictly as a geographical identifier for a tower. In Nehemiah 3:1, it is listed in the inventory of rebuilt wall sections, and in Nehemiah 12:39, it is noted as a landmark in the procession route for the dedication of the wall. Its usage is purely descriptive and locational.

Etymology

Meah is identical to the common Hebrew noun מֵאָה (me'ah, H3967), which means 'a hundred.' The tower was likely named for this number, possibly symbolizing its grandeur, the length of its section of wall, or its importance as one of the city's key defensive points. It is a proper name derived directly from a standard numeral.

Semantic Range

In the ancient Near East, towers were critical components of a city's fortifications, providing high ground for lookouts and defense. Naming a tower 'Hundred' would have communicated its perceived strength, completeness, or perhaps its connection to a military unit or measurement. For the returning exiles in Nehemiah's time, meticulously recording the names of rebuilt structures like the Tower of Meah was an act of reclaiming their cultural and religious heritage, restoring the physical and symbolic identity of Jerusalem.

Migdal (מִגְדָּל, H4026) — The general Hebrew word for 'tower'; Meah is a specific tower's proper name.

Word Details

Scripture References