מְיֻסָּדָה
something founded, i.e. a foundation
Definition
The Hebrew word מְיֻסָּדָה is a feminine passive participle meaning 'something founded' or 'a foundation.' It specifically refers to a constructed base or support structure upon which something is built. In its sole biblical occurrence in Ezekiel 41:8, it describes the raised foundation platform of the temple complex. The word conveys the sense of a prepared, established, and solid base, derived from the action of laying or setting something in place. As a participle, it emphasizes the state of having been founded.
Biblical Usage
This word is used only once in the entire Old Testament, in Ezekiel 41:8. In this prophetic vision, it describes the architectural feature of a 'foundation' or 'platform' upon which the temple's side chambers were built. The context is a detailed, visionary description of the future temple's measurements and structure, where this foundation provides elevation and stability for the adjoining rooms.
Etymology
The word מְיֻסָּדָה is the feminine passive participle of the root verb יָסַד (yasad, H3245), which means 'to found, establish, or lay a foundation.' This root is common in Hebrew for describing the founding of cities (e.g., Proverbs 8:29), the earth (e.g., Psalm 104:5), and buildings. The passive participle form indicates the result of the action—'that which has been founded.' Cognates exist in other Semitic languages like Ugaritic and Aramaic with similar meanings related to establishing or founding.
Semantic Range
Although used only once, this word connects to the significant biblical theme of God as the ultimate founder and establisher. The foundation in Ezekiel's temple vision points to the divine order, permanence, and careful preparation inherent in God's plans for worship and His dwelling place. Understanding this term enriches the reading of Ezekiel by highlighting that even the architectural details of the vision are intentionally 'founded' or established, reflecting God's sovereignty and the stability of His promises for restoration.
In ancient Near Eastern culture, particularly in Israelite temple architecture, a foundation was not merely a subterranean footing. As seen in Ezekiel 41:8, it could be a raised stone platform or podium, elevating and separating sacred space from the common ground. This construction provided physical stability and symbolic elevation, denoting the holiness and permanence of the structure built upon it. The concept differed from some modern foundations which are often completely hidden.
יְסוֹד (yesod, H3248) — A more common noun for 'foundation,' often used metaphorically (e.g., the foundations of the earth in Psalm 104:5). מוֹסָד (mosad, H4144) — Another noun meaning 'foundation' or 'establishment,' sometimes used for an instituted feast (e.g., Passover in 2 Kings 23:21).
Word Details
How this works
Hebrew definitions are from Brown-Driver-Briggs (1906) and Strong's Exhaustive Concordance (1890), both public domain. BDB was groundbreaking for its era but reflects 19th-century assumptions about Semitic etymology. Modern scholarship (HALOT, DCH) has revised many entries. Use these definitions as a starting point for exploration, not as the final word on a term's meaning in context.
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