מַסְלוּל

מַסְלוּל

a thoroughfare (as turnpiked)

Definition

The Hebrew word מַסְלוּל refers to a prepared or constructed road, specifically a raised and leveled highway built for safe and direct travel. It describes a well-maintained thoroughfare, often implying intentional engineering and clearing of obstacles. In its sole biblical occurrence in Isaiah 35:8, it denotes the 'Highway of Holiness,' a metaphor for the path of redemption where the redeemed walk securely to Zion. The imagery contrasts a rough, dangerous path with a specially built and protected way.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the Old Testament, in Isaiah 35:8. It appears in a prophetic context describing the future restoration and blessing for God's people. The usage is highly symbolic, referring not to a literal road but to the spiritual journey of the redeemed returning to God. The context is one of eschatological hope and divine provision, where even the vulnerable can travel without fear.

Etymology

Derived from the root verb סָלַל (sālal, H5549), meaning 'to cast up, heap up, build a highway.' This root involves the action of constructing a raised road by piling up earth and stones. מַסְלוּל is a noun form indicating the product or result of that action—the built-up highway itself. The concept is closely tied to intentional preparation and engineering for travel.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it provides a powerful metaphor for God's way of salvation. In Isaiah 35:8, the 'Highway of Holiness' (מַסְלוּל) represents the path God prepares for His redeemed people to return to Him. It signifies divine initiative, protection, and exclusivity—only the purified may walk on it. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches the reading of this passage by highlighting that salvation is not a random trail but a carefully constructed, accessible road provided by God, foreshadowing the New Testament concept of Jesus as 'the way' (John 14:6). In ancient Near Eastern culture, a constructed highway was a significant infrastructure project, often built by rulers for military, trade, and pilgrimage purposes. It represented security, order, and royal authority, in contrast to unpaved, dangerous paths. Isaiah's audience would have understood a מַסְלוּל as a secure, official road, making the metaphor of a 'Highway of Holiness' a vivid image of God's sovereign provision and the safe passage He guarantees for His people. דֶּרֶךְ (derek, H1870) — a general term for way, road, or journey, often used metaphorically for a manner of life. מְסִלָּה (mᵉsillâ, H4546) — a raised highway or public road, very similar in meaning and also derived from סָלַל, used more frequently (e.g., Isaiah 40:3).

Word Details