מְכֻנָה

מְכֻנָה

a spot

Definition

The Hebrew noun מְכֻנָה (mᵉkunâh) refers to a fixed or established spot, base, or foundation. In its sole biblical occurrence, it describes the specific location or pedestal upon which a symbolic ephah (a measuring basket) is set in a prophetic vision. The word conveys the sense of a prepared, stable place, often for an object to rest or be established. It is closely related to the concept of a foundation or base, similar to its more common derivative, מְכוֹנָה (mᵉkônâh, H4350).

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the entire Old Testament, in Zechariah 5:11. In this prophetic vision, the ephah (representing iniquity) is carried away to the land of Shinar to be placed on its own מְכֻנָה, or base. The usage is highly specific and symbolic, denoting a prepared and established location for this object within the context of God's judgment and the removal of sin.

Etymology

מְכֻנָה is a feminine noun derived from the root כּוּן (kûn), meaning 'to be firm, established, prepared.' It is essentially a variant or byform of the more common noun מְכוֹנָה (mᵉkônâh, H4350), which means 'fixed place, foundation, base.' The shared root connects it to a wide semantic field of stability, establishment, and preparation.

Semantic Range

While used only once, the word's context in Zechariah 5:11 is theologically significant. The vision depicts the removal of a nation's sin (symbolized by the woman in the ephah) to be established in Babylon (Shinar). The 'base' or 'spot' (מְכֻנָה) becomes the final, fixed dwelling place for iniquity, separated from God's people. This reinforces themes of God's judgment on sin, its complete removal, and its confinement to a place opposed to God's purposes, enriching the reader's understanding of God's dealing with corporate sin. In the ancient Near East, establishing a base or foundation for an important cultic or symbolic object was a common practice, signifying permanence and legitimacy. The specific act of placing the ephah on its base in the 'land of Shinar' (Babylon) would carry strong cultural weight for the post-exilic audience, as Babylon represented the archetypal place of exile, opposition to God, and idolatry. The 'base' thus becomes not just a physical spot, but a symbol of where sin ultimately belongs. מְכוֹנָה (mᵉkônâh, H4350) — A more common synonym meaning 'foundation, base, fixed place.' מְכֻנָה appears to be a rare variant. יְסוֹד (yᵉsôd, H3247) — 'foundation,' often of a building; emphasizes the underlying support. מָכוֹן (mâkôn, H4349) — 'fixed place, foundation, dwelling'; often used for God's dwelling place in heaven.

Word Details