מֶלְקָח

מֶלְקָח

(only in dual) tweezers

Definition

The Hebrew noun מֶלְקָח (melqâch) refers specifically to a small, handheld tool used for grasping or pinching. In the Bible, it appears only in its dual form (מֶלְקָחַיִם, melqâchayim), which indicates a tool with two joined parts, like a pair of tweezers or tongs. Its primary function in the biblical text is as a utensil for trimming the wicks of the golden lampstand in the Tabernacle (Exodus 25:38, Exodus 37:23, Numbers 4:9) and later in Solomon's Temple (1 Kings 7:49, 2 Chronicles 4:21). In a unique, symbolic usage, a seraph uses a pair of מֶלְקָחַיִם to take a live coal from the altar in Isaiah's vision (Isaiah 6:6).

Biblical Usage

This word is used exclusively in cultic (worship-related) contexts. It describes a precise, functional tool for maintaining the sacred lamps in both the portable Tabernacle and the permanent Temple, ensuring the light remained pure and constant (Exodus 25:38, 1 Kings 7:49). Its use in Isaiah 6:6 is metaphorical and dramatic; the tongs are the instrument by which the prophet is ceremonially purified for service, directly linking the mundane temple utensil to a profound act of divine cleansing.

Etymology

The noun מֶלְקָח derives from the root לָקַח (lāqach, H3947), which means 'to take, seize, or receive.' This root connection clearly informs its meaning: a tool for 'taking hold' of something. The dual form (מֶלְקָחַיִם) is standard for objects that are inherently double or paired, such as scissors, scales, or, in this case, tongs.

Semantic Range

While a simple tool, מֶלְקָחַיִм carries theological weight in its contexts. In the Tabernacle and Temple, it was essential for maintaining the divinely mandated perpetual light (Exodus 27:20-21), symbolizing God's continual presence. In Isaiah 6:6, its use transforms from a practical implement to a direct instrument of God's purifying grace, highlighting how ordinary objects can be consecrated for extraordinary, holy purposes in God's service. In the ancient Near East, including Israel, lamps with wicks required regular trimming to burn cleanly and efficiently. The מֶלְקָחַיִם used in the sanctuary were likely made of bronze or gold, distinguishing them as sacred vessels from ordinary household tweezers. Their specific mention underscores the meticulous care and reverence required in maintaining the items of worship, reflecting a culture where ritual purity and precise obedience to divine instructions were paramount. No direct synonyms for this specific cultic tool are used in the biblical text. Related grasping tools might include: מַחֲזִיק (machăzîq, H2388) — a general term for something that holds or grasps, like a handle.

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