מִגְרָעָה
𐤌𐤂𐤓𐤏𐤄
migrâʻâh
H4052 noun
SILEX Entry
Definition
A ledge, offset, or terrace formed by a recession or narrowing in a structure; specifically, a projecting or receding architectural feature used as an ornamental or structural step, shelf, or holder within stonework or metalwork. The term often denotes a rest or support created by a change in thickness or width, particularly in contexts describing the design of the temple or altar.
Semantic Range
recessed ledge in architecture, structural offset or terrace, panel or frame portion within a base, ornamental setback
Root / Etymology
From the root גָּרַע (gara‘), meaning 'to diminish, withdraw, take away.' מִגְרָעָה is a feminine noun form, denoting that which is diminished or set back — hence, a setback or recess.
Historical & Contextual Notes
The term מִגְרָעָה is found primarily in descriptive passages about tabernacle or temple furniture, notably in the context of the bases (sockets) and lavers (basins) in Solomon's Temple (e.g., 1 Kings 7:28-36). In these architectural descriptions, a מִגְרָעָה refers to the inset portion or a receded place—essentially, a molded or carved ledge that interrupts the otherwise even surface. It is not a general term for any recess, but specifically for an intentionally designed feature in construction, often serving a decorative or functional purpose (such as supporting another element or breaking up a large, flat surface). English translations vary, sometimes rendering it as 'panel,' 'frame,' 'ledge,' or 'recess,' but 'ledge' or 'offset' most closely aligns with the architectural sense. The word is rare and highly specialized in biblical usage, not occurring in everyday language or broader construction vocabularies.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
from גָּרַע; a ledge or offset; narrowed rest.
Bantu Hebrew
No Bantu Hebrew comparisons have been submitted for this word yet.
+ Add Bantu Hebrew WordRoot Family
גרע (g-r-ʿ) — diminish, reduce, withdraw, subtract
| Strong's | Lemma | SIBI-P1 |
|---|---|---|
| H1639 | גָּרַע | I will diminish |
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
H4052-01 |
מִגְרָעוֹת֩ | migeraot | HNcfpa |
offsets | setback ledges | setback ledges | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
H4052-01 |
1 Kings 6:6 | מִגְרָעוֹת֩ | migeraot | HNcfpa |
offsets | setback ledges | setback ledges |