מִלֻּאָה (mil.lu.ah)
mil.lu.ah
setting
H:N-FQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-F
Word Overview
The noun milu’ah refers to the setting or mounting of a gemstone. It appears only three times in the Hebrew Bible, all within the detailed instructions for the priestly garments in Exodus 28 and 39. The word describes the physical framework that holds precious stones securely in place.
Its root relates to verbs meaning "to fill" or "to complete." In this context, the setting is not merely a holder but the element that completes the stone’s purpose by securing it within the ephod or breastplate. The term highlights the craftsmanship required to integrate individual gems into the larger sacred design.
Translators typically render milu’ah as "setting" or "mounting." This usage underscores the value placed on precision and permanence in the holy vestments, ensuring that each stone representing a tribe of Israel remains fixed and visible. The word serves as a technical term for artisanal work rather than a metaphorical concept.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word milu’ah describes the metal framework that holds a gemstone securely in place. In Exodus, this term appears when God gives detailed instructions for the high priest’s breastplate. Each stone represented one of Israel’s tribes, and the setting ensured that no stone was lost or loose. The craftsmanship required precision, so every piece remained fixed within the gold.
For your faith, this image reminds us that God values both beauty and stability. He does not leave what is precious to chance. Just as the artisan crafted a secure home for each gem, God provides a firm foundation for your life. You are held securely in His care, part of a larger design where every detail matters.
This focus on permanence offers comfort during uncertain times. When you feel unstable or adrift, remember that you are set firmly in Christ. Your place in His kingdom is not temporary or fragile. It is crafted with intention and secured by His faithfulness, ensuring you remain visible and valued in His eyes.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- in/ settings/ their2×
- a setting of1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- מִלֻּ֣אַת1×
- בְּ/מִלּוּאֹתָֽ/ם\׃1×
- בְּ/מִלֻּאֹתָֽ/ם\׃1×
Key Verses
-
Exodus 28:17
You shall set in it settings of stones, four rows of stones: a row of ruby, topaz, and beryl shall be the first row;
This verse introduces the command to create settings for four rows of stones, establishing the structural order for the breastplate.
-
Exodus 28:20
and the fourth row a chrysolite, an onyx, and a jasper. They shall be enclosed in gold in their settings.
Here the text specifies that the final row of stones must be enclosed in gold within their settings, emphasizing security and completeness.
-
Exodus 39:13
and the fourth row, a chrysolite, an onyx, and a jasper. They were enclosed in gold settings.
This verse records the fulfillment of the command, showing that the artisans successfully enclosed the stones in gold settings as instructed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does milu’ah mean in the Bible?
Why is this word significant for understanding the priestly garments?
How is milu’ah different from other words for stones?
Every Occurrence (3 verses across 1 books)
Exodus 3 verses
You shall set in it settings of stones, four rows of stones: a row of ruby, topaz, and beryl shall be the first row;
Exodus 28:20and the fourth row a chrysolite, an onyx, and a jasper. They shall be enclosed in gold in their settings.
Exodus 39:13and the fourth row, a chrysolite, an onyx, and a jasper. They were enclosed in gold settings.