H4720 Miqdash, sanctuary

<p>The noun miqdāsh is used most frequently in the OT as the designation of the tabernacle and the temple. It is frequently translated "sanctuary," in these cases. In keeping with the basic meaning of the word group that it represents (qdsh), miqādsh denotes that which has been devoted to the sphere of the sacred. When it refers to the sanctuary, it connotes the physical area devoted to the worship of God. This area was sacred because it was the place where God dwelled among the people (<a href="http://www.crossbooks.com/verse.asp?ref=Ex+25%3A8">Exodus 25:8</a>) and its sanctity was not to be profaned (<a href="http://www.crossbooks.com/verse.asp?ref=Lev+12%3A4">Leviticus 12:4</a>; <a href="http://www.crossbooks.com/verse.asp?ref=Lev+19%3A30">Leviticus 19:30</a>; <a href="http://www.crossbooks.com/verse.asp?ref=Lev+20%3A3">Leviticus 20:3</a>; <a href="http://www.crossbooks.com/verse.asp?ref=Lev+21%3A12">Leviticus 21:12</a>, <a href="http://www.crossbooks.com/verse.asp?ref=Lev+21%3A23">23</a>).

Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament.</p>