← Back to Lexicon
H4395 · Hebrew · Old Testament
מְלֵאָה
Male'ah
Noun, feminine
Fullness, harvest, handfuls

Definition

The Hebrew word male'ah means fullness, that which fills, or the full produce of a harvest. It derives from the root male (H4390, to fill, be full) and refers to the complete yield or overflow of agricultural produce — particularly grain, wine, and firstfruits that were dedicated to God.

Usage & Theological Significance

The concept of male'ah connects directly to the laws of firstfruits and the obligation to present the fullness of the harvest to God without delay (Exodus 22:29). Israel was not to hold back the male'ah — the full produce — but to offer it promptly and generously. This principle reflects a theology of abundance and gratitude: God fills the earth with good things, and His people respond by returning the first and fullest portion to Him. The earth is the LORD's, and the male'ah thereof (Psalm 24:1) — all fullness belongs to and comes from God.

Key Bible Verses

Exodus 22:29Do not hold back offerings from your granaries or your harvest.
Psalm 24:1The earth is the LORD's, and the fullness thereof.
Deuteronomy 22:9Lest the full harvest be defiled — the seed you planted and the vineyard's produce.
Numbers 18:27Your offering will be reckoned to you as grain from the threshing floor or fullness from the winepress.
Psalm 50:12The world is mine, and all its fullness.

Related Words

External Resources

🌙
☀️