(Aramaic) corresponding to מֹאזֵן; {(only in the dual) a pair of scales}; balances.
Transliteration:môʼzên
Pronunciation:mo-zane'
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic term H3977 (מֹאזֵן, transliterated as *môʼzên*) refers to "balances" or "scales." Its form is inherently dual, indicating the two pans that comprise a weighing instrument. The primary function of such an instrument is to determine the precise weight of goods, thereby facilitating fair and accurate commercial transactions. Beyond its literal use in commerce, the semantic range of H3977 extends metaphorically to concepts of measurement, evaluation, and judgment. It embodies the principle of exactitude and equity, crucial for upholding justice in societal interactions and, profoundly, in divine assessment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The Aramaic word H3977 appears singularly within the biblical text, found in the book of Daniel. Its sole occurrence is in [[Daniel 5:27]], within the chilling interpretation of the "Mene, Mene, Tekel, Parsin" inscription. The prophet Daniel declares to King Belshazzar: "TEKEL: You have been weighed in the balances and found wanting." In this pivotal context, the literal function of scales is elevated to a profound theological metaphor. The "balances" here are not physical instruments for weighing commodities, but rather the divine standard by which Belshazzar's reign, his character, and his actions have been measured. The verdict—"found wanting"—underscores a failure to meet God's righteous expectations, leading directly to the kingdom's downfall. This occurrence powerfully illustrates God's sovereign prerogative to judge human rulers and their kingdoms, demonstrating that all earthly power is subject to divine scrutiny and ultimate accountability.
### Related Words & Concepts
The Aramaic H3977 corresponds directly to the Hebrew H3976 (מֹאזֵן), which also denotes "balances" or "scales" and appears in various contexts emphasizing fair weights and measures (e.g., [[Leviticus 19:36]], [[Proverbs 11:1]], [[Proverbs 16:11]]). Other related Hebrew terms include H6429 (פֶּלֶס, *peles*), referring to a "balance" or "level," often in contexts of divine precision (e.g., [[Isaiah 40:12]], [[Proverbs 5:6]]).
The concept of weighing and balances is intrinsically linked to broader biblical themes:
* **Justice and Righteousness:** The use of accurate scales is a foundational principle of divine law, ensuring equity in human dealings ([[Deuteronomy 25:13-16]]). A "false balance" is an abomination to the Lord ([[Proverbs 11:1]], [[Proverbs 20:23]]).
* **Judgment and Accountability:** As seen in [[Daniel 5:27]], the balances symbolize God's meticulous evaluation of human deeds and character. This concept recurs throughout Scripture, where individuals and nations are "weighed" by God's standards ([[1 Samuel 2:3]], [[Job 31:6]], [[Psalm 62:9]]).
* **Divine Sovereignty:** God is the ultimate arbiter, holding the scales of justice in His hand, determining the fate of nations and individuals.
### Theological Significance
The theological import of H3977 and its related concepts is profound, centering on the nature of God as a just and righteous judge. The "balances" serve as a potent symbol of divine precision and impartiality in judgment. God's assessment is not arbitrary or capricious, but meticulously accurate, measuring every thought, word, and deed against His holy standard. The imagery of being "weighed and found wanting" in [[Daniel 5:27]] conveys the terrifying reality of human inadequacy when confronted with divine perfection. It underscores the biblical truth that all humanity stands accountable before God, and no one can ultimately escape His scrutiny. This concept reinforces the necessity of living righteously and humbly before the Lord, acknowledging His ultimate authority and the inevitability of His righteous judgment. It also implicitly points to the need for divine grace and mercy, as human efforts alone will always fall short when placed on God's perfect scales.
### Summary
The Aramaic term H3977 (מֹאזֵן) denotes "balances" or "scales," inherently signifying a pair of weighing pans. While its literal function is to ensure fairness in commerce, its singular and most impactful biblical occurrence in [[Daniel 5:27]] elevates it to a powerful metaphor for divine judgment. Here, King Belshazzar is "weighed in the balances and found wanting," illustrating God's meticulous and righteous evaluation of human conduct and character. This word, alongside its Hebrew counterparts `{{H3976}}` and `{{H6429}}`, underscores fundamental theological principles: God's unwavering commitment to justice and righteousness, the universal accountability of all beings before Him, and the precise, impartial nature of His ultimate judgment. The balances thus serve as a stark reminder of divine sovereignty and the critical importance of living in alignment with God's perfect standards.
TRV