The Aramaic word môʼzên, represented by H3977, refers to balances or a pair of scales. It appears just 1 time in 1 verse in the entire Bible. The word is used in its dual form, denoting the physical instrument used for weighing, which is central to its only scriptural context of divine judgment.
The sole appearance of H3977 is in the book of Daniel, during the interpretation of the mysterious writing on the wall. Daniel reveals to King Belshazzar the meaning of the word "TEKEL," stating, "Thou art weighed in the balances, and art found wanting" Daniel 5:27. In this powerful scene, the balances serve as a metaphor for a divine, impartial assessment where the king's character and reign are measured and evaluated by God.
Several related Aramaic words are used alongside H3977 to complete the message of judgment in its single verse:
- H8625 tᵉqal (to balance; Tekel, be weighed): This is the verb describing the action performed with the balances, forming the core of the divine declaration, "Thou art weighed" Daniel 5:27.
- H7912 shᵉkach (to discover; find): This word signifies the result or revelation of the weighing process, indicating that a verdict has been reached, as in "and art found wanting" Daniel 5:27.
- H2627 chaççîyr (deficient; wanting): This term provides the final, damning outcome of the evaluation, signifying that the king has failed to meet the divine standard and is found wanting Daniel 5:27.
The theological weight of H3977 is concentrated entirely in its single, powerful appearance.
- Symbol of Divine Judgment: The balances are not a mere tool but a symbol of God's impartial and absolute standard, by which human actions and character are assessed.
- Inescapable Accountability: The act of being weighed in the balances illustrates that all individuals, including powerful kings, are ultimately accountable to God and will face His perfect evaluation.
- The Standard of Righteousness: The context of Daniel 5:27 establishes the balances as the instrument for determining moral and spiritual worth, with the outcome revealing whether one is sufficient or "wanting" before God.
In summary, while H3977 môʼzên is statistically rare, its singular use gives it profound metaphorical importance. The word for balances becomes the very instrument of divine judgment in the biblical narrative. It transforms a common object into a lasting symbol of God's perfect standard, against which all humanity is measured and held accountable.
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