(Aramaic) corresponding to מַאֲמַר; {something (authoritatively) said, i.e. an edict}; appointment, word.
Transliteration:mêʼmar
Pronunciation:may-mar'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic term `{{H3983}}` (mêʼmar) is derived from the root אָמַר (amar), meaning "to say" or "to speak." As an Aramaic noun, mêʼmar specifically denotes an authoritative utterance, a word that carries the weight of a command or a decree. Its semantic range encompasses "edict," "decree," "command," "appointment," or an official "word." Unlike a general spoken word, mêʼmar implies a pronouncement that is binding and effective, often originating from a position of power or authority. It is explicitly identified as corresponding to the Hebrew `{{H3972}}` (maʼamar), which similarly conveys the sense of a command or decree. Thus, mêʼmar signifies a word that is not merely spoken, but that *establishes*, *ordains*, or *commands* with executive force.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{H3983}}` appears exclusively in the Aramaic portions of the Old Testament, specifically in the books of Daniel and Ezra. Its usage consistently highlights the authoritative and binding nature of the pronouncements it describes:
* **Daniel 4:17**: "This matter is by the decree (מֵאמַר) of the watchers, and the demand by the word of the holy ones..." Here, mêʼmar refers to a divine decree, a decision made in the heavenly realm concerning the earthly kingdom of Nebuchadnezzar. This emphasizes God's sovereign authority over human affairs.
* **Daniel 4:24**: "This is the decree (מֵאמַר), O king, and this is the interpretation..." Following the dream, Daniel interprets the divine mêʼmar as judgment against Nebuchadnezzar, reinforcing the irresistible nature of God's word.
* **Ezra 5:17**: "Now therefore, if it seem good to the king, let there be search made in the king's treasure house, which is there at Babylon, whether it be so, that a decree (מֵאמַר) was made of Cyrus the king to build this house of God at Jerusalem..." This instance refers to a royal decree issued by King Cyrus, authorizing the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem. It underscores the king's administrative authority.
* **Ezra 6:8**: "Moreover I make a decree (מֵאמַר) what ye shall do to the elders of these Jews for the building of this house of God..." Here, King Darius issues his own mêʼmar, a binding command providing resources and protection for the temple's reconstruction.
In both Daniel and Ezra, mêʼmar denotes a powerful, effective word—whether it is a divine pronouncement from the heavenly court or a royal edict from an earthly monarch. The contexts reveal that these "words" are not suggestions but binding commands that must be obeyed and have tangible consequences.
### Related Words & Concepts
The understanding of `{{H3983}}` (mêʼmar) is enriched by examining its relationship to other biblical terms and concepts:
* **`{{H3972}}` (maʼamar):** As noted in its definition, mêʼmar is the Aramaic counterpart to the Hebrew maʼamar. Both terms convey the idea of an authoritative "word" or "command."
* **`{{H559}}` (amar):** This is the foundational Hebrew verb "to say" or "to speak," from which mêʼmar and maʼamar are derived. The noun forms highlight the *product* of authoritative speaking.
* **`{{H1881}}` (dat):** This Aramaic word frequently translated as "law" or "decree" (e.g., in Ezra and Daniel). While dat often refers to a standing law or established ordinance, mêʼmar emphasizes the *issuance* of a particular, often new, authoritative word or command. They are closely related in the context of royal administration.
* **`{{H6660}}` (tsavah):** A common Hebrew verb meaning "to command" or "to ordain." This verb often describes the act of issuing a binding instruction, similar to the force implied by mêʼmar.
* **`{{H1697}}` (dabar):** The ubiquitous Hebrew word for "word," "thing," or "matter." While dabar can encompass any spoken word, mêʼmar specifically denotes a word imbued with official or divine authority and executive power.
* **Divine Decree and Providence:** The concept of God's sovereign word (dabar or mêʼmar) as the ultimate force shaping history and fulfilling His purposes is a pervasive theological theme throughout Scripture.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H3983}}` (mêʼmar) is profound, particularly in its representation of divine and human authority:
* **Divine Sovereignty:** In Daniel, the mêʼmar of the "watchers" and "holy ones" (divine agents) underscores God's absolute sovereignty over all earthly kingdoms and rulers. Even the most powerful human monarch, Nebuchadnezzar, is subject to a higher, irresistible divine decree. This emphasizes that God's word is ultimate and cannot be thwarted.
* **Providential Control:** The occurrences in Ezra demonstrate God's use of human authority to accomplish His divine purposes. The mêʼmar of Persian kings like Cyrus and Darius, though seemingly human initiatives, are shown to be instruments in God's overarching plan for the restoration of His people and the rebuilding of His temple. This highlights God's meticulous providence, working through various means to bring about His will.
* **Efficacy of the Divine Word:** The term reinforces the biblical truth that God's word is not empty but effective. When God issues a mêʼmar, it *will* come to pass. This concept is foundational to understanding creation (God spoke, and it was), covenant, and prophecy.
* **Authority of Revelation:** The concept of mêʼmar contributes to the understanding of the binding nature of divine revelation. When God speaks, it is a decree, a command to be heeded and obeyed by all creation.
### Summary
`{{H3983}}` (mêʼmar) is an Aramaic term signifying an authoritative, binding utterance, whether originating from a divine source or a royal decree. Its usage in Daniel emphasizes God's ultimate sovereignty and the irresistible nature of His heavenly pronouncements over earthly rulers. In Ezra, it highlights how God providentially uses the mêʼmar of human kings to fulfill His redemptive purposes, specifically in the rebuilding of the temple. The word consistently conveys the power and efficacy of a spoken word that carries the weight of command and brings about concrete results. Thus, mêʼmar is crucial for understanding the dynamic interplay between divine decree and human action in the biblical narrative, underscoring the absolute authority and effectiveness of God's word.
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