(Aramaic) probably from a root corresponding to אָנָה in the sense of an inclosure by sides; a utensil; vessel.
Transliteration:mâʼn
Pronunciation:mawn
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word mâʼn (`{{H3984}}`) primarily denotes a "utensil" or "vessel." Its etymological root, likely corresponding to the Hebrew 'anah (אָנָה), suggests an underlying sense of "enclosure by sides," thereby reinforcing the concept of a container or an implement designed to hold something or serve a specific function. This definition encompasses a broad range of objects, from common household items to specialized implements, all characterized by their capacity to contain or their utility in a particular task. The core meaning emphasizes functionality and containment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term mâʼn (`{{H3984}}`) appears exclusively in the Aramaic portions of the book of Daniel, specifically in chapter 5. Its occurrences are central to the narrative of Belshazzar's feast and the judgment upon the Babylonian king.
* In [[Daniel 5:2]], King Belshazzar commands that "the golden and silver vessels (מָאן)" which his father Nebuchadnezzar had taken from the temple in Jerusalem be brought forth. This immediately establishes the sacred origin and profound significance of these items.
* [[Daniel 5:3]] reiterates this, stating that "they brought the golden vessels (מָאן)" that had been taken from the house of God in Jerusalem. The text emphasizes their origin from the "temple of the house of God," highlighting their consecrated status.
* [[Daniel 5:23]] serves as a climactic indictment. Daniel confronts Belshazzar, stating that he has lifted himself up against the Lord of heaven, and "the vessels (מָאן) of His house have been brought before you, and you and your nobles, your wives and your concubines, have drunk wine from them." This verse explicitly articulates the blasphemous act of using these holy vessels for profane revelry.
The consistent use of mâʼn (`{{H3984}}`) in this context underscores the profound sacrilege committed by Belshazzar. These were not mere household items, but consecrated objects dedicated to the worship of Yahweh. Their misuse for drunken feasting and idolatrous praise (drinking to "gods of gold and silver, bronze, iron, wood, and stone" in [[Daniel 5:23]]) represented a direct affront to the God of Israel and a blatant disregard for the sanctity of His temple. The narrative powerfully demonstrates that even objects, by virtue of their dedication to God, possess a holiness that must not be profaned.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of "vessel" or "utensil" in the Old Testament is primarily covered by the Hebrew word `{{H3627}}` (keli). While mâʼn (`{{H3984}}`) is Aramaic, it functions semantically in a manner highly analogous to `{{H3627}}` when referring to implements or containers. `{{H3627}}` is a much broader term, encompassing everything from household vessels to military equipment and musical instruments. However, like mâʼn (`{{H3984}}`) in Daniel 5, `{{H3627}}` is frequently used to denote the sacred vessels of the tabernacle and temple (e.g., [[Exodus 27:3]], [[1 Kings 7:48]]). The conceptual link between mâʼn and keli lies in their shared capacity to refer to objects that are either common or, crucially, set apart for holy use. In the context of Daniel 5, mâʼn specifically refers to "holy vessels" (keli ha-qodesh), emphasizing their sacred status. Other related concepts include "holy things" (קֹדֶשׁ, qodesh) and the broader idea of "temple furnishings" or "sacred implements."
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of mâʼn (`{{H3984}}`) is deeply embedded in the narrative of Daniel 5. The desecration of the temple vessels represents far more than a simple act of disrespect; it is a profound act of blasphemy and a direct challenge to the sovereignty of God.
1. **Violation of Holiness:** The vessels were consecrated, set apart for the exclusive service of Yahweh. Their use for profane revelry by Belshazzar was a direct violation of their holiness, demonstrating a contempt for God's distinction between the sacred and the common.
2. **Arrogance and Impunity:** Belshazzar's act was an expression of human arrogance, believing himself powerful enough to mock the God of heaven with impunity. This act of hubris directly led to his downfall.
3. **Divine Judgment:** The swift and decisive judgment upon Belshazzar (the handwriting on the wall, his immediate death) underscores God's unwavering commitment to His own holiness and His intolerance for its desecration. The narrative serves as a stark warning against profaning what belongs to God.
4. **Continuity of God's Claim:** Even though Jerusalem and its temple had been destroyed, and the vessels carried away, God's claim over these objects, and indeed over all things, remained absolute. Their misuse highlighted that God's authority transcends geographical location or political power. The vessels, though physically removed, retained their divine dedication.
### Summary
The Aramaic term mâʼn (`{{H3984}}`) denotes a "utensil" or "vessel," rooted in the concept of an "enclosure." Its primary biblical significance emerges from its exclusive use in Daniel 5, where it refers to the sacred temple vessels plundered from Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar. Belshazzar's audacious act of using these consecrated mâʼn for a drunken, idolatrous feast constituted a profound act of blasphemy and contempt for the God of Israel. This desecration of holy objects, which parallels the function of the Hebrew `{{H3627}}` (keli) in sacred contexts, provoked immediate divine judgment. The narrative powerfully conveys that God's holiness is inviolable, His sovereignty absolute, and that profaning what is dedicated to Him carries severe consequences, serving as a timeless reminder of the distinction between the sacred and the profane.
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