### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **mâʼn**, represented by `{{H3984}}`, refers to a **utensil** or **vessel**. It appears **7 times** across **7 unique verses** in the Bible. In every instance, it specifically denotes the sacred vessels belonging to the house of God, highlighting their significance in the context of worship and divine honor.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The biblical narrative consistently tracks the status of these holy items. They are first mentioned as the "golden and silver vessels" that Nebuchadnezzar had taken from the temple in Jerusalem [[Daniel 5:2]]. The story reaches a dramatic climax with his successor, Belshazzar, who commands these same **vessels** to be brought out for a feast. In an act of profound disrespect, he and his court drink wine from them, profaning what was dedicated to God [[Daniel 5:3]]. This act of sacrilege is a central part of his judgment [[Daniel 5:23]]. Later, the book of Ezra details the restoration of these **vessels**, as King Cyrus orders them to be taken from Babylon and returned to their proper place in the rebuilt temple in Jerusalem ([[Ezra 5:14]], [[Ezra 6:5]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
The story surrounding the vessels of `{{H3984}}` is framed by words describing acts of hubris and worship:
* `{{H7313}}` **rûwm**: This word, meaning to **extol** or **lift up**, is used to describe Belshazzar's sin, where he "lifted up" himself against the Lord of heaven by misusing the sacred vessels [[Daniel 5:23]].
* `{{H7624}}` **shᵉbach**: Meaning to **praise** or adore, this action is directed incorrectly by Belshazzar. He **praised** the gods of gold and silver after drinking from the Lord's vessels [[Daniel 5:23]].
* `{{H1922}}` **hădar**: This term for **glorify** or **honour** marks the sin of omission. While praising idols, Belshazzar failed to have **glorified** the God in whose hand his breath was [[Daniel 5:23]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3984}}` is tied to the concepts of sanctity and sacrilege.
* **Sanctity of Dedicated Objects:** The **vessels** were not mere utensils; they were set apart for "the service of the house of thy God" [[Ezra 7:19]]. Their story illustrates that items consecrated to God carry a special status and are to be treated with honor.
* **The Sin of Profanation:** Belshazzar's judgment was not simply for idolatry, but for the specific act of profaning holy things. He used the instruments of worship to praise false gods, a direct affront to the God of Israel [[Daniel 5:23]].
* **Divine Sovereignty and Restoration:** The return of the **vessels** to Jerusalem symbolizes God's sovereign power to restore what was taken and to re-establish proper worship. The command to "place them in the house of God" underscores the theme of returning things to their rightful, holy purpose [[Ezra 6:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3984}}` is a word that, while simply meaning **vessel**, carries immense narrative and theological importance. It represents the sanctity of what is dedicated to God. The journey of these specific vessels—from their place in the temple, to their desecration in Babylon, and their eventual restoration—serves as a powerful lesson on the gravity of profaning the holy and the ultimate sovereignty of God in restoring divine order.
TRV