### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **maddâʻ**, represented by `{{H4093}}`, refers to **intelligence or consciousness; knowledge, science, thought**. It appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible, signifying a specialized form of understanding. It primarily denotes a divinely granted intelligence, the capacity for skillful governance, or the inner realm of consciousness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4093}}` is frequently portrayed as a quality bestowed by God for a specific purpose. This is evident when God `{{H430}}` **gave** `{{H5414}}` Daniel `{{H1840}}` and the three other children `{{H3206}}` **knowledge** `{{H4093}}` and skill `{{H7919}}` in all learning and wisdom [[Daniel 1:17]]. These young men were chosen for their aptitude, including "understanding **science**" `{{H4093}}` [[Daniel 1:4]]. Similarly, Solomon `{{H8010}}` asks God for wisdom `{{H2451}}` and **knowledge** `{{H4093}}` to properly **judge** `{{H8199}}` God's great people `{{H5971}}` [[2 Chronicles 1:10]]. God grants this request, which is distinct from riches or honor [[2 Chronicles 1:11-12]]. The term is also used in a different sense in Ecclesiastes, warning not to curse the king `{{H4428}}`, even in one's **thought** `{{H4093}}` [[Ecclesiastes 10:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller picture of the biblical concept of knowledge and understanding:
* `{{H2451}}` **chokmâh** (wisdom (in a good sense); skilful, wisdom, wisely, wit): This word for wisdom often appears alongside `{{H4093}}`. God granted Solomon **wisdom** and **knowledge** [[2 Chronicles 1:12]], highlighting the connection between practical skill and intellectual capacity.
* `{{H1847}}` **daʻath** (knowledge; cunning, (ig-) norantly, know(-ledge), (un-) awares (wittingly)): Derived from the same root as `{{H4093}}`, this word also signifies knowledge. It is used to describe the young men selected to serve the king as being "cunning in **knowledge**" [[Daniel 1:4]].
* `{{H995}}` **bîyn** (to separate mentally (or distinguish), i.e.(generally) understand): This term for understanding or discernment is also closely linked with `{{H4093}}`. The chosen children were described as "understanding **science**" [[Daniel 1:4]], and Daniel was set apart for having **understanding** in visions and dreams [[Daniel 1:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4093}}` is significant, emphasizing God as the source of true intelligence.
* **A Divine Endowment:** This form of knowledge is not merely acquired through human effort but is a direct gift from God `{{H430}}`. God **gave** `{{H5414}}` it to Daniel and his companions [[Daniel 1:17]] and **granted** `{{H5414}}` it to Solomon `{{H8010}}` in response to his prayer [[2 Chronicles 1:12]].
* **Knowledge for Righteous Rule:** `{{H4093}}` is presented as essential for leadership in God's plan. Solomon `{{H8010}}` specifically **asked** `{{H7592}}` for **knowledge** that he might **judge** `{{H8199}}` God's people `{{H5971}}` righteously [[2 Chronicles 1:11]].
* **The Realm of Inner Thought:** The word's usage extends beyond intellectual capacity to the inner consciousness. [[Ecclesiastes 10:20]] uses it for **thought**, indicating that God is aware of even the most private meditations of the heart `{{H3824}}`, as a secret curse can be revealed as if carried by a **bird** `{{H5775}}` of the air `{{H8064}}`.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4093}}` encompasses a specific kind of knowledge that is both divinely sourced and practically applied. It is the intelligence required for righteous leadership, as seen in Solomon's request [[2 Chronicles 1:10]], and a special aptitude for understanding, as demonstrated by Daniel [[Daniel 1:4]]. Furthermore, it touches upon the personal realm of inner **thought** [[Ecclesiastes 10:20]], reminding believers of the need for integrity in all aspects of life. It illustrates a form of intelligence that originates with God and is essential for both governance and godliness.
TRV