### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Mîykâʼêl**, represented by `{{H4317}}`, poses the question **"who (is) like God?"**. It appears 13 times across 13 unique verses in the Bible. This name is assigned to a powerful archangel who acts as a prince for Israel, and it is also the name given to at least nine different Israelite men mentioned in various historical and genealogical records.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4317}}` is most prominently featured in the book of Daniel, where Michael is a celestial being of high rank. He is described as "one of the chief princes" who comes to help in a spiritual conflict against the "prince of the kingdom of Persia" [[Daniel 10:13]]. Michael is identified as the specific guardian of the people of Israel, called "your prince" [[Daniel 10:21]] and "the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people" [[Daniel 12:1]]. Beyond this angelic role, the name Michael is used to identify numerous individuals, including a son of King Jehoshaphat [[2 Chronicles 21:2]], a captain from the tribe of Manasseh [[1 Chronicles 12:20]], and several men listed as fathers or ancestors in tribal genealogies ([[Numbers 13:13]]; [[1 Chronicles 27:18]]; [[Ezra 8:8]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the role and context of Michael, both the archangel and the men bearing the name:
* `{{H8269}}` **sar** (prince): This title is repeatedly used to define Michael's high rank and authority in the heavenly realm, as he is called a "prince" three times in Daniel ([[Daniel 10:13]], 10:21, 12:1).
* `{{H5975}}` **ʻâmad** (to stand): This word describes Michael's primary function as a defender who "standeth for" and will "stand up" for the people of Israel in a time of great trouble [[Daniel 12:1]].
* `{{H5826}}` **ʻâzar** (help, succour): This term highlights Michael's role as a divine helper, as he "came to help" the angelic messenger during a period of spiritual opposition [[Daniel 10:13]].
* `{{H2388}}` **châzaq** (to seize, be strong): This word signifies strength and support, used to describe how Michael is the only one who "holdeth with" or strengthens the speaker against opposing forces [[Daniel 10:21]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): This word is fundamental to the non-angelic use of the name, frequently appearing in genealogical contexts to establish lineage, as in "Sethur the son of Michael" [[Numbers 13:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4317}}` is centered on the archangel Michael's function as a divine agent.
* **Guardian Prince of Israel:** Michael is explicitly designated as the celestial prince responsible for protecting God's people, demonstrating a theme of specific angelic guardianship over nations [[Daniel 12:1]].
* **Protagonist in Spiritual Warfare:** The account of Michael contending with the prince of Persia reveals a biblical understanding of unseen spiritual battles that influence earthly events. His intervention is shown to be decisive [[Daniel 10:13]].
* **Eschatological Deliverer:** Michael's act of "standing up" is directly tied to a future time of unparalleled distress, after which God's people will be delivered. This positions him as a key figure in biblical prophecy concerning the end times [[Daniel 12:1]].
* **Unique Heavenly Ally:** Michael is presented as a singular source of strength and support for other angelic beings carrying out God's will, underscoring his unique power and importance in the heavenly hierarchy [[Daniel 10:21]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4317}}` is more than just a name; it is a declaration of God's incomparability. While used as a common name to establish identity and lineage for men in Israel, its most significant application is for the archangel Michael. In this capacity, the name represents divine strength, protection, and intervention. Michael serves as a guardian, a warrior in spiritual conflicts, and a key figure in the prophesied deliverance of God's people, making the name a symbol of heavenly power acting on behalf of the faithful.
TRV