### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **Mêyshak**, represented by `{{H4336}}`, is the Babylonian name for one of Daniel's companions. This name appears **14 times** across **13 unique verses**, exclusively within the book of Daniel. The name itself is of foreign origin and is almost always used in conjunction with his two companions, Shadrach and Abed-nego.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4336}}` identifies a key figure in a story of unwavering faith. **Meshach**, along with Shadrach and Abed-nego, was appointed over the affairs of the province of Babylon [[Daniel 2:49]]. Their story reaches its peak when they defy King Nebuchadnezzar's command to worship a golden image, stating they would not **serve** his gods [[Daniel 3:12]]. This refusal led to them being bound and cast into a "burning fiery furnace" [[Daniel 3:23]]. Miraculously, they were delivered by God, and Nebuchadnezzar called for them to come out of the fire, addressing them as "servants of the most high God" [[Daniel 3:26]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are central to the narrative of **Meshach**:
* `{{H7715}}` **Shadrak** (Shadrach): The Babylonian name for one of Meshach's companions. The two are consistently named together as part of a trio, as when they were accused before the king [[Daniel 3:12]].
* `{{H5665}}` **ʻĂbêd Nᵉgôwʼ** (Abed-nego): The third companion who stood with Shadrach and **Meshach** in their refusal to bow to the king's idol [[Daniel 3:16]].
* `{{H5649}}` **ʻăbad** (servant): This term defines their identity in relation to God. After their deliverance, Nebuchadnezzar blesses the God who "delivered his **servants** that trusted in him" [[Daniel 3:28]].
* `{{H6399}}` **pᵉlach** (to serve or worship): This action is at the core of the conflict. The men declare they will not **serve** the king's gods [[Daniel 3:14]], choosing instead to exclusively **serve** their own God [[Daniel 3:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H4336}}` is tied to the collective testimony of the three companions.
* **Uncompromising Faithfulness:** **Meshach** and his friends provide a powerful example of loyalty to God above human authority. Their refusal to "serve not thy gods, nor worship the golden image" [[Daniel 3:12]] demonstrates a commitment that does not waver, even when facing death.
* **Divine Deliverance:** The story highlights God's sovereignty and power to save those who trust in Him. Nebuchadnezzar's own words confirm that the "God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego...hath sent his angel, and delivered his servants" [[Daniel 3:28]].
* **Powerful Witness:** Their miraculous survival serves as a witness to a pagan king and his entire kingdom. It leads Nebuchadnezzar to decree that "there is no other God that can deliver after this sort" [[Daniel 3:29]], ultimately bringing glory to the God of Israel.
### Summary
In summary, **Mêyshak** `{{H4336}}` is more than a name; it represents a figure of profound integrity and faith. Always presented as part of an inseparable group, his story is one of collective courage in the face of idolatry and persecution. The narrative of **Meshach** and his companions in the fiery furnace remains a timeless testament to unwavering devotion to God and His power to deliver the faithful.
TRV