The Hebrew word Mêyshaʻ, represented by H4338, is the proper name Mesha, identifying a Moabite figure. The base definition also suggests a variation for a word meaning safety. This name appears 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible.
The single biblical appearance of Mêyshaʻ H4338 is in a historical account describing a political and economic relationship. In this narrative, Mesha is identified as the king H4428 of Moab H4124 who was also a sheepmaster H5349. As part of his vassalage, he rendered H7725 a massive annual tribute to the king H4428 of Israel H3478, consisting of one hundred H3967 thousand H505 lambs H3733 and one hundred H3967 thousand H505 rams H352, including their wool H6785 2 Kings 3:4.
Several related words from this account provide deeper context for the role of Mesha:
- H4428 melek (king): This word for a king or royal figure is central to the narrative, defining the status of both Mesha and his Israelite counterpart. The term is applied to human rulers, but also elevates to describe God as the King of Israel Isaiah 44:6.
- H4124 Môwʼâb (Moab): This identifies the territory and descendants of Moab, the son of Lot. As king of this nation, Mesha is placed within a long history of interactions with Israel, including being the subject of prophecy Numbers 24:17.
- H5349 nôqêd (sheepmaster): Describing Mesha's role as a sheepmaster or herdman, this term highlights the source of his kingdom's wealth. The same term is used to describe the prophet Amos, who was "among the herdmen of Tekoa" Amos 1:1.
- H7725 shûwb (to turn back): Used here to mean rendered or paid back, this versatile root word often carries the theological meaning of turning back or returning to God, as when Samuel urges Israel to return unto the LORD with all their hearts 1 Samuel 7:3.
While the name Mesha itself is mentioned only once, the context of its use carries significant weight.
- Earthly Kingdoms: The account of Mesha H4338 and his tribute illustrates the dynamic between earthly kingdoms, with their wealth, power, and political obligations 2 Kings 3:4. This is set against the larger biblical theme that the Lord is the ultimate king H4428 over all the earth Zechariah 14:9.
- Tribute and Wealth: The immense scale of the tribute—hundreds of thousands of animals—underscores the wealth derived from livestock in the ancient world. The payment of lambs H3733 and rams H352 served not only as a political act but also as a reminder of the resources God provides, which are sometimes used for sacrifices demanded by the Lord Micah 6:7.
- Moab's Role: As the king of Moab H4124, Mesha represents a nation with a complex and often adversarial relationship with Israel. The dossier shows Moab as a nation subject to God's judgment and prophecy, reminding readers that historical events are part of a divine plan Amos 2:1.
In summary, Mêyshaʻ H4338 is a name tied to a specific historical figure: a wealthy king of Moab known for his role as a sheepmaster. Though appearing just once, his story provides a vivid snapshot of the political and economic realities of the time. The context of this verse connects his identity to broader biblical themes of kingship, national tribute, and the sovereign oversight of God in the affairs of nations like Israel and Moab.
TRV