### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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