from an unused root meaning to despatch as a deputy; a messenger; specifically, of God, i.e. an angel (also a prophet, priest or teacher); ambassador, angel, king, messenger.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mălʼâk**, represented by `{{H4397}}`, primarily means **messenger**. It appears 214 times in 197 verses and is most commonly translated as **angel**. The term's application is broad, referring to a dispatched deputy, which can be a divine being, a prophet, a priest, or even a royal ambassador.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H4397}}` is used to identify both heavenly beings and human agents. As divine beings, the **angels** of God are seen ascending and descending a ladder to heaven [[Genesis 28:12]]. A figure identified as "the **angel** of the LORD" appears to men in a flame of fire [[Exodus 3:2]], encamps around those who fear God [[Psalms 34:7]], and brings messages of promise [[Genesis 16:11]]. The term also describes humans in specific roles: priests are called the **messenger** of the LORD [[Malachi 2:7]], and prophets are referred to as God's **messengers** [[Isaiah 44:26]]. Kings and rulers also send **messengers** or **ambassadors** to conduct their affairs ([[2 Kings 1:2]], [[Ezekiel 17:15]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the function and context of a **mălʼâk**:
* `{{H7971}}` **shâlach** (to send away): This verb describes the fundamental action of dispatching a messenger. God promises, "I **send** an Angel before thee" [[Exodus 23:20]], and kings **send** messengers to inquire of other gods [[2 Kings 1:2]].
* `{{H4400}}` **malʼăkûwth** (a message): This directly related noun refers to the content carried by a messenger. The prophet Haggai is identified as the "LORD'S **messenger** in the LORD'S **message**" [[Haggai 1:13]].
* `{{H5030}}` **nâbîyʼ** (a prophet): This term is used in parallel with messenger, showing that prophets are understood to be God's spokespeople. Israel mocked God's **messengers** and misused His **prophets** [[2 Chronicles 36:16]].
* `{{H3548}}` **kôhên** (a priest): This office is explicitly linked to the messenger role, as the people are to seek the law from the priest's mouth, "for he is the **messenger** of the LORD of hosts" [[Malachi 2:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H4397}}` is profound, illustrating the connection between God and humanity.
* **Divine Communication:** Messengers are a primary means by which God conveys His will, promises, and warnings to people on earth, as when the **angel** of God speaks to Jacob in a dream [[Genesis 31:11]].
* **Protection and Deliverance:** Angels often act as divine protectors. God gives his **angels** charge to guard the faithful [[Psalms 91:11]], and the **angel** of the LORD delivers those who fear Him [[Psalms 34:7]]. Jacob identifies "The **Angel** which redeemed me from all evil" [[Genesis 48:16]].
* **Execution of Judgment:** Messengers can also be instruments of God's judgment, as when the **angel** of the LORD smote the Assyrian camp [[Isaiah 37:36]] or stretched out his hand to destroy Jerusalem [[2 Samuel 24:16]].
* **Human Representation:** By applying the term to prophets and priests, Scripture elevates their roles, identifying them as official deputies tasked with speaking and acting on God's behalf ([[Haggai 1:13]], [[Malachi 2:7]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4397}}` defines a role far more versatile than the modern conception of an angel. As a **messenger**, it describes any agent—divine or human—dispatched to carry out a specific task. From heavenly beings communicating God's will to prophets and priests teaching His law, the word **mălʼâk** underscores the biblical theme of divine communication, protection, and representation in the world.
TRV