### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **malʼak**, represented by `{{H4398}}`, is the term for an **angel**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. It is the Aramaic corresponding term to the Hebrew מֲלְאָךְ and refers to a divine messenger sent by God.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H4398}}` appears exclusively in the book of Daniel, where an angel acts as an agent of God's direct intervention and deliverance. In one instance, Nebuchadnezzar praises the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego for having **sent** His **angel** to deliver His servants from the fiery furnace [[Daniel 3:28]]. Similarly, Daniel tells King Darius that his God **sent** His **angel** to shut the mouths of the lions, protecting him because of the innocency found in him [[Daniel 6:22]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the role and context of the **malʼak**:
* `{{H7972}}` **shᵉlach** (to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)): This verb is used in both instances to describe the divine action of dispatching the angel to perform a specific mission ([[Daniel 3:28]], [[Daniel 6:22]]).
* `{{H426}}` **ʼĕlâhh** (God, god): This is the Aramaic word for God, who is always identified as the one who sends the angel ([[Daniel 3:28]], [[Daniel 6:22]]).
* `{{H5649}}` **ʻăbad** (a servant): This term describes the faithful individuals whom the angel is sent to deliver, emphasizing their relationship with the God they trusted [[Daniel 3:28]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4398}}` is focused on God's power to save.
* **Divine Agency:** The angel does not act independently but is explicitly **sent** by God. This reinforces that the deliverance comes directly from God Himself, with the angel serving as His instrument ([[Daniel 3:28]], [[Daniel 6:22]]).
* **Protection of the Faithful:** The angel's mission is one of protection and rescue in response to unwavering faith. It is sent to deliver God's **servants** who trusted in Him [[Daniel 3:28]] and to preserve Daniel, in whom innocency was found [[Daniel 6:22]].
* **Manifestation of God's Power:** The angel's intervention serves as a public sign of God's supreme power over worldly forces, whether it be a king's decree or a den of lions. This causes even pagan kings to bless God [[Daniel 3:28]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4398}}` is a specific term for an **angel** used in contexts of miraculous deliverance. Though its use is infrequent, it plays a crucial role in the narrative of Daniel, illustrating God's readiness to dispatch His heavenly messengers to protect and vindicate His faithful servants in times of extreme peril.
TRV