### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Malʼâkîy**, represented by `{{H4401}}`, is defined as **ministrative; Malaki, a prophet; Malachi**. This name is exceptionally specific in its biblical usage, as it appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**. Its significance lies in its direct identification of the prophet who delivered the final book of the Old Testament prophetic writings.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H4401}}` is found in the introductory verse of the book bearing this name. [[Malachi 1:1]] opens by stating, "The burden of the word of the LORD to Israel by **Malachi**." This verse establishes Malachi's identity not as the originator of the message, but as the chosen vehicle through whom God communicates. The name serves as a direct attribution, linking the man to the divine prophecy that follows.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{H4401}}` in [[Malachi 1:1]] is illuminated by the key words surrounding it:
* `{{H4853}}` **massâʼ** (a burden; figuratively, an utterance, chiefly adoom, prophecy): This word describes the nature of the message Malachi delivers. It is a weighty, serious prophecy from God, a concept also seen in the introductions to other prophetic oracles, such as "The burden of Babylon" [[Isaiah 13:1]].
* `{{H1697}}` **dâbâr** (a word; a matter or thing): This specifies that the "burden" is a divine "word." The phrase "word of the LORD" is a common formula for divine revelation, seen when it came to Abram in a vision [[Genesis 15:1]].
* `{{H3068}}` **Yᵉhôvâh** (Jehovah, the Lord): This identifies the ultimate source of the word and the burden. The message comes from the self-existent, eternal God, in whom his people are to trust [[Proverbs 3:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4401}}` is derived entirely from its role in the prophetic tradition.
* **Prophetic Messenger:** The name's definition, "ministrative," aligns perfectly with the function of a prophet. Malachi serves God by carrying His message to Israel, as established in the book's opening line [[Malachi 1:1]].
* **Source of Authority:** The use of the name immediately connects a human messenger to the divine source, `{{H3068}}` **Yᵉhôvâh**. The prophecy is not Malachi's opinion but is explicitly "the word of the LORD," making it authoritative.
* **The Gravity of God's Word:** The message delivered by Malachi is described as a `{{H4853}}` **massâʼ**, or "burden." This signifies the immense seriousness and weight of divine communication, underscoring that God's word to His people is consequential and demands attention.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H4401}}` **Malʼâkîy** appears just once, its placement is of foundational importance. It gives a name to the final prophetic voice of the Old Testament, tying the messenger directly to his divine commission. The name functions to authenticate the prophecy that follows as an authoritative and weighty "burden of the word of the LORD," delivered by His designated servant, Malachi.
TRV