### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **millâh**, represented by `{{H4406}}`, is a versatile term for a **word**, **command**, **discourse**, or **subject**. It appears 24 times across 22 unique verses in the Bible. Its meaning is broad, encompassing not only a spoken utterance but also a general matter, thing, or official commandment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the book of Daniel, `{{H4406}}` is used in several distinct contexts. It can refer to a royal edict, as when Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego "changed the king's **word**" by defying his command to worship an idol [[Daniel 3:28]]. It also describes spoken utterances, such as the prophetic warning of a figure who will "speak great **words** against the most High" [[Daniel 7:25]]. Furthermore, it is used more generally to signify a "matter" or "thing," as when Daniel makes the **thing** known to his companions [[Daniel 2:17]] or when he keeps the visionary **matter** in his heart [[Daniel 7:28]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words clarify the meaning of `{{H4406}}`:
* `{{H560}}` **ʼămar** (to say): This verb is frequently used to describe the act of communicating a **millâh**. The Chaldeans were accused of preparing corrupt **words** to **speak** before the king [[Daniel 2:9]].
* `{{H1882}}` **dâth** (decree, law): This term connects to the authoritative nature of a **millâh**. A royal command is affirmed as a true **thing** `{{H4406}}` according to the **law** `{{H1882}}` of the Medes and Persians [[Daniel 6:12]].
* `{{H3046}}` **yᵉdaʻ** (to know, make known): This verb is central to revealing a **millâh**. Daniel's companions desire that God would **make known** the king's **matter** `{{H4406}}` to them [[Daniel 2:23]], and Arioch **made the thing** `{{H4406}}` **known** to Daniel [[Daniel 2:15]].
* `{{H4449}}` **mᵉlal** (to speak): This verb directly relates to `{{H4406}}` as a spoken word. A horn in Daniel's vision has a mouth that **spake** great **words** `{{H4406}}` [[Daniel 7:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4406}}` is evident in its usage throughout Daniel's prophetic accounts.
* **Divine vs. Human Authority:** The term highlights the conflict between earthly power and divine faithfulness. While Nebuchadnezzar issues a **word** `{{H4406}}` as a command, his servants defy it to honor God [[Daniel 3:28]]. A future ruler will use "great **words**" `{{H4406}}` to oppose the Most High [[Daniel 7:25]].
* **Revelation of Divine Matters:** A **millâh** often represents a secret or subject that only God can reveal. The wise men of Babylon cannot show the king's **matter** `{{H4406}}` [[Daniel 2:10]], but God makes it known to Daniel [[Daniel 2:23]]. God provides the interpretation of the **thing** `{{H4406}}` written on the wall [[Daniel 5:26]].
* **Carrier of Truth or Falsehood:** The context of a **millâh** determines its nature. The Chaldeans are accused of preparing "lying and corrupt **words**" `{{H4406}}` [[Daniel 2:9]], while a royal decree is confirmed as a "true" **thing** `{{H4406}}` [[Daniel 6:12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4406}}` is more than a simple term for "word." It functions as a key Aramaic concept in Scripture, denoting a matter of great importance, a royal command, or a divinely revealed truth. Its use in the book of Daniel consistently places it at the center of conflicts between human decrees and divine will, underscoring that a "matter" or "command" carries immense weight in the outworking of God's sovereign plan.
TRV