### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mᵉlûwkâh**, represented by `{{H4410}}`, defines "something ruled," such as a realm or kingdom. Derived from the verb `{{H4427}}` `mâlak` (to reign), it appears 24 times across 23 verses. While its primary meaning is **kingdom**, it is also used idiomatically to convey the idea of **king's** or **royal** status.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4410}}` often signifies the transfer of power and authority. Adonijah laments that the **kingdom** was turned from him to Solomon, acknowledging "it was his from the LORD" [[1 Kings 2:15]]. This divine appointment is a recurring theme, as God "turned the **kingdom** unto David" [[1 Chronicles 10:14]] and later "delivered the **kingdom** into the hand of Absalom" [[2 Samuel 16:8]]. The term also specifies royal lineage, as in the description of Ishmael as being "of the **seed** royal" [[Jeremiah 41:1]]. Ultimately, scripture declares that "the **kingdom** is the LORD'S" [[Psalms 22:28]], establishing God's supreme ownership over all realms.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the scope of `{{H4410}}`:
* `{{H4427}}` **mâlak** (to reign): As the root verb, this word describes the act of reigning itself. It is the action a king performs over his `mᵉlûwkâh` [[1 Samuel 16:1]].
* `{{H4428}}` **melek** (a king): This is the ruler who governs the `mᵉlûwkâh`. The two terms define the ruler and his realm [[Isaiah 44:6]].
* `{{H2233}}` **zeraʻ** (seed; posterity): This word is used with `mᵉlûwkâh` to form the phrase "king's seed" or "seed royal," referring to the royal bloodline and succession [[Daniel 1:3]].
* `{{H3678}}` **kiççêʼ** (throne): The throne is the physical seat of authority within the `mᵉlûwkâh`. Solomon is described as sitting "on the throne of the **kingdom**," linking his position to the realm he rules [[1 Kings 1:46]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4410}}` is centered on God's absolute control over earthly and divine rule.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The concept reinforces that God is the true king. The **kingdom** ultimately "shall be the LORD'S" [[Obadiah 1:21]], and He is the "governor" (`mâshal`) over all nations [[Psalms 22:28]].
* **Transience of Human Rule:** Earthly kingdoms are shown to be temporary and subject to God's will. The **kingdom** is something that can be taken [[1 Kings 11:35]], turned about [[1 Kings 2:15]], and delivered to others as God appoints, highlighting the conditional nature of human authority.
* **God's People as Royalty:** The meaning of `mᵉlûwkâh` extends beyond a political territory to describe the status of God's people. They are to be "a **royal** diadem" in the hand of the LORD [[Isaiah 62:3]], and Jerusalem's restoration is described as prospering "into a **kingdom**" [[Ezekiel 16:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4410}}` is a term rich with meaning, encompassing a physical realm, the authority to rule it, and the royal status associated with it. The word powerfully illustrates the biblical distinction between the temporary, transferable nature of human kingdoms and the eternal, sovereign **kingdom** that belongs exclusively to the LORD. It serves as a constant reminder of where ultimate authority resides.
TRV