### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **melek**, represented by `{{H4428}}`, is the primary biblical term for **king**. Derived from the verb מָלַךְ (mâlak), meaning "to reign" `{{H4427}}`, it appears **2523 times** in **1922 verses**. The word's frequent use highlights its central role in defining sovereignty, authority, and leadership, whether human or divine.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H4428}}` is used in multiple significant contexts. It identifies earthly rulers, both Israelite and foreign, such as David, **king** of Israel [[2 Samuel 7:18]], Pharaoh, **king** of Egypt [[Exodus 2:23]], and Cyrus, **king** of Persia [[Ezra 1:1]]. More profoundly, the title is applied to God to declare His ultimate sovereignty over all creation. Isaiah sees a vision of "the **King**, the LORD of hosts" [[Isaiah 6:5]], and Zechariah prophesies a time when "the LORD shall be **king** over all the earth" [[Zechariah 14:9]]. The term also carries messianic weight, pointing to a future ruler from the line of David who "a **King** shall reign and prosper" [[Jeremiah 23:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the scope of kingship and rule:
* `{{H4427}}` **mâlak** (to reign): This is the root verb from which **melek** is derived, describing the action of ruling. Scripture promises a future **King** `{{H4428}}` who "shall reign `{{H4427}}` and prosper" [[Jeremiah 23:5]].
* `{{H4438}}` **malkûwth** (kingdom, realm, reign): This noun defines the dominion and empire of a king. Cyrus, **king** `{{H4428}}` of Persia, sent a proclamation throughout all his **kingdom** `{{H4438}}` [[Ezra 1:1]].
* `{{H113}}` **ʼâdôwn** (lord, master, owner): Signifying authority and sovereignty, this term highlights a key attribute of a king. The psalmist describes the **king** `{{H4428}}` as a figure of authority, calling him "thy **Lord** `{{H113}}`" [[Psalms 45:11]].
* `{{H5057}}` **nâgîyd** (captain, chief, prince, ruler): This word denotes a leader or commander, often appointed by divine authority. David was designated to be a **captain** `{{H5057}}` over Israel before he was made **king** `{{H4428}}` [[2 Samuel 5:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4428}}` is immense, shaping the understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The title of **King** establishes God as the supreme ruler over all creation. He is the "great **King** above all gods" [[Psalms 95:3]] and the "everlasting **king**" whose wrath makes the earth tremble [[Jeremiah 10:10]]. In a definitive declaration, the LORD is called "the **King** of Israel," beside whom there is no other God [[Isaiah 44:6]].
* **Human Authority Under God:** The Bible portrays human kings as instruments under God's ultimate authority. The **king's** heart is in God's hand, to be turned wherever He wills [[Proverbs 21:1]]. For disobedience, God can reject a ruler, as when He rejected Saul from being **king** [[1 Samuel 15:23]].
* **Messianic Hope:** Scripture uses `{{H4428}}` to build anticipation for the Messiah. This coming **King** will be just and bring salvation [[Zechariah 9:9]]. God promises to raise up "David my servant" to be **king** over His people, establishing a righteous rule [[Ezekiel 37:24]].
### Summary
In summary, **melek** `{{H4428}}` is far more than a political title; it is a foundational concept in scripture for understanding power, justice, and divine order. Its meaning extends from earthly monarchs like Solomon and Nebuchadrezzar to the one true "King of glory" [[Psalms 24:7]]. The word establishes God's absolute sovereignty and provides the framework for the promise of a future Messianic **King** who will rule in righteousness and save His people. It demonstrates that all earthly authority is ultimately derived from and accountable to the LORD, the **King** of all [[Zephaniah 3:15]].
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