### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **melek**, represented by `{{H4430}}`, is the primary term for a **king** or a royal figure. It appears 180 times across 131 unique verses in the Bible. This word is used to describe both powerful earthly monarchs and, significantly, God as the ultimate sovereign ruler.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4430}}` is central to the accounts in Daniel and Ezra, defining the relationship between God's people and the ruling powers of Babylon and Persia. It is used to identify specific rulers like Nebuchadnezzar, who set up a golden image and demanded worship [[Daniel 3:1]], and Darius, who was tricked into casting Daniel into the lions' den [[Daniel 6:16]]. The word also highlights the limits of a king's power in the face of God's authority, as when Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego defy the **king** [[Daniel 3:18]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concepts of kingship and governance:
* `{{H4437}}` **malkûw** (dominion (abstractly or concretely); kingdom, kingly, realm, reign): This word defines the domain and authority of a **king**. It is used to describe both human realms, like the **kingdom** of Babylon [[Daniel 4:30]], and the eternal **kingdom** God will establish [[Daniel 2:44]].
* `{{H7981}}` **shᵉlêṭ** ({to dominate, i.e. govern; by implication, to permit}; have the mastery, have power, bear rule, be (make) ruler): This term describes the action of ruling that a **king** performs. Daniel, for example, was made **ruler** over the province of Babylon [[Daniel 2:48]].
* `{{H324}}` **ʼăchashdarpan** ({a satrap or governorof amain province (of Persia)}; prince): This refers to high-ranking officials who serve the **king** and govern parts of his realm [[Daniel 6:3]].
* `{{H4756}}` **mârêʼ** (a master; lord, Lord): This word for "lord" or "master" is used to show ultimate authority. God is identified as a "**Lord** of **kings**," placing Him in authority over every earthly monarch [[Daniel 2:47]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4430}}` is immense, particularly in the book of Daniel.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The narrative repeatedly emphasizes that God is in control of earthly power. It is He who "removeth **kings**{H4430}, and setteth up **kings**{H4430}" [[Daniel 2:21]], demonstrating that human rulers hold their positions only by His decree.
* **God as Supreme King:** The title of **king** is explicitly applied to God. After being humbled, Nebuchadnezzar praises and honors the "**King** of heaven" [[Daniel 4:37]], acknowledging a higher sovereign.
* **Prophetic Authority:** The word is crucial for understanding prophecy. Daniel's visions lay out a succession of earthly **kings** and kingdoms, all of which will ultimately be consumed by the everlasting kingdom that the God of heaven will set up ([[Daniel 2:44]], [[Daniel 7:24]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4430}}` is more than just a political title. It is a cornerstone concept in the Aramaic portions of Scripture, used to explore the nature of power, authority, and divine providence. It contrasts the temporary and often prideful rule of human **kings** with the eternal, just, and sovereign reign of God, the **King** of heaven.
TRV