### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **malkâʼ**, represented by `{{H4433}}`, is the term for **queen**. It is a rare word, appearing only **2 times** in **1 unique verse** within the biblical text. As the Aramaic corresponding word to the Hebrew מַלְכָּה, its usage is confined to the book of Daniel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H4433}}` is in the narrative of Belshazzar's feast. After a mysterious hand writes on the wall, the king and his lords are terrified. It is at this moment of crisis that the **queen** enters the banquet house, having heard the commotion [[Daniel 5:10]]. The text explicitly states she came "by reason of the words of the king and his lords." The **queen** then addresses the king directly, offering a traditional greeting, "O king, live for ever," before advising him, "let not thy thoughts trouble thee, nor let thy countenance be changed" [[Daniel 5:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words in the passage provide context for the **queen's** appearance:
* `{{H4430}}` **melek** (a king): As the male equivalent, this word is central. The **queen** appears in response to the distress of the **king** and his court, defining her role in relation to the primary ruler [[Daniel 5:10]].
* `{{H7261}}` **rabrᵉbân** (a magnate; lord, prince): The disturbance that prompts the queen's entrance involved both the king and his **lords**, indicating the panic had affected the entire royal council and her counsel was needed [[Daniel 5:10]].
* `{{H1005}}` **bayith** (a house): Her entrance into the banquet **house** signifies her access to and authority within the royal domain, a place of both family and official state function [[Daniel 5:10]].
* `{{H7476}}` **raʻyôwn** (a grasp. i.e. (figuratively) mental conception; cogitation, thought): She speaks directly to the king's troubled **thoughts**, showing her purpose is to bring mental and emotional clarity to the situation [[Daniel 5:10]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative significance of `{{H4433}}` is tied to the unique role the **queen** plays in this specific event.
* **A Source of Counsel:** The **queen** enters a scene where the king's leadership has failed. His thoughts `{{H7476}}` trouble `{{H927}}` him and his countenance `{{H2122}}` is changed `{{H8133}}`. She provides stability and advice when the king and his lords are lost in fear.
* **Repository of History:** While the current leadership is unaware of a solution, the **queen** acts as the memory of the kingdom. She recalls that an "excellent spirit, and knowledge, and understanding" were found in Daniel and advises the king to call for him [[Daniel 5:12]].
* **Voice of Composure:** Her measured speech, which begins with the formal address "O king, live for ever" `{{H2418}}`, restores a sense of protocol and order to a chaotic scene, showcasing her wisdom and authority [[Daniel 5:10]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4433}}` **malkâʼ** is a specific Aramaic term for **queen** whose limited use is highly impactful. Her appearance in Daniel 5 is pivotal, as she is not presented as a mere royal consort but as a figure of unique wisdom and authority. The **queen** steps in to provide calm counsel and crucial information, guiding the terrified king when all other advisors have failed and demonstrating a powerful influence within the royal court.
TRV