### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **malkûwth**, represented by `{{H4438}}`, defines the concept of a **kingdom**. It appears 91 times across 82 unique verses in the Bible. Based on the root word for "to reign," it signifies a rule, dominion, or empire, and can also be used adjectivally to mean royal.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4438}}` is used to describe both earthly and divine sovereignties. It frequently refers to the territory and authority of human rulers, such as the "kingdom of Ahasuerus" [[Esther 3:6]] or the "realm of Persia" [[Daniel 11:2]]. The word can also denote the period of a monarch's rule, as in "the first year of his reign" [[Jeremiah 52:31]]. Beyond a physical realm, it describes royal status and attributes, as when Queen Esther puts on her "royal apparel" [[Esther 5:1]]. Thematically, it stands in contrast to God's ultimate authority, whose "kingdom ruleth over all" [[Psalms 103:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of kingship and dominion:
* `{{H4427}}` **mâlak** (to reign): This is the root verb from which `{{H4438}}` is derived, signifying the action of reigning or ascending the throne. A person may come out of prison "to reign" [[Ecclesiastes 4:14]].
* `{{H4428}}` **melek** (a king): This term refers to the ruler himself, the one who possesses the kingdom. The proclamations of Cyrus, "king of Persia," were sent throughout all his "kingdom" [[Ezra 1:1]].
* `{{H4910}}` **mâshal** (to rule): This verb describes the act of exercising dominion or power, often used to characterize the function of a kingdom, as in the declaration that God's kingdom "ruleth over all" [[Psalms 103:19]].
* `{{H8269}}` **sar** (a head person): This word denotes a prince, captain, or ruler within a kingdom. Daniel speaks of a spiritual conflict involving the "prince of the kingdom of Persia" [[Daniel 10:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4438}}` is immense. It is central to understanding God's sovereignty and His covenantal promises.
* **Divine and Everlasting Rule:** Scripture distinguishes earthly kingdoms from God's, declaring, "Thy kingdom is an everlasting kingdom" [[Psalms 145:13]]. This highlights a dominion that is not bound by time or geography, with a throne prepared in the heavens [[Psalms 103:19]].
* **Covenantal Promise:** The term is key to the promise made to David. God pledges to establish the throne of his son's "kingdom" over Israel forever [[1 Chronicles 22:10]], identifying this lineage with "the kingdom of the LORD" [[1 Chronicles 28:5]].
* **Sovereignty in Human Affairs:** The concept is used to illustrate God's power working through and over human empires. God stirred the spirit of Cyrus, king of Persia, to act throughout his "kingdom" [[Ezra 1:1]], and Esther came to her royal position "for such a time as this" [[Esther 4:14]], showing divine purpose within earthly structures.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4438}}` is a multifaceted term that conveys more than just a political territory. It encompasses the authority, duration, and royal nature of a reign, whether human or divine. The word forms a crucial part of biblical theology, contrasting the finite and often corruptible kingdoms of man with the eternal, righteous, and all-encompassing kingdom of God.
TRV