### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mamlâkâh**, represented by `{{H4467}}`, refers to dominion, realm, or **kingdom**. Derived from the verb מָלַךְ (to reign), it appears 117 times across 113 verses. The term can describe a physical country or realm, as well as the abstract concept of rule or the estate of a king.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H4467}}` is used to describe both divine and human domains of authority. The LORD's ultimate sovereignty is declared with the words, "thine is the **kingdom**, O LORD" [[1 Chronicles 29:11]]. The term also defines the scope of God's judgment and power over all nations, as He is the ruler "over all the **kingdoms** of the heathen" [[2 Chronicles 20:6]]. God appoints prophets over **kingdoms** to build and to destroy [[Jeremiah 1:10]]. God also establishes earthly rule, promising to make David's **kingdom** and throne endure forever [[2 Samuel 7:16]]. The destiny of Israel is framed as being a "**kingdom** of priests" [[Exodus 19:6]], and its history is marked by its division into two **kingdoms** [[Ezekiel 37:22]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller understanding of the concept of a kingdom:
* `{{H4427}}` **mâlak** (to reign): As the root verb of `{{H4467}}`, this word is foundational to the idea of a kingdom, signifying the act of ruling or ascending the throne. Its usage is seen in the declaration that a chosen individual will "surely be king" [[1 Samuel 24:20]].
* `{{H4428}}` **melek** (a king): This term refers to the ruler of a kingdom and is frequently used alongside `{{H4467}}` to specify the head of the realm, such as Nebuchadrezzar, **king** of Babylon, who smites the **kingdoms** of Hazor [[Jeremiah 49:28]].
* `{{H3678}}` **kiççêʼ** (throne): This word denotes the seat of power within a kingdom. The promise to David involves establishing the **throne** of his **kingdom** forever [[2 Samuel 7:13]], while God's judgment involves overthrowing the **throne** of **kingdoms** [[Haggai 2:22]].
* `{{H4475}}` **memshâlâh** (rule, dominion): This term for dominion is used in parallel with `{{H4467}}`, as when the "first dominion; the **kingdom** shall come to the daughter of Jerusalem" [[Micah 4:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H4467}}` is profound, defining the structure of divine authority and covenantal promises.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The word establishes God as the ultimate ruler over all creation. He is God alone "of all the **kingdoms** of the earth" [[Isaiah 37:16]] and his own **kingdom** is eternal [[1 Chronicles 29:11]].
* **Covenant with David:** The concept of an everlasting **kingdom** is central to God's covenant with David, promising that his house and his **kingdom** will be established forever [[2 Samuel 7:16]]. This promise was given as a "covenant of salt" [[2 Chronicles 13:5]].
* **A People for God:** Israel is set apart as a unique nation, designated as a "**kingdom** of priests, and an holy nation" [[Exodus 19:6]], pointing to their special role and relationship with God.
* **Subject to Judgment:** Earthly kingdoms are subject to God's authority and judgment. God can pollute a **kingdom** and its princes [[Lamentations 2:2]], destroy the strength of the **kingdoms** of the heathen [[Haggai 2:22]], and gather them for judgment [[Zephaniah 3:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4467}}` **mamlâkâh** is a term that encompasses far more than a geographical or political entity. It is a key biblical concept that illustrates the scope of power, from the temporal reigns of human kings to the absolute and eternal dominion of God. The word serves as a framework for understanding divine sovereignty, covenantal promises to Israel, and the ultimate accountability of all earthly powers to the King of all kings.
TRV