### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mimshâl**, represented by `{{H4474}}`, refers to a **ruler** or, more abstractly, **rule** and **dominion**. It is derived from the root verb **mâshal** `{{H4910}}`, meaning "to rule." Despite its significant meaning, it is a rare term, appearing only **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4474}}` is used to describe immense earthly power. In the book of Daniel, it characterizes the "great **dominion**" of a prophesied mighty king [[Daniel 11:3]]. It is used again to describe the scope of another king's power, emphasizing that his rule will be a "great **dominion**" [[Daniel 11:5]]. In contrast, 1 Chronicles uses the word in a familial context, describing sons who **ruled** within the house of their father, highlighting their leadership and authority within the clan [[1 Chronicles 26:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of rule and authority:
* `{{H4910}}` **mâshal**: As the primitive root, this verb means **to rule**. It forms the foundation for `{{H4474}}`, representing the act of having dominion, as seen when a person "that **ruleth** his spirit" is praised [[Proverbs 16:32]].
* `{{H4475}}` **memshâlâh**: The feminine form of `{{H4474}}`, this word also means **rule** or **dominion**. It appears alongside `{{H4474}}` to describe a king's dominion [[Daniel 11:5]] and is also used to describe God's cosmic rule over the day and night [[Genesis 1:16]].
* `{{H4428}}` **melek**: Meaning **a king**, this term identifies the one who wields dominion. The great dominion mentioned in Daniel is held by a **king** ([[Daniel 11:3]], [[Daniel 11:5]]), linking the abstract concept of rule to a concrete figure of authority.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4474}}` is understood primarily through its application to human structures of authority.
* **Scope of Human Authority:** In Daniel, the word is used to define the boundaries of powerful, earthly kingdoms. A "mighty king" will "rule with great **dominion**, and do according to his will," illustrating the significant sovereignty granted to human rulers [[Daniel 11:3]].
* **Familial and Clan Leadership:** The term is not limited to empires. Its use in [[1 Chronicles 26:6]] shows that recognized authority exists at the family level, where sons **ruled** in their father's house because they were "mighty men of valour."
* **Dominion and Might:** The word's association with **mighty** `{{H1368}}` ([[Daniel 11:3]], [[1 Chronicles 26:6]]) and **great** `{{H7227}}` ([[Daniel 11:3]], [[Daniel 11:5]]) emphasizes that this form of rule is characterized by strength and effectiveness.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4474}}` is a precise and potent word for **dominion**. While used sparingly, its appearances in scripture are significant, portraying both the vast rule of earthly kings and the foundational authority within a family structure. It is closely tied to the verb **to rule** `{{H4910}}` and figures, like a **king** `{{H4428}}`, who exercise it. Through `mimshâl`, the Bible depicts a world where authority and rule are tangible realities at every level of society.
TRV