from an unused root meaning to apportion; a part; hence,; a musical chord (as parted into strings); in (the same) (Psalm 68:23), stringed instrument (Psalm 150:4), whereby (Psalm 45:8 (defective plural)).
Transliteration:mên
Pronunciation:mane
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H4482}}` (mên) is derived from an unused root, which is understood to convey the concept of "to apportion." This foundational meaning gives rise to its primary sense as "a part" or "a portion." From this semantic core, the word extends to more specific applications, notably in the realm of music. A "musical chord" can be understood as an apportionment of sound, or as being composed of "parts" (individual strings). Consequently, `{{H4482}}` also denotes a "stringed instrument," an object comprised of such "parts" or strings. The varied usage in its few biblical occurrences suggests a nuanced and somewhat fluid semantic range, encompassing both a substantive meaning of "part" or "instrument" and a more adverbial or prepositional function related to origin or means.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H4482}}` appears only three times in the Masoretic Text, each presenting unique interpretive challenges or specific applications:
1. **[[Psalm 68:23]]**: "The Lord said, 'I will bring them back from Bashan; I will bring them back from the depths of the sea, that your feet may wade in the blood of your foes, and the tongues of your dogs have their portion from them ([[H4482]]).'"
In this context, the translation of `{{H4482}}` is highly debated. While some ancient versions and modern translations render it as a prepositional phrase, such as "from them" (ESV, NIV, NASB), reflecting the root sense of "from a part" or "a portion from," the Strong's definition suggests "in (the same)." This particular usage is obscure, potentially functioning as an adverbial particle indicating origin or a direct object related to the preceding phrase. The imagery here is one of divine victory and judgment, where the enemies' blood is so abundant that even dogs have their "portion" from it. The ambiguity here underscores the rarity and semantic fluidity of the term in certain contexts.
2. **[[Psalm 45:8]]**: "All your garments are fragrant with myrrh and aloes and cassia. From ivory palaces stringed instruments ([[H4482]]) make you glad."
Here, `{{H4482}}` clearly refers to "stringed instruments." The context is a royal wedding psalm, celebrating the king's splendor and the joy associated with his reign. The music from these instruments contributes to the celebratory atmosphere and the king's delight. The Strong's note of "defective plural" indicates a specific grammatical form, but the meaning as a musical instrument is unambiguous in this verse. The sound emanating "from ivory palaces" signifies luxury, beauty, and the joyful ambiance of the royal court.
3. **[[Psalm 150:4]]**: "Praise him with tambourine and dance; praise him with stringed instruments ([[H4482]]) and pipe!"
Similar to [[Psalm 45:8]], this verse unequivocally uses `{{H4482}}` to denote "stringed instruments." This verse is part of the final psalm, a grand doxology calling all creation to praise the Lord with every available means, including a variety of musical instruments. The inclusion of `{{H4482}}` among other instruments like the tambourine, dance, and pipe highlights its role in corporate worship and the expression of praise to God.
### Related Words & Concepts
Given the rarity of `{{H4482}}`, direct cognates are not abundant. However, its semantic range connects it to several important biblical concepts and other Hebrew terms:
* **Music and Worship:** The most prominent conceptual link is to the extensive biblical tradition of music in worship. `{{H4482}}` stands alongside other Hebrew words for musical instruments, such as `{{H3658}}` (kinnor, "lyre" or "harp") and `{{H5035}}` (nebel, "harp" or "lute"), contributing to the rich vocabulary describing the instrumentation of Israelite praise.
* **Portion and Division:** The root meaning of "to apportion" or "a part" resonates with terms like `{{H4480}}` (min), the highly common preposition "from" or "out of," which often denotes separation or origin. While `{{H4482}}` is distinct, its underlying semantic core of "part" or "portion" links it conceptually to ideas of distribution, allocation, and derivation.
* **Joy and Celebration:** In [[Psalm 45:8]], the instruments bring gladness, associating `{{H4482}}` with concepts of joy, celebration, and royal festivity. This aligns with other passages where music accompanies moments of rejoicing and triumph.
* **Divine Sovereignty and Provision:** If the interpretation of `{{H4482}}` in [[Psalm 68:23]] leans towards "from them" or "a portion from," it subtly connects to God's sovereign hand in judgment and provision, bringing forth outcomes from specific sources.
### Theological Significance
Despite its limited occurrences and occasional interpretive ambiguity, the theological significance of `{{H4482}}` can be discerned primarily through its clear usage in the context of musical instruments and praise.
1. **Theology of Praise and Worship:** The most direct theological contribution of `{{H4482}}` is its role in the lexicon of divine praise. In [[Psalm 150:4]], it is explicitly listed among the instruments used to "praise the Lord." This underscores the biblical emphasis on using all forms of artistic expression, including instrumental music, to glorify God. The very act of playing a "stringed instrument" (`{{H4482}}`) becomes an act of devotion, a tangible means by which humanity responds to God's greatness and holiness. This highlights that worship is not merely verbal but involves the full range of human creativity and skill.
2. **Beauty and Order in Creation:** The derivation of `{{H4482}}` from a root meaning "to apportion" and its application to musical chords and instruments subtly points to the inherent order and beauty within God's creation. Music, with its precise intervals and harmonies, reflects a divine ordering principle. The ability to create and appreciate such beauty is a gift from God, allowing humanity to participate in and reflect the divine aesthetic.
3. **Joy in God's Presence:** In [[Psalm 45:8]], the "stringed instruments" bring gladness to the king. By extension, instruments used in worship bring joy in the presence of the ultimate King, God Himself. This reinforces the idea that worship is not a somber duty but a joyful response to God's goodness and majesty.
### Summary
`{{H4482}}` (mên) is a rare Hebrew term stemming from an unused root signifying "to apportion." This root meaning gives rise to its primary sense as "a part" or "a portion." From this, it semantically extends to denote a "musical chord" and, most notably in its clear biblical occurrences, a "stringed instrument." While its usage in [[Psalm 68:23]] remains a subject of scholarly debate, potentially functioning as an adverbial or prepositional particle, its appearance in [[Psalm 45:8]] and [[Psalm 150:4]] unambiguously identifies it as a musical instrument. The theological significance of `{{H4482}}` is thus primarily found in its contribution to the biblical vocabulary of worship, underscoring the importance of instrumental music in praising God, reflecting the divine order and beauty in creation, and fostering joy in the presence of the Almighty.
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