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)).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mên**, represented by `{{H4482}}`, is a term with a specific and musical application. It appears only **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from an unused root meaning to apportion, its definition points to a musical chord or **stringed instrument**, but it is also translated in one context as **whereby**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two uses of `{{H4482}}` showcase its distinct meanings. In Psalm 150, it is clearly identified as a tool for worship, where the psalmist calls to "praise him with **stringed instruments** and organs" [[Psalms 150:4]]. Here, it is part of a list of instruments used to praise God. In contrast, Psalm 45 uses the word abstractly. In a description of a king's splendid garments and palaces, the text says these are the things "out of the ivory palaces, **whereby** they have made thee glad" [[Psalms 45:8]], using `{{H4482}}` to connect the source of joy with the feeling itself.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which `{{H4482}}` is found:
* `{{H1984}}` **hâlal** (praise): This root word for praise is the command given when `{{H4482}}` is mentioned as a musical instrument. It means to celebrate or make a show, and is central to the call to worship in Psalm 150 [[Psalms 150:4]].
* `{{H8596}}` **tôph** (timbrel): Defined as a tambourine, this is another instrument of praise listed alongside **mên**. Its inclusion emphasizes the communal and rhythmic nature of the praise being described [[Psalms 150:4]].
* `{{H8055}}` **sâmach** (be glad): This word, meaning to be blithe or rejoice, is the direct result of the action described as "whereby" `{{H4482}}` in Psalm 45. It links the external splendor of the palaces to an internal state of gladness [[Psalms 45:8]].
* `{{H1964}}` **hêykâl** (palace, temple): This term for a large public building or temple serves as the source of the joy in Psalm 45. The "ivory palaces" are the places from which gladness is brought forth [[Psalms 45:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H4482}}` is tied to the themes of praise and joy.
* **Instruments of Praise:** In its role as "stringed instruments," `{{H4482}}` affirms the use of musical artistry in the act of worship. It is presented as a valid and commanded means of praising God, alongside other instruments and dance [[Psalms 150:4]].
* **Source of Gladness:** In its use as "whereby," the word highlights that joy and gladness have a source. In the context of the royal psalm, the magnificent and beautiful "ivory palaces" are the means by which the king is made glad, pointing to a connection between a divinely-appointed environment and the joy it inspires [[Psalms 45:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4482}}` is a rare but illustrative word. Though appearing only twice, its dual meaning captures both a tangible object for worship—a stringed instrument—and an abstract concept for how joy is produced. It contributes directly to the biblical themes of exuberant praise and royal gladness found within the Psalms.
TRV