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.
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.
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.
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.
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