### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **mᵉnêʼ**, represented by `{{H4484}}`, is defined as **numbered**. It appears **3 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. The term is a passive participle of the Aramaic verb to count, signifying that something has been counted or audited, and it is famously known as the first word in the writing on the wall.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4484}}` appears exclusively in the book of Daniel. It is the first word of the cryptic message that was written on a wall during Belshazzar's feast: "MENE, MENE, TEKEL, UPHARSIN" [[Daniel 5:25]]. Daniel provides the interpretation of this divine writing, explaining that **MENE** signifies that God has **numbered** the days of the king's kingdom and brought it to an end [[Daniel 5:26]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words provide context for this divine message:
* `{{H4483}}` **mᵉnâʼ** (to count, appoint): This is the active verb from which `{{H4484}}` is derived. It is used in the interpretation of the message: "God hath **numbered** thy kingdom" [[Daniel 5:26]].
* `{{H3792}}` **kᵉthâb** (something written, i.e. a writing, record or book): This word describes the form of the divine message itself, referred to as "the **writing** that was written" [[Daniel 5:25]].
* `{{H6591}}` **pᵉshar** (an interpretation): The inability of the king's wise men to provide the **interpretation** of the writing, and Daniel's ability to do so, is central to the narrative [[Daniel 5:26]].
* `{{H4437}}` **malkûw** (dominion (abstractly or concretely); kingdom, kingly, realm, reign): This is the subject of the divine count, as God has numbered the king's **kingdom** [[Daniel 5:26]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4484}}` is significant, highlighting key principles of divine authority:
* **Divine Judgment:** The word is a declaration of a verdict. Its interpretation, "God hath numbered thy kingdom, and finished it," is a direct pronouncement of judgment from God `{{H426}}` against a king and his realm [[Daniel 5:26]].
* **God's Sovereignty over Kingdoms:** The message explicitly states that God is the one who has numbered the kingdom. This establishes God's ultimate authority to determine the lifespan and end of human rule.
* **Finality of God's Decree:** The interpretation connects the act of numbering with finishing, using the word **finished** `{{H8000}}` immediately after [[Daniel 5:26]]. This shows that once God's count is complete, the outcome is final and irreversible.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4484}}` is much more than a term for counting. It is a powerful symbol of divine reckoning within the biblical narrative. As part of a supernatural writing `{{H3792}}`, it serves as a stark reminder of God's sovereignty, where the days of earthly kingdoms are numbered and ultimately subject to His final judgment. The word encapsulates the moment a divine audit concludes and a verdict is delivered.
TRV