### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **minnᵉzâr**, represented by `{{H4502}}`, refers to the **crowned** or a prince. It is a rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its singular use provides a specific, vivid image within a prophetic context, referring to a type of leader or official.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole appearance, `{{H4502}}` is used in a prophecy to describe the leaders of a city under judgment. The verse states, "Thy **crowned** are as the locusts, and thy captains as the great grasshoppers" [[Nahum 3:17]]. This imagery powerfully conveys their vulnerability and temporary nature. Like insects that take shelter in hedges on a cold day, these leaders will **flee away** when the sun arises, and their place will not be known, highlighting their ultimate powerlessness.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the passage build upon this image of transient and weak leadership:
* `{{H2951}}` **ṭiphçar** (captain): Defined as a military governor, this word appears in parallel with **crowned** in [[Nahum 3:17]], linking the term to the city's military and administrative leadership.
* `{{H2583}}` **chânâh** (to encamp): This word describes the action of the leaders, who "camp" in hedges. It suggests a temporary, non-permanent settlement, reinforcing their lack of stability [[Nahum 3:17]].
* `{{H5074}}` **nâdad** (flee away): This term describes the final action of the crowned leaders, who "flee away" when the sun rises. It underscores their cowardice and the complete collapse of their power when faced with a greater force [[Nahum 3:17]].
* `{{H8121}}` **shemesh** (sun): The rising of the **sun** is the event that causes the leaders to scatter. In scripture, the LORD God is described as a **sun** [[Psalms 84:11]], suggesting the appearance of a divine, overwhelming power.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4502}}` is conveyed entirely through its striking metaphorical context.
* **Transient Authority:** The primary point demonstrated by `{{H4502}}` is the fleeting nature of human power. By comparing the **crowned** to locusts, the passage shows that even the highest-ranking officials are not permanent fixtures but can vanish without a trace [[Nahum 3:17]].
* **Vulnerability in Crisis:** The imagery of the **crowned** camping in hedges only during a "cold day" suggests their apparent strength exists only under specific conditions. When faced with the rising sun—a metaphor for judgment—their defenses crumble and they flee [[Nahum 3:17]].
* **Anonymity in Defeat:** The prophecy concludes that the place of these leaders "is not known where they are" [[Nahum 3:17]]. This emphasizes the totality of their defeat, erasing not just their power but their very memory and position.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4502}}` **minnᵉzâr** is a specific and impactful term, used only once to define the **crowned** leaders of a city. Its context within the prophecy of [[Nahum 3:17]] serves as a powerful illustration of the frailty of human authority. By likening these princes to insects that scatter at sunrise, the scripture underscores that earthly power is temporary and will ultimately vanish when confronted by a superior force.
TRV