### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **minchâh**, represented by `{{H4504}}`, corresponds to a sacrificial offering, **oblation**, or **meat offering**. It is a rare term, appearing only **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word's usage appears in two distinct contexts. In the book of Ezra, it is listed as one of the required sacrifices to be purchased and presented to God. These **meat offerings** were to be bought with money, alongside bullocks, rams, and lambs, and offered upon the **altar** `{{H4056}}` at the house of God in Jerusalem [[Ezra 7:17]]. In contrast, in the book of Daniel, King Nebuchadnezzar commands that an **oblation** `{{H4504}}` and sweet odours be offered to the prophet Daniel himself, following the king's act of worship toward him [[Daniel 2:46]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words clarify the context of a **minchâh**:
* `{{H5261}}` **nᵉçak** (drink offering): Defined as a libation, this term appears alongside **meat offerings** `{{H4504}}` as part of a complete sacrificial act [[Ezra 7:17]].
* `{{H4056}}` **madbach** (altar): This is the designated place for a sacrificial offering, where the **meat offerings** `{{H4504}}` were to be brought before God [[Ezra 7:17]].
* `{{H5208}}` **nîychôwach** (sweet odour (savour)): This term for pleasure or a sweet savour is paired with the **oblation** `{{H4504}}` commanded by Nebuchadnezzar for Daniel, indicating an offering of reverence [[Daniel 2:46]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H4504}}` is demonstrated by its two specific applications:
* **Prescribed Temple Sacrifice:** The term is used to describe a "meat offering" as a formal component of worship. It is part of a list of sacrifices to be funded and offered on the **altar** `{{H4056}}` of God's house in Jerusalem, highlighting its role in the established religious system [[Ezra 7:17]].
* **Extraordinary Human Veneration:** In a starkly different setting, the word is used for an "oblation" that a pagan king commands to be offered to a man. This act by Nebuchadnezzar shows the immense respect and worship he felt for Daniel [[Daniel 2:46]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4504}}` is a specific term for a sacrificial gift. While its appearances are few, they capture the word's use in two powerful settings: one as a "meat offering" within the formal worship of God, and the other as an "oblation" in an unparalleled act of reverence directed at a human prophet.
TRV