(Aramaic) corresponding to מַעְבָּד; an act; work.
Transliteration:maʻbâd
Pronunciation:mah-bawd'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic term מַעְבָד (maʻbâd), Strong's number `{{H4567}}`, denotes "an act" or "work." As an Aramaic word, its usage is confined to the Aramaic portions of the Old Testament. Its base definition indicates a direct correspondence to a related Hebrew concept, specifically the idea of something performed or accomplished. It refers to a concrete deed or an executed task, emphasizing the active manifestation of power or will. The semantic range is relatively narrow, focusing on the observable output of an agent.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word מַעְבָד (maʻbâd) appears exclusively in the book of Daniel, specifically in the Aramaic sections, and in both instances, it refers to the works of God.
* In [[Daniel 4:3]], King Nebuchadnezzar, in his initial testimony following his dream and its interpretation, exclaims, "How great are His signs, and how mighty are His wonders! His kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and His dominion is from generation to generation." While the English translation often uses "signs" and "wonders," the underlying Aramaic for "wonders" can be connected to maʻbâd in other contexts, or the broader sense of God's active deeds. More directly, in [[Daniel 4:37]], Nebuchadnezzar, after his restoration to sanity and throne, declares, "Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and extol and honor the King of heaven, for all His works (מַעְבָד) are truth, and His ways justice; and those who walk in pride He is able to humble." Here, maʻbâd explicitly refers to God's actions and interventions in human affairs. The context is one of profound theological recognition by a pagan king, acknowledging God's active sovereignty and righteous administration of the world. These "works" are not merely acts of power but are characterized by truth and justice, serving as a testament to God's moral character.
### Related Words & Concepts
The definition of מַעְבָד (maʻbâd) indicates its correspondence to a Hebrew concept, implicitly pointing to the root עָבַד (abad), which means "to work," "to serve," or "to labor" (`{{H5647}}`). The most closely related Hebrew noun expressing "work" or "deed" is מַעֲשֶׂה (maʻaseh), Strong's number `{{H4639}}`. Both terms convey the idea of an accomplished act or a product of labor. While maʻbâd is specifically Aramaic, it shares the theological burden of conveying divine action, similar to how maʻaseh is used in Hebrew to describe the works of creation, redemption, and judgment. Other related concepts include divine providence, sovereignty, and the manifestation of God's attributes through His dealings with humanity.
### Theological Significance
The limited but highly significant occurrences of מַעְבָד (maʻbâd) in Daniel contribute profoundly to the biblical understanding of God's nature. When Nebuchadnezzar praises God for His "works" ([[Daniel 4:37]]), he is acknowledging God's active involvement in the world and His sovereign control over human kingdoms and destinies. The characterization of these "works" as "truth" and God's "ways" as "justice" underscores the moral integrity of divine action. God's deeds are not arbitrary displays of power but are rooted in His righteous character. This term highlights the biblical theme of God as an active, intervening deity who executes His will in history, humbling the proud and exalting the humble according to His just decrees. The very existence and restoration of Nebuchadnezzar serve as a powerful testament to these divine works, compelling even a pagan monarch to acknowledge the supreme authority and righteousness of the God of Israel. Thus, maʻbâd emphasizes the tangible and observable manifestations of God's omnipotence and moral perfection.
### Summary
מַעְבָד (maʻbâd), Strong's number `{{H4567}}`, is an Aramaic term meaning "an act" or "work." Its sole appearances in the biblical text are within the book of Daniel, where it refers exclusively to the "works" of God. In passages such as [[Daniel 4:37]], King Nebuchadnezzar utilizes this term to praise and acknowledge the mighty and just deeds of the Most High God, recognizing that all of God's "works are truth, and His ways justice." Conceptually, it aligns with Hebrew terms like מַעֲשֶׂה (maʻaseh, `{{H4639}}`), emphasizing the tangible and effective actions of God. Theologically, maʻbâd underscores God's active sovereignty, His righteous character, and His direct intervention in human history, demonstrating His power to humble the proud and uphold justice. The term thus serves as a powerful witness to a God who is not merely transcendent but intimately involved in the affairs of His creation through His perfect and truthful deeds.
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