מֵעָל

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Aramaic word mêʻâl, represented by H4606, means the going down or setting of the sun. It is a highly specific term, appearing only 1 time in the entire Bible. Its singular use marks a specific, final moment in time.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

In its sole biblical appearance, H4606 is used to establish a critical deadline in the narrative of Daniel. When King Darius realized he had been tricked into condemning Daniel, he "laboured till the going down of the sun to deliver him" Daniel 6:14. The term marks the point at which the king's window of opportunity to legally save Daniel would close, highlighting his desperation and the finality of the law he had enacted.

Related Words & Concepts

Several related Aramaic words provide context for this moment of crisis:

• H8122 shemesh (the sun): This is the specific object that is described as "going down," creating the literal image of sunset that H4606 defines Daniel 6:14.
• H5705 ʻad ({as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)}; [idiom] and, at, for, (hither-) to, on till, (un-) to, until, within): This word functions as a preposition that establishes the time limit for the king's efforts, leading directly into the phrase containing H4606 Daniel 6:14.
• H7804 shᵉzab (to leave, i.e. (causatively) free; deliver): This verb reveals the king's objective. His effort to deliver Daniel is framed by the unyielding deadline of the sun's "going down" Daniel 6:14.

Theological Significance

The significance of H4606 is found in its narrative function rather than broad theological use.

• A Point of No Return: The "going down" of the sun signifies the end of human effort. It marks the moment where the king's power is exhausted and he can no longer intervene Daniel 6:14.
• Heightening Tension: The use of this term emphasizes the urgency and futility of the king's struggle against his own decree, building suspense for the events to follow in the lions' den.
• Contrast of Power: The king's frantic labor is limited by the setting sun. This stands in contrast to the power of God, who is later shown to deliver Daniel from the lions, an act not bound by time or human limitations Daniel 6:27.

Summary

In summary, while mêʻâl H4606 is one of the rarest words in scripture, its single appearance is impactful. It serves as a powerful narrative device in the book of Daniel, signifying a moment of finality, emphasizing the limits of human authority, and setting the stage for a demonstration of divine deliverance that transcends any earthly deadline.