(Aramaic) from a root corresponding to מָרָא in the sense of domineering; a master; lord, Lord.
Transliteration:mârêʼ
Pronunciation:maw-ray'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic term `{{H4756}}` (מָרֵא, *mârêʼ*) denotes the concept of "master" or "lord." Derived from an Aramaic root signifying "to be lord" or "to dominate," its core meaning encapsulates authority, ownership, and sovereignty. It describes one who holds power and exercises control over others or over possessions. The semantic range extends from human masters and rulers to the ultimate divine Lord. The capitalization of "Lord" in its base definition indicates its significant application to God within biblical texts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
As an Aramaic word, `{{H4756}}` appears exclusively in the Aramaic portions of the Old Testament, primarily in the book of Daniel and once in Ezra. Its usage reveals a clear distinction between human and divine lordship:
* **Human Authority:** In Daniel, the term is frequently used to address earthly kings and rulers, acknowledging their temporal authority. Daniel addresses King Nebuchadnezzar as "my lord" (*mârî*) in [[Daniel 4:19]] and [[Daniel 4:24]], and King Belshazzar as "my lord" in [[Daniel 5:23]]. Similarly, Belshazzar is described as the "lord" (*mârêʼ*) of the holy vessels from the Jerusalem temple in [[Daniel 5:3]], highlighting his illicit claim of ownership and power over sacred objects. In [[Ezra 7:24]], the king's authority to grant exemptions to temple workers implicitly casts him as their lord. In these contexts, `{{H4756}}` underscores the hierarchical structure of ancient Near Eastern society and the recognized power of monarchs.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** Most profoundly, `{{H4756}}` is applied to God. In [[Daniel 2:47]], King Nebuchadnezzar, humbled by Daniel's interpretation of his dream, proclaims, "Truly your God is the God of gods and the Lord of kings" (*mârêʼ malḵîn*). Here, `{{H4756}}` is used in the superlative sense, declaring Yahweh as the supreme "Lord of kings," transcending all earthly dominion. This usage elevates God's authority above all human rulers, emphasizing His ultimate, unchallenged sovereignty over all kingdoms and historical events.
### Related Words & Concepts
While the Strong's definition notes a correspondence to the Hebrew `{{H4755}}` (מָרָא, *mârâʼ*), which primarily means "to be rebellious" or "disobedient," it is crucial to recognize that the Aramaic `{{H4756}}` semantically develops in a distinct direction, focusing on "domineering" in the sense of exercising rightful or claimed authority as a master or lord. The Aramaic root signifies a position of power and control, antithetical to rebellion.
More direct semantic parallels for `{{H4756}}` include:
* **Hebrew `{{H113}}` ('ādôn):** This is the most common Hebrew word for "lord," "master," or "owner," used for human superiors and frequently for God (Adonai). Both `{{H113}}` and `{{H4756}}` convey similar concepts of authority and dominion.
* **Hebrew `{{H136}}` ('ădônāy):** A specific vocalization of `{{H113}}` used exclusively for God, emphasizing His absolute sovereignty.
* **Greek `{{G2962}}` (kyrios):** The primary Greek term for "lord" in the Septuagint and New Testament, often translating `{{H113}}` and carrying the same dual application to human and divine authority, especially prominent in referring to Jesus Christ as Lord.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H4756}}` is profound, particularly in the book of Daniel. It serves as a linguistic vehicle to articulate God's absolute sovereignty over human history and earthly kingdoms. In a book deeply concerned with the rise and fall of empires, the declaration of God as the "Lord of kings" in [[Daniel 2:47]] is a pivotal theological statement. It asserts that even the most powerful human rulers, who claim divine status or absolute control, are ultimately subordinate to the one true God.
This concept challenges the pagan worldview prevalent in Babylon, where kings were often seen as divine or divinely appointed with unquestionable authority. By applying `{{H4756}}` to both human monarchs and to God, the text subtly yet powerfully contrasts the limited, transient nature of human lordship with the eternal, supreme dominion of Yahweh. The narrative of Daniel consistently demonstrates that God is the ultimate `{{H4756}}`, who "removes kings and sets up kings" [[Daniel 2:21]], thereby affirming divine providence and control over all earthly affairs.
### Summary
`{{H4756}}` (מָרֵא, *mârêʼ*) is an Aramaic term signifying "master" or "lord," rooted in the concept of domination and authority. Found in the Aramaic portions of Daniel and Ezra, it is applied to both human rulers, acknowledging their earthly power, and, most significantly, to God. Its use in passages like [[Daniel 2:47]], where God is declared the "Lord of kings," underscores a profound theological truth: Yahweh's ultimate, unchallenged sovereignty over all earthly kingdoms and historical processes. This word thus serves as a powerful reminder of God's supreme authority, transcending and governing all human dominion.
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