### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **mᵉrad**, represented by `{{H4776}}`, is a term for **rebellion**. It is derived from a root corresponding to the Hebrew word for rebellion. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, where it is used to describe a history of political defiance against ruling powers.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical appearance of `{{H4776}}` is found in [[Ezra 4:19]]. In this verse, a report is delivered to a king after a search of historical records. The finding is that the city of Jerusalem "of old time hath made insurrection against kings, and that **rebellion** `{{H4776}}` and sedition have been made therein." The word is used here as a formal accusation, part of a legal and political effort to characterize the city as historically ungovernable.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words in the context of [[Ezra 4:19]] clarify the nature of this defiance:
* `{{H849}}` **ʼeshtaddûwr** (sedition): This word for rebellion appears alongside `{{H4776}}` in the same verse, intensifying the charge against Jerusalem. It is used to describe how the city's inhabitants have "moved **sedition**" [[Ezra 4:15]].
* `{{H5376}}` **nᵉsâʼ** (to lift; make insurrection): This verb describes the action of rising up against authority. The report against Jerusalem states that the city "hath made **insurrection**" against kings [[Ezra 4:19]], providing the active context for the state of rebellion.
* `{{H5648}}` **ʻăbad** (to do, make): This general verb for action is used to state that rebellion and sedition "have been **made**" in the city [[Ezra 4:19]]. This frames rebellion not as a passive state but as something actively carried out.
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H4776}}` is rooted in its specific political context rather than broad theological discourse.
* **Political Defiance:** The term is used to officially label Jerusalem's historical resistance to foreign kings. It is a charge of political insubordination found in official records [[Ezra 4:19]].
* **A Formal Accusation:** The word's use in [[Ezra 4:19]] is not a moral teaching on rebellion in general but a specific charge used to halt the rebuilding of the house of God.
* **Combined Force with Sedition:** The pairing of **rebellion** `{{H4776}}` with **sedition** `{{H849}}` creates a powerful legal accusation, suggesting a persistent and active pattern of opposition to established rule.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4776}}` is a precise Aramaic term for **rebellion**. Although it is used only once, its placement in [[Ezra 4:19]] gives it significant weight as a formal charge of political insurrection. Framed by associated words for rising up, sedition, and the act of "making" trouble, **mᵉrad** captures the essence of active and historical defiance against earthly authority.
TRV