### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Mereç**, represented by `{{H4825}}`, is a proper name of foreign derivation meaning **Meres**, a Persian. It is a highly specific term, appearing just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its sole function is to identify one of the high-ranking officials in the Persian court during the time of Esther.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical appearance of `{{H4825}}` is in the court of the Persian king. In [[Esther 1:14]], **Meres** is named as one of "the seven princes of Persia and Media, which saw the king's face, and which sat the first in the kingdom." This places him in the innermost circle of royal advisors, highlighting his significant political influence and status within one of the most powerful empires of the ancient world. His mention serves to establish the setting and the powerful figures involved in the events of the book of Esther.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from the context of [[Esther 1:14]] provide a framework for understanding the role of **Meres**:
* `{{H8269}}` **sar** (a head person... prince): This word directly describes the office held by Meres. He was not just a courtier but a **prince**, one of seven who held the highest rank and had direct access to the monarch.
* `{{H4428}}` **melek** (a king): The entire identity and power of Meres are defined by his relationship to the **king**. His position as a prince who "saw the king's face" signifies his proximity to the ultimate human authority in the Persian empire [[Esther 1:14]].
* `{{H4438}}` **malkûwth** (a rule; concretely, a dominion; empire, kingdom): This term defines the sphere of influence for both Meres and his king. He was a primary figure in the Persian **kingdom**, the vast realm in which the drama of Esther unfolds [[Esther 1:14]].
### Theological Significance
While **Meres** himself carries no direct theological weight, the concepts associated with his position are significant. The narrative uses terms of earthly power to draw a contrast with divine authority.
* **Earthly vs. Divine Kingdom:** The Persian **kingdom** `{{H4438}}` where Meres was a prince is a powerful earthly domain, but scripture consistently points to a greater reality, stating that the Lord's **kingdom** `{{H4438}}` rules over all [[Psalms 103:19]].
* **Human vs. Divine King:** Meres served an influential human **king** `{{H4428}}`, but the Bible declares that "the LORD shall be **king** over all the earth" [[Zechariah 14:9]], establishing God as the ultimate sovereign.
* **The True Prince:** The title of **prince** `{{H8269}}` applied to Meres is elevated in prophecy to describe the coming Messiah, the "**Prince** of Peace" [[Isaiah 9:6]], whose government and authority are eternal.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4825}}` **Mereç** is the proper name of a specific historical figure: a Persian **prince** mentioned once in scripture. His significance lies not in his own actions but in his position within the Persian court. His brief appearance helps establish the political landscape of the book of Esther, and the titles associated with his rank—**prince** `{{H8269}}`, **king** `{{H4428}}`, and **kingdom** `{{H4438}}`—serve as biblical touchpoints that ultimately contrast the temporary power of human empires with the eternal sovereignty of God.
TRV