### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mishʼâlâh**, represented by `{{H4862}}`, is defined as a **request**, **desire**, or **petition**. It is derived from the root word שָׁאַל. This specific term is quite rare, appearing only **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, giving its occurrences particular weight.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The use of `{{H4862}}` in Scripture directly links human desire and requests to a relationship with God. In [[Psalms 37:4]], it is used to express the "desires of thine heart," which God gives to those who first **delight** `{{H6026}}` themselves in Him. In [[Psalms 20:5]], the word is translated as **petitions**, with the psalmist expressing confidence that the LORD will **fulfil** `{{H4390}}` them in the context of rejoicing in God's **salvation** `{{H3444}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context in which these petitions are made and answered:
* `{{H3820}}` **lêb** (the heart): This word points to the origin of our **desires**. A request is not merely a spoken word but something that comes from the center of a person's feelings and will [[Psalms 37:4]].
* `{{H6026}}` **ʻânag** (to be soft or pliable... have delight): This term establishes the condition for receiving one's desires. The promise is given to those who **delight** themselves in the LORD, indicating a heart that is yielded and finds its joy in Him [[Psalms 37:4]].
* `{{H4390}}` **mâlêʼ** (to fill... accomplish, fulfil): This word describes God's action in response to a **petition**. It shows that God is the one who brings a request to its complete fulfillment [[Psalms 20:5]].
* `{{H3444}}` **yᵉshûwʻâh** (deliverance, salvation, victory): The fulfillment of **petitions** is closely associated with God's acts of salvation. The community's joy in His victory precedes the confident declaration that He will answer their requests [[Psalms 20:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4862}}` is focused on the nature of answered prayer.
* **The Aligned Heart:** The promise attached to `{{H4862}}` is not a blank check. It is conditional upon delighting in the Lord, suggesting that when a person's **heart** `{{H3820}}` is aligned with God, their **desires** will naturally reflect His will [[Psalms 37:4]].
* **God as the Fulfiller:** The word underscores God's sovereignty and faithfulness. The confidence expressed in the psalms is that the LORD will **fulfil** `{{H4390}}` all **petitions**, positioning Him as the active and powerful source of answered prayer [[Psalms 20:5]].
* **Petition and Salvation:** The term is situated within the greater context of God's redemptive work. The request for fulfillment is voiced by those who **rejoice** `{{H7442}}` in His **salvation** `{{H3444}}`, connecting personal petitions to the community's celebration of God's deliverance.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4862}}` **mishʼâlâh** encapsulates a profound concept of prayer. Though used only twice, it illustrates that a valid **request** or **petition** is one that stems from a **heart** `{{H3820}}` that **delights** `{{H6026}}` in God. It is a term of confidence, expressing the belief that God not only hears but actively **fulfils** `{{H4390}}` the desires of those who trust in His ultimate **salvation** `{{H3444}}`.
TRV