### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **môshel**, represented by `{{H4915}}`, carries a dual meaning of **dominion** or **empire** and **like**, or a parallel. Though it appears only **3 times** across **3 unique verses**, its usage highlights concepts of sovereign rule and unique incomparability. The word is derived from the root `{{H4910}}` mâshal, which means "to rule."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4915}}` is used to illustrate different aspects of power and comparison. In Zechariah, it describes the vast, peaceful reign of a future king, whose **dominion** will stretch "from sea even to sea" [[Zechariah 9:10]]. Conversely, Daniel uses the word to describe the fragility of human authority, where a powerful king's **dominion** is broken and "plucked up," not even passed to his posterity [[Daniel 11:4]]. A third, distinct usage appears in Job, where it signifies "like," stating that upon the earth there is not his **like**, describing a creature "made without fear" [[Job 41:33]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the concepts of rule and authority associated with `{{H4915}}`:
* `{{H4910}}` **mâshal** (to rule): As the primitive root of `{{H4915}}`, this word signifies having power or dominion. It is used to describe the authority a husband shall have over his wife [[Genesis 3:16]] and God's power as he **rulest** the raging of the sea [[Psalms 89:9]].
* `{{H4438}}` **malkûwth** (kingdom): This term for a dominion or empire appears alongside `{{H4915}}` in Daniel, where a ruler's **kingdom** is broken apart, not according to his previous dominion [[Daniel 11:4]]. It also describes God's eternal **kingdom** that rules over all [[Psalms 103:19]].
* `{{H5428}}` **nâthash** (to tear away): This word describes the action of being plucked up by the roots. It is used in [[Daniel 11:4]] to state that the ruler's kingdom "shall be **plucked up**," vividly illustrating the destruction of the dominion described by `{{H4915}}`.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4915}}` is found in its contrasting applications.
* **Prophetic vs. Earthly Dominion:** The word is used to contrast the enduring, expansive **dominion** of a prophesied peacemaking king [[Zechariah 9:10]] with the temporary, shattered **dominion** of a worldly king whose power is broken [[Daniel 11:4]].
* **Absolute Uniqueness:** Its use as "like" in [[Job 41:33]] underscores a theme of incomparability. By stating there is nothing on earth with his **like**, it points to a level of might and fearlessness that is singular and without parallel.
* **The Fate of Power:** The context in [[Daniel 11:4]], where a **dominion** is "plucked up," reinforces the biblical theme that earthly power and kingdoms are ultimately transient and subject to being torn away.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4915}}` is a specific and impactful term. While its appearances are few, it effectively conveys concepts of both sovereign rule and absolute comparison. It is used to define the boundaries of power, from the messianic ideal of a worldwide **dominion** to the stark reality of a broken human empire. Furthermore, its use as "like" serves to establish a category of unparalleled existence, making `{{H4915}}` a word that speaks to both the nature of authority and the quality of uniqueness.
TRV