מַאֲמַר (ma.a.mar)
ma.a.mar
command
H:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-M
Word Overview
The noun maamar denotes a spoken word or an official command, functioning as the Aramaic equivalent of the Hebrew meemar. It appears in only three verses, all within the Book of Esther, where it carries significant legal weight. Rather than referring to casual speech, the term signifies a decree issued with authority, often by a king or high official.
In its biblical context, maamar is closely tied to the permanence and binding nature of royal orders. The text uses it to describe edicts that cannot be revoked, highlighting the finality of such pronouncements. This usage underscores the power dynamics in Esther, where spoken commands become irreversible law, shaping the fate of entire communities.
The rarity of this word in Scripture makes its occurrences stand out. Its presence in Esther emphasizes the tension between human authority and divine providence, as characters navigate a world governed by strict decrees. Translators typically render it as "command" or "decree," capturing the formal and authoritative tone inherent in the term.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word maamar points to a spoken command that carries finality and weight. In the Book of Esther, it describes royal decrees that cannot be revoked, showing how human authority can shape history with irreversible force. This reminds us that words matter deeply; they are not just sounds but commitments that affect real lives.
Yet this word also highlights a contrast between fleeting human orders and enduring divine purposes. While kings issue commands that bind subjects, God’s providence works behind the scenes to protect His people. We can find comfort in knowing that no decree, however powerful, stands outside of God’s ultimate sovereignty. Our faith rests not in the stability of earthly laws but in the faithful character of our Creator.
When we face situations where authority seems absolute or unjust, this term invites us to trust in a higher justice. It encourages patience and wisdom, knowing that God sees what is hidden and acts according to His perfect will. We are called to live faithfully within our circumstances, trusting that God’s purposes prevail over every human plan.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- [the] command of2×
- and/ [the] command of1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- מַאֲמַר֙1×
- מַאֲמַ֤ר1×
- וּ/מַאֲמַ֣ר1×
Key Verses
-
Esther 1:15
“What shall we do to Queen Vashti according to law, because she has not done the bidding of the King Ahasuerus by the eunuchs?”
This verse uses the term to describe a royal decree regarding Queen Vashti, illustrating how the king's spoken command became binding law that could not be easily overturned.
-
Esther 2:20
Esther had not yet made known her relatives nor her people, as Mordecai had commanded her; for Esther obeyed Mordecai, like she did when she was brought up by him.
Here the word refers to Mordecai’s instruction to Esther, showing how personal commands carried authority and obedience within the royal court context.
-
Esther 9:32
The commandment of Esther confirmed these matters of Purim; and it was written in the book.
This occurrence links Esther’s command to the establishment of Purim, demonstrating how a formal decree could institutionalize memory and celebration for future generations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does maamar mean in the Bible?
Why is maamar significant in Esther?
How is maamar different from other words for command?
Every Occurrence (3 verses across 1 books)
Esther 3 verses
“What shall we do to Queen Vashti according to law, because she has not done the bidding of the King Ahasuerus by the…
Esther 2:20Esther had not yet made known her relatives nor her people, as Mordecai had commanded her; for Esther obeyed Mordecai,…
Esther 9:32The commandment of Esther confirmed these matters of Purim; and it was written in the book.