מָרֵא (ma.re)
ma.re
lord
A:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- A:N-M
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun mārēʾ simply means "lord" or "master." In the Bible, it is used to address someone with authority, specifically kings and God. This word appears only twice in Scripture, both in the book of Daniel, reflecting its use in a foreign context where Aramaic was common.
In Daniel 4:19 and 5:11, the term is part of the phrase "lord of the kings," showing respect for earthly rulers. It highlights the dignity and power held by those in charge. The word does not carry deep theological nuance but serves as a straightforward title of honor.
Its rarity makes each occurrence stand out. By using mārēʾ, the biblical writers acknowledge human authority while maintaining that ultimate sovereignty belongs to God alone. This balance between respecting earthly power and affirming divine rule is central to the message in Daniel.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word mārēʾ appears only twice in Scripture, both within the book of Daniel. It serves as a direct address to earthly rulers, acknowledging their position while placing them under a higher authority. In these rare instances, the term highlights the dignity of human office without equating it with divine sovereignty.
For your daily life, this reminds us that respect for leaders is part of our faith, yet our ultimate loyalty belongs elsewhere. When we encounter those in power, we can honor their role while remembering that true wisdom and judgment come from God alone. This balance helps us navigate complex relationships with grace and clarity.
Even in a foreign land, Daniel maintained this perspective. He recognized the king’s authority but never compromised his devotion to the Lord. We too can find peace in knowing that no human title overrides the Creator’s plan. May you approach every interaction with humility and trust in God’s ultimate rule.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ [the] lord of1×
- [the] lord of1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- מָרֵֽא\־1×
- וּ/מָרֵ֥א1×
Key Verses
-
Daniel 2:47
The king answered to Daniel, and said, “Of a truth your God is the God of gods, and the Lord of kings, and a revealer of secrets, since you have been able to reveal this secret.”
This verse uses the phrase 'Lord of kings' to acknowledge God's supreme authority over all earthly rulers, setting the context for how human leaders are viewed.
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Daniel 5:23
but have lifted up yourself against the Lord of heaven; and they have brought the vessels of his house before you, and you and your lords, your wives, and your concubines, have drunk wine from them. You have praised the gods of silver and gold, of bronze, iron, wood, and stone, which don’t see, or hear, or know; and you have not glorified the God in whose hand your breath is, and whose are all your ways.
Here the text contrasts the king’s rebellion against the Lord of heaven with his reliance on idols, highlighting the danger of elevating human power above divine will.