14: Kingdom — Malkuth (OT), Basileia (NT), and Intertestamental Usage

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1. Hebrew Term: Malkuth (Malchut) — מַלְכוּת

Pronunciation: mal-KOOT
Meaning: Kingdom, reign, sovereignty; refers to God’s rule and the dominion of kings.

Old Testament Usage:

  • Describes God’s sovereign rule over Israel and the nations.
  • Also used for earthly kingdoms and monarchies.
    Example Verses:
  • Psalm 103:19 — “The LORD has established his throne in the heavens, and his kingdom (malkuth) rules over all.”
  • Daniel 2:44 — “…the kingdom (malkuth) shall never be destroyed.”

Intertestamental Usage:

  • The concept of God’s kingdom is expanded in apocalyptic literature emphasizing future divine rule.
  • Basileia is frequently used in Greek texts as the translation of malkuth.

New Testament Usage:

  • Basileia refers to the Kingdom of God or Heaven as the reign of God inaugurated by Jesus.
  • Emphasizes both present spiritual reality and future consummation.
    Example Verses:
  • Matthew 6:33 — “Seek first the kingdom (basileia) of God and his righteousness.”
  • Luke 17:20-21 — “The kingdom (basileia) of God is in the midst of you.”

Comparative Summary:

  • Malkuth in the OT grounds the concept of God’s sovereign rule.
  • Intertestamental writings interpret kingdom themes with eschatological expectations.
  • Basileia in the NT highlights the inaugurated and coming reign of God through Christ.
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