מִשְׁאָלָה

a request

Definition

מִשְׁאָלָה (mishʼâlâh) is a Hebrew noun meaning a request, petition, or desire. It specifically denotes something asked for or sought from another, often carrying the sense of a formal or heartfelt petition. In its two biblical occurrences, it refers to petitions made to God: in Psalm 20:5, it is the collective 'requests' of the people for their king's success, and in Psalm 37:4, it is the singular 'desires' of the heart that God grants to the righteous. The word implies a dependency on the one being petitioned to fulfill the need or wish.

Biblical Usage

This word is used exclusively in the Psalms, appearing only twice in the Old Testament. In both instances, it describes petitions directed toward God. Psalm 20:5 uses it in a communal, liturgical context ('May we shout for joy over your salvation... May the LORD fulfill all your petitions!'), linking national joy with the king's granted requests. Psalm 37:4 uses it in a wisdom context, promising the righteous individual that if they 'Delight yourself in the LORD... he will give you the desires of your heart.' The usage pattern shows it applies to both corporate intercession and personal, godly aspiration.

Etymology

מִשְׁאָלָה is a feminine noun derived from the root שָׁאַל (sha'al, H7592), which means 'to ask, inquire, request, or borrow.' It is formed using the מִ- (mi-) prefix, common for creating nouns of place, instrument, or abstraction—here indicating 'the thing asked for.' Cognates exist in other Semitic languages like Aramaic and Ugaritic with similar meanings. The development is straightforward from the verbal action of asking to the noun for the content of the request.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it frames the nature of prayer and desire in relationship with God. It moves prayer beyond mere asking to the alignment of human desires with divine will. Psalm 37:4, in particular, connects 'delighting in the LORD' with the granting of מִשְׁאָלָה, suggesting that for the righteous, their deepest petitions become shaped by their communion with God. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches reading by highlighting that biblical 'desires' are often presented as legitimate requests made in a context of trust and worship, not selfish whims.

In ancient Israelite culture, presenting a petition (מִשְׁאָלָה) to a superior—whether a king or God—was a formal act of submission and hope. The use in Psalm 20 reflects the cultural practice of seeking divine favor for the king in battle, which was tied to the nation's well-being. The concept differs slightly from a modern, individualistic view of 'desire'; it is more a request made within a covenant relationship, where the petitioner's status and the recipient's character directly influence the outcome.

תְּחִנָּה (techinnah, H8467) — a plea or supplication, often emphasizing earnestness and mercy. תְּפִלָּה (tefillah, H8605) — the general word for prayer, communication with God. בַּקָּשָׁה (baqqashah, H1246) — a seeking or request, sometimes with a sense of requirement.

Word Details

Scripture References