(Aramaic) corresponding to בֵּן; a son, grandson, etc.; [idiom] old, son.
Transliteration:bar
Pronunciation:bar
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic lemma בַּר (`{{H1247}}`, transliterated as *bar*) primarily signifies "son" or "child." It functions as the direct Aramaic equivalent to the more common Hebrew term בֵּן (`{{H1121}}`). Its semantic range extends beyond immediate offspring to include grandsons or any male descendant, emphasizing lineage and generational connection. The base definition also notes an idiomatic usage, "old, son," which may imply a son of mature age or a figure of established standing, though its core meaning remains filial. This word is exclusively found in the Aramaic portions of the Old Testament, specifically in the books of Daniel and Ezra.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Occurrences of בַּר (`{{H1247}}`) are limited to the Aramaic sections of Scripture, predominantly in Daniel and Ezra.
* In **Daniel**, the term is used in a literal sense for "sons" of Belshazzar ([[Daniel 5:2]]) and to refer to Belshazzar himself as the "son" of Nebuchadnezzar ([[Daniel 5:22]]), though this may indicate a broader dynastic succession rather than direct paternity. Most significantly, בַּר appears in the pivotal phrase בַּר אֱנָשׁ (bar 'enash), "one like a son of man," in [[Daniel 7:13]]. Here, it describes a unique figure approaching the Ancient of Days, receiving everlasting dominion, glory, and a kingdom.
* In **Ezra**, בַּר is used to denote literal sons in genealogical contexts, such as Zechariah, "the son of Iddo" ([[Ezra 5:1]]), and in reference to the "sons of Israel" ([[Ezra 6:9]]).
Contextual analysis reveals that while the term generally denotes biological or lineal descent, its usage in [[Daniel 7:13]] transcends the ordinary, pointing to a figure of profound eschatological and messianic significance.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct linguistic relation to בַּר (`{{H1247}}`) is its Hebrew counterpart, בֵּן (`{{H1121}}`), which carries the identical primary meaning of "son" or "child." Both terms are foundational to understanding family structures, lineage, and covenant relationships in the biblical narrative. Other related concepts include:
* **Family and Genealogy:** Terms for father (`{{H1}}` 'ab), mother (`{{H517}}` 'em), daughter (`{{H1323}}` bat), and brother (`{{H251}}` 'ach) all contribute to the broader semantic field of kinship.
* **"Son of Man" (Aramaic: בַּר אֱנָשׁ):** This specific phrase in [[Daniel 7:13]] is crucial. It links בַּר (`{{H1247}}`) to the concept of humanity (אֱנָשׁ, 'enash, "man") and, more profoundly, to a unique, divinely appointed figure. This Aramaic phrase becomes the direct precursor to the New Testament Greek υἱὸς τοῦ ἀνθρώπου (`{{G5207}}` huios tou anthrōpou), extensively used by Jesus as a self-designation.
* **Messianic Titles:** The "Son of Man" title in Daniel positions בַּר (`{{H1247}}`) within the realm of messianic prophecy, signifying both the humanity and the divine authority of the coming deliverer.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of בַּר (`{{H1247}}`) is primarily concentrated in its use within the phrase "Son of Man" in [[Daniel 7:13]].
* **Messianic Revelation:** This passage presents a pivotal messianic prophecy, describing "one like a son of man" who is presented before the Ancient of Days and receives an everlasting dominion, glory, and a kingdom that shall not be destroyed. This figure embodies both human identification and divine authority, coming "with the clouds of heaven."
* **Incarnational Foreshadowing:** The title "Son of Man" in Daniel foreshadows the unique identity of the Messiah, who would be fully human yet possess divine attributes and authority. It hints at the mystery of the Incarnation, where God would become man.
* **Bridge to New Testament Christology:** The Aramaic בַּר אֱנָשׁ directly informs the New Testament's "Son of Man" title, which Jesus frequently uses to refer to Himself. By adopting this title, Jesus identifies Himself with the Danielic figure, emphasizing His true humanity, His suffering and redemptive mission, and His ultimate role as judge and King in His glorious return. It underscores His authority and His unique relationship with the Father.
* **Identity and Relationship:** Beyond the messianic, the general use of "son" reinforces the biblical emphasis on identity derived from lineage, the importance of family structures, and the covenantal relationship between God and His "sons" (Israel, and later, believers).
### Summary
The Aramaic word בַּר (`{{H1247}}`) fundamentally means "son" or "descendant," serving as the direct linguistic counterpart to the Hebrew בֵּן (`{{H1121}}`). While its general usage in the Aramaic portions of Daniel and Ezra refers to literal or dynastic offspring, its profound theological weight derives almost entirely from its appearance in the phrase בַּר אֱנָשׁ ("one like a son of man") in [[Daniel 7:13]]. This pivotal vision describes a figure of both human and divine essence, who receives eternal dominion and glory, establishing a foundational messianic prophecy. This Danielic "Son of Man" directly informs the New Testament's Christology, as Jesus frequently employs the title to identify Himself, thereby linking His true humanity, His suffering, and His ultimate divine authority to this Old Testament revelation. Thus, בַּר (`{{H1247}}`) serves as a crucial linguistic and theological bridge, connecting concepts of human lineage to the eschatological and divine-human identity of the Messiah.
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