### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **bᵉram**, represented by `{{H1297}}`, is an adversative particle used to mean **but, nevertheless, yet**. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. Its function is to introduce a contrasting or pivotal statement that alters the direction of the narrative or argument.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H1297}}` consistently marks a significant turn. In Daniel, it is used to contrast human inability with divine power, such as when Daniel states that while earthly magicians have failed, "**But** there is a God in heaven that revealeth secrets" [[Daniel 2:28]]. It is also used to express a condition within a decree, as in the judgment on Nebuchadnezzar, where the tree is to be cut down, "**yet** leave the stump of his roots" [[Daniel 4:23]]. In Ezra, it highlights the specific, superseding decree of King Cyrus to rebuild God's house [[Ezra 5:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words appear in clauses immediately following `{{H1297}}`, clarifying the nature of the introduced contrast:
* `{{H1541}}` **gᵉlâh** (reveal): This Aramaic word, corresponding to the Hebrew for revealing or carrying away, describes the divine action that `{{H1297}}` introduces. For example, "**But** there is a God in heaven that **revealeth** secrets" [[Daniel 2:28]].
* `{{H3046}}` **yᵉdaʻ** (to know; make known): This word often specifies the result of the pivot created by `{{H1297}}`. After refusing the king's gifts, Daniel says, "**yet** I will read the writing unto the king, and **make known** to him the interpretation" [[Daniel 5:17]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative function of `{{H1297}}` is crucial for understanding divine action and sovereignty.
* **Pivoting to Divine Action:** The word serves as a hinge, shifting the focus from a human problem to a divine solution. It marks the moment where God's power to reveal or act is asserted against a backdrop of human limitation [[Daniel 2:28]].
* **Introducing a Sovereign Exception:** In passages of judgment, `{{H1297}}` introduces a critical condition that demonstrates God's nuanced plan. The felling of Nebuchadnezzar's symbolic tree is not total; "**nevertheless** leave the stump" points to a future restoration [[Daniel 4:15]].
* **Highlighting Authoritative Decree:** The word can single out a specific decree as definitive. It is used in Ezra to emphasize that, regardless of other circumstances, the decree by Cyrus to rebuild the temple was a decisive event [[Ezra 5:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1297}}` is a concise yet powerful Aramaic particle. As an adversative term like "but" or "yet," its primary role is to create a turning point. It is used specifically to contrast the human realm with the divine, introduce a critical exception in a judgment, or emphasize the authority of a particular decree.
TRV