The Aramaic word bᵉshar, represented by H1321, means flesh. It is a specific term appearing only 3 times in 3 unique verses in the book of Daniel. Its base definition refers to flesh, and by extension, the body or a person.
In its biblical appearances, H1321 is used to describe the physical nature of beings. It draws a clear line between the divine and the mortal, stating that the gods' dwelling is not with flesh Daniel 2:11. The term is also used in a literal sense, as when a beast resembling a bear is commanded to "devour much flesh" Daniel 7:5. Furthermore, it can encompass all living creatures, as seen in the vision of a great tree that provided food for "all flesh" Daniel 4:12.
Several related Aramaic words provide context for the concept of physical life and sustenance:
- H2423 chêyvâʼ (beast): This word, defined as an animal, is directly associated with bᵉshar. In Daniel's visions, beasts are the entities that interact with flesh, such as the bear commanded to devour it Daniel 7:5 and the beasts of the field that are fed alongside "all flesh" Daniel 4:12.
- H4203 mâzôwn (meat): This term for food appears in the same context as bᵉshar, describing the provision from the great tree in the vision, where "in it was meat for all" Daniel 4:12.
- H4 ʼêb (fruit): Also found in the vision of the great tree, this word describes the fruit that serves as the source of nourishment for all flesh Daniel 4:12.
The use of H1321 carries specific thematic weight within the book of Daniel:
- Mortal vs. Divine: The word establishes a fundamental distinction between the physical, earthly realm of flesh and the non-physical realm of the divine. The gods are defined by their dwelling not being with flesh Daniel 2:11.
- Universal Sustenance: bᵉshar is used to represent the entirety of living, breathing creatures that depend on creation for food. The vision of the great tree providing for "all flesh" illustrates a theme of universal provision Daniel 4:12.
- Object of Consumption: In the context of prophetic visions, flesh can represent that which is conquered or consumed by worldly powers, symbolized by the command for the beast to "devour much flesh" Daniel 7:5.
In summary, H1321 bᵉshar is a concise but significant Aramaic term for flesh. Though appearing only three times, it effectively delineates the mortal world from the divine, represents the collective body of living creatures in need of sustenance, and serves as a symbol of consumption within the prophetic imagery of Daniel. Its meaning is tied directly to the physical, tangible nature of life on earth.
TRV