### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **gab**, represented by `{{H1355}}`, refers to the **back**. It is a very rare term, appearing only **1 time** in a single verse in the entire Bible. Its sole use occurs within the specific context of a prophetic vision described in the book of Daniel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{H1355}}` is in [[Daniel 7:6]], as part of a vision of four great beasts. Daniel describes the third beast as being "like a leopard{H5245}, which had upon{H5922} the **back**{H1355} of it four{H703} wings{H1611} of a fowl{H5776}". This beast also possessed four heads, and it was given dominion. The word **back** serves as a simple anatomical descriptor for the location of the beast's wings.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{H1355}}` connects it to several other Aramaic terms used in Daniel's vision:
* `{{H5245}}` **nᵉmar** (leopard): This is the animal that the third beast is compared to. The **back** described belongs to this **leopard**-like creature [[Daniel 7:6]].
* `{{H1611}}` **gaph** (wing): These wings are located "upon the **back**" of the beast. The presence of **wings** on the beast is a key part of its symbolic appearance [[Daniel 7:6]].
* `{{H2423}}` **chêyvâʼ** (beast): This word, meaning an animal, provides the general category for the creature being described. The term `{{H1355}}` is used to detail a specific feature of this prophetic **beast** [[Daniel 7:6]].
### Theological Significance
While a simple word, the theological significance of `{{H1355}}` comes from its unique context within prophetic symbolism.
* **Prophetic Anatomy:** The word **back** is used to anchor a key symbolic feature—the four wings—to the body of the third beast. This vision concerns the rise and fall of kingdoms, as these great beasts are identified as four kings [[Daniel 7:17]].
* **Symbolic Description:** Its use contributes to the surreal and memorable imagery of the leopard-like beast. The description of wings on the **back** helps to characterize this specific power, which was given "dominion" `{{H7985}}` in the vision [[Daniel 7:6]].
* **Part of a Divine Vision:** The word appears as a detail in what Daniel "beheld" `{{H2370}}` in a vision [[Daniel 7:6]]. This places the term not in a literal zoological context, but within a divine revelation about successive worldly powers.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1355}}` **gab** is a highly specific Aramaic term for **back**, used only once in scripture. Its significance is tied entirely to its role in Daniel's vision of the four beasts. It functions as a simple anatomical anchor point for the symbolic wings on the leopard-like beast, contributing a crucial detail to the prophetic imagery of a kingdom that would be given dominion. The word's single use highlights how even minor details are recorded in the fabric of biblical prophecy.
TRV