(Aramaic) corresponding to גָּדַד; to cut down; hew down.
Transliteration:gᵉdad
Pronunciation:ghed-ad'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic verb gᵉdad (`{{H1414}}`) carries the core meaning of "to cut down" or "to hew down." Its definition explicitly links it to the Hebrew gadad (`{{H1413}}`), suggesting a shared etymological root. However, the specific application of gᵉdad in the biblical text points to a forceful act of severing or felling, particularly in the context of large objects like trees. Unlike some uses of its Hebrew counterpart which can denote gashing or self-mutilation, the Aramaic gᵉdad emphasizes the complete reduction or removal of something substantial, often implying a decisive and destructive action.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb gᵉdad (`{{H1414}}`) appears only once in the biblical corpus, found in the Aramaic portion of the book of Daniel:
* [[Daniel 4:14]]: "Hew down the tree, and cut off its branches, strip off its leaves, and scatter its fruit. Let the beasts flee from under it, and the birds from its branches."
* **Context:** This verse is part of King Nebuchadnezzar's dream, which Daniel interprets. The "tree" in the dream symbolizes Nebuchadnezzar himself and his vast kingdom. The command to "hew down" the tree is given by a "holy watcher" (an angelic messenger), signifying a divine decree.
* **Analysis:** The act of "hewing down" (גְּדַדוּ, gᵉdadu) is a powerful metaphor for the impending judgment and temporary abasement of Nebuchadnezzar. It signifies the sudden and complete removal of his power, glory, and sanity. The divine command underscores God's absolute sovereignty over earthly rulers and nations, demonstrating that even the most powerful king is subject to the will of the Most High. The imagery of felling a mighty tree vividly portrays the downfall of a great empire and its ruler.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **`{{H1413}}` גָּדַד (gadad):** The Hebrew cognate, often translated as "to cut," "to incise," or "to gather." While it shares a root with gᵉdad (`{{H1414}}`), the Hebrew gadad frequently appears in contexts of self-mutilation (e.g., [[1 Kings 18:28]] where Baal worshippers "cut themselves") or gashing. The Aramaic gᵉdad, however, is singularly focused on the felling of a tree, suggesting a distinct semantic specialization in its Aramaic usage that emphasizes reduction or destruction rather than self-inflicted wounds.
* **Trees as Metaphors:** Throughout Scripture, trees often symbolize individuals, nations, or kingdoms (e.g., the righteous in [[Psalm 1:3]], the proud Assyrian in [[Ezekiel 31]]). The "hewing down" of a tree, therefore, is a potent symbol of judgment, destruction, and the end of power or influence.
* **Divine Judgment & Sovereignty:** The action of "hewing down" in Daniel 4 is not a random event but a divinely ordained act. This relates gᵉdad to broader biblical themes of God's control over human affairs and His just retribution against pride and ungodliness.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of gᵉdad (`{{H1414}}`) in [[Daniel 4:14]] carries profound theological weight.
* **Divine Sovereignty Over Kings:** The most prominent theological implication is the unequivocal assertion of God's sovereignty over all earthly rulers and kingdoms. Nebuchadnezzar, the mighty king of Babylon, is depicted as a tree that can be "hewn down" at the command of a divine messenger. This illustrates that no human power, no matter how vast, is beyond God's ultimate control and judgment.
* **Humiliation of Pride:** The act of "hewing down" is a direct consequence of Nebuchadnezzar's pride and failure to acknowledge God's supremacy (cf. [[Daniel 4:30]]). It serves as a stark reminder that "He removes kings and raises up kings" [[Daniel 2:21]] and that "those who walk in pride He is able to humble" [[Daniel 4:37]].
* **Metaphor for Downfall and Restoration:** While gᵉdad specifically highlights the destructive aspect of judgment, the broader narrative of Daniel 4 includes the preservation of the "stump" and Nebuchadnezzar's eventual restoration. This suggests that divine judgment, though severe, can be redemptive, leading to humility and a true recognition of God's power and dominion. The "hewing down" is not an annihilation but a humbling process.
### Summary
The Aramaic verb gᵉdad (`{{H1414}}`), meaning "to cut down" or "to hew down," appears uniquely in [[Daniel 4:14]]. In this context, it powerfully describes the divine decree to "hew down" the symbolic tree representing King Nebuchadnezzar. This single occurrence underscores fundamental theological truths: the absolute sovereignty of God over all earthly rulers, the inevitable judgment against human pride, and the transient nature of worldly power. While related to the Hebrew gadad (`{{H1413}}`), gᵉdad in its Aramaic usage distinctly conveys a decisive, divinely orchestrated act of felling a substantial entity, illustrating the humbling power of the Most High over all creation.
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