### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **gᵉdad**, represented by `{{H1414}}`, means to **cut down** or **hew down**. It is a rare term, appearing only **3 times** across **2 unique verses**, with all occurrences found in the book of Daniel. Its specific usage describes a forceful and decisive act of felling.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H1414}}` is used exclusively within the context of King Nebuchadnezzar's dream of a great tree. A heavenly voice commands, "**Hew down** the tree" [[Daniel 4:14]], an action that symbolizes the impending judgment and humbling of the king. The command is repeated by a "watcher and an holy one" who descends from heaven, saying, "**Hew** the tree **down**, and destroy it" [[Daniel 4:23]]. The term is thus directly associated with the execution of a divine decree.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several other Aramaic words appear alongside `{{H1414}}` to illustrate the complete dismantling of the symbolic tree:
* `{{H7113}}` **qᵉtsats** (cut off): Used immediately after `gᵉdad`, this word describes the next step in the process: "Hew down the tree, and **cut off** his branches" [[Daniel 4:14]]. It emphasizes the dismemberment that follows the felling.
* `{{H921}}` **bᵉdar** (scatter): Following the cutting of branches, the command is to "**scatter** his fruit" [[Daniel 4:14]], showing the total dispersal of the tree's bounty and influence.
* `{{H2255}}` **chăbal** (destroy): This word is used in conjunction with `gᵉdad` to clarify the purpose of the action: "Hew the tree down, and **destroy** it" [[Daniel 4:23]], linking the act of hewing to ruin and destruction.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H1414}}` is tied directly to the concept of divine sovereignty over earthly rulers.
* **Instrument of Judgment:** The act of "hewing down" is not a natural event but a direct command from a heavenly being [[Daniel 4:23]]. It serves as a powerful metaphor for God's judgment against human pride.
* **Symbolic Downfall:** The tree represents King Nebuchadnezzar's power and dominion. To "hew it down" `{{H1414}}` is to enact his fall from power and his humbling before God.
* **Enacted Decree:** The word is part of a spoken command that is "cried aloud" `{{H7123}}` by a heavenly messenger [[Daniel 4:14]], underscoring the power of God's word to bring about judgment and reorder the world.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1414}}` is a highly specific term whose meaning is defined entirely by its context in Daniel 4. While its base definition is a simple action, "to hew down," it functions as a potent symbol of divine judgment. It illustrates God's authority to bring down the mighty from their thrones, using a vivid and forceful image of a great tree being felled by a heavenly command.
TRV