(Aramaic) from גְּזַר (as גָּזַר); a decree; decree.
Transliteration:gᵉzêrâh
Pronunciation:ghez-ay-raw'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic noun גְּזֵרָה (gᵉzêrâh, `{{H1510}}`) derives from the verbal root גְּזַר (gāzar, `{{H1504}}`), which carries the core meaning of "to cut," "to cut off," "to divide," or by extension, "to decide," "to determine," or "to decree." As a noun, גְּזֵרָה therefore signifies something that has been "cut off" or "determined," thus a "decree," "an authoritative pronouncement," or an "established decision." The semantic range emphasizes the finality and binding nature of such a pronouncement, implying a definitive and unalterable command or judgment. It is not merely a suggestion but an enacted will.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term גְּזֵרָה (gᵉzêrâh, `{{H1510}}`) appears exclusively in the Aramaic portions of the Book of Daniel, specifically in chapter 4. Its limited but significant occurrences are crucial for understanding its theological weight:
* [[Daniel 4:17]]: "This matter is by the decree of the watchers, and the demand by the word of the holy ones: to the intent that the living may know that the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will, and setteth up over it the basest of men." Here, "decree" (גְּזֵרָה) refers to a divine, celestial pronouncement concerning Nebuchadnezzar's impending judgment. It underscores the authoritative and predetermined nature of this divine action, originating from a heavenly council.
* [[Daniel 4:24]]: "This is the interpretation, O king, and this is the decree of the most High, which is come upon my lord the king:" In this verse, Daniel explicitly attributes the "decree" (גְּזֵרָה) to "the Most High," confirming its ultimate divine origin and unchallengeable authority. The context is Nebuchadnezzar's pride and the subsequent divine judgment that will humble him, demonstrating God's sovereign control over earthly rulers and kingdoms.
In both instances, גְּזֵרָה functions as a powerful declaration of God's sovereign will, executed in human history, specifically in the realm of kingship and national destiny. It is a pronouncement of judgment that is certain to come to pass.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the verbal root גָּזַר (gāzar, `{{H1504}}`), from which גְּזֵרָה (gᵉzêrâh, `{{H1510}}`) is derived. This root's meaning of "to cut off" or "to determine" directly informs the noun's sense of a definitive decision.
Other related concepts and words, though not etymologically linked, share semantic territory in conveying authoritative commands or judgments:
* Hebrew חֹק (choq, `{{H2706}}`): often translated as "statute" or "ordinance," particularly divine laws.
* Hebrew מִשְׁפָּט (mishpat, `{{H4941}}`): "judgment," "justice," or "ordinance," often referring to legal or divine decrees.
* Aramaic טְעֵם (ṭᵉʿēm, `{{H2942}}`): "decree," "command," frequently used for royal edicts.
* Aramaic מִלָּה (millah, `{{H4406}}`): "word" or "matter," which can sometimes denote a command or pronouncement in specific contexts.
While these terms may overlap in meaning, גְּזֵרָה (gᵉzêrâh, `{{H1510}}`) in Daniel carries a unique emphasis on the unalterable, divine determination of events, often with a focus on judgment and the outworking of God's sovereign plan.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of גְּזֵרָה (gᵉzêrâh, `{{H1510}}`) is profound, particularly within the eschatological and sovereign themes of the Book of Daniel.
1. **Divine Sovereignty:** The most prominent theological implication is the absolute and unchallengeable sovereignty of God. The "decree" is not subject to human appeal or alteration; it is the definitive expression of the Most High's will, demonstrating that He "ruleth in the kingdom of men" ([[Daniel 4:17]]).
2. **Divine Determinism:** It highlights God's active role in determining the course of human history and the destinies of nations and individuals. The events unfolding in Nebuchadnezzar's life are not random but are the precise fulfillment of a divinely issued decree.
3. **Justice and Judgment:** The decree in Daniel 4 is one of judgment against pride and self-exaltation. It serves as a stark reminder that even the most powerful earthly rulers are accountable to the divine authority.
4. **Cosmic Scope of God's Rule:** The mention of "watchers" and "holy ones" in [[Daniel 4:17]] suggests that God's decrees are not merely earthly pronouncements but are part of a larger, cosmic administration of His will, involving heavenly beings in their execution.
5. **Certainty of Prophecy:** For the reader, the concept of a divine גְּזֵרָה instills confidence in the certainty of God's prophetic word and His ultimate control over all things, providing both warning to the rebellious and comfort to the faithful.
### Summary
גְּזֵרָה (gᵉzêrâh, `{{H1510}}`) is an Aramaic term signifying a "decree" or "authoritative pronouncement," rooted in the idea of something "cut off" or "determined" with finality. Its primary biblical occurrences in Daniel 4 consistently refer to the unalterable, sovereign decrees of God concerning His rule over earthly kingdoms and His judgments upon human pride. Theologically, גְּזֵרָה powerfully underscores God's absolute sovereignty, His active determination of historical events, and the certainty of His divine judgments. It serves as a potent reminder that the Most High reigns supreme, executing His will with unwavering authority over all creation.
TRV