### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **gᵉzêrâh**, represented by `{{H1510}}`, means a **decree**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Its usage is confined to the book of Daniel, where it signifies a formal, binding judgment issued from a divine source.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H1510}}` is used exclusively to describe the judgment pronounced upon King Nebuchadnezzar. In Daniel's interpretation of the king's dream, the matter is described as being "by the **decree** of the watchers" [[Daniel 4:17]]. The purpose of this divine ruling is stated explicitly: "that the living may know that the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men." Later, Daniel confirms the ultimate source of this judgment, telling the king, "this is the **decree** of the most High, which is come upon my lord the king" [[Daniel 4:24]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words clarify the nature of this divine **decree**:
* `{{H7595}}` **shᵉʼêlâʼ** (demand): Defined as "a question (at law), i.e. judicial decision or mandate; demand." It appears alongside `{{H1510}}` in [[Daniel 4:17]], emphasizing the legal and authoritative nature of the judgment.
* `{{H3983}}` **mêʼmar** (word): This term, meaning "something (authoritatively) said, i.e. an edict; appointment, word," is used in parallel with decree in [[Daniel 4:17]], where the judgment is established "by the **word** of the holy ones."
* `{{H5943}}` **ʻillay** (most high): Defined as "supreme (i.e. God); (most) high," this term identifies the ultimate author of the **decree** in both of its occurrences, confirming its divine origin ([[Daniel 4:17]], [[Daniel 4:24]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1510}}` is centered on God's absolute authority.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The **decree** serves the explicit purpose of demonstrating that the "most High" `{{H5943}}` rules over all human kingdoms and gives authority to whomever He chooses [[Daniel 4:17]].
* **Heavenly Judgment:** The verdict is presented as a **decree** from "watchers" and a "demand" from "holy ones," revealing a picture of a heavenly council announcing a judgment from God [[Daniel 4:17]].
* **Irrevocable Edict:** Daniel presents the **decree** as a final reality that has already "come upon" the king [[Daniel 4:24]], highlighting the unchangeable nature of a divine sentence once it is issued.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1510}}` **gᵉzêrâh** is a specific and powerful term for a divine **decree**. Found only in Daniel, it describes an authoritative and binding judgment originating from the "most High" and announced by heavenly beings. It is used to establish God's absolute sovereignty over all earthly rulers and conveys the weight and finality of a verdict issued from the court of heaven.
TRV