The Aramaic word dâʼ, represented by H1668, is a demonstrative pronoun corresponding to the Hebrew word for "this." It can also be used in the construct "one..another." It appears 6 times across 4 unique verses, primarily in the book of Daniel, where it serves to point out specific objects or describe reciprocal relationships.
In its biblical usage, H1668 serves two distinct functions. First, it identifies a specific entity, as when King Nebuchadnezzar proudly refers to "this great Babylon" Daniel 4:30 or when Daniel's vision focuses on the features of "this horn" Daniel 7:8. Second, it conveys a reciprocal or comparative idea. This is seen in the description of the four great beasts being "diverse one from another" Daniel 7:3 and in the terrifying image of a king whose knees "smote one against another" in fear Daniel 5:6.
Several related words help clarify the context in which H1668 is used:
- H317 ʼochŏrîy (other): This Aramaic word for "other" or "another" is used alongside dâʼ to distinguish between prophetic figures, such as when "another little horn" came up among the first ones, and Daniel's attention is drawn to "this horn" in particular Daniel 7:8.
- H8133 shᵉnâʼ (diverse): Meaning to be diverse, altered, or changed, this word directly qualifies the relationship between the four beasts that were "diverse one from another" Daniel 7:3, a phrase that uses dâʼ.
- H2423 chêyvâʼ (beast): The prophetic visions in Daniel often feature a beast or multiple beasts. Dâʼ is used both to describe the beasts' relationship to one another Daniel 7:3 and to single out the specific horn on one such beast Daniel 7:8.
The function of H1668, while simple, carries significance in its narrative placement.
- Prophetic Specificity: In the visions of Daniel, dâʼ isolates specific symbols, like "this horn," for detailed interpretation. This underscores that prophetic details are precise and point to particular powers or events, not vague concepts Daniel 7:8.
- Marker of Pride: The word is used by Nebuchadnezzar at the height of his arrogance when he boasts about "this great Babylon" which he built. Its use immediately precedes the announcement of his divine judgment, linking the act of pointing with human pride Daniel 4:30.
- Illustrating Contrast and Division: When used as "one...another," the term highlights a state of conflict, fear, or fundamental difference. It describes the four beasts as distinct from each other Daniel 7:3 and the physical terror of Belshazzar, whose knees knocked together Daniel 5:6.
In summary, H1668 dâʼ is a crucial Aramaic demonstrative. While its definition is straightforward ("this" or "one..another"), its application within the book of Daniel is key to understanding the focus of the narrative. It directs the reader's attention to specific agents of prophecy, marks moments of critical human pride, and establishes the essential distinctions and conflicts between the figures in Daniel's visions.
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