### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **dôb**, represented by `{{H1678}}`, is the term for **bear**. It appears **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. The word's definition, "the bear (as slow)," points to the specific animal used for symbolic imagery in its single biblical context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H1678}}` occurs within a prophetic vision in the book of Daniel. It is described as the second of four great beasts that arise from the sea. The passage states, "And behold another beast, a second, like to a **bear**" [[Daniel 7:5]]. In this vision, the bear is portrayed with three ribs in its mouth and is commanded to "Arise, devour much flesh," highlighting its destructive role.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words provide context for the bear's role in this vision:
* `{{H2423}}` **chêyvâʼ** (an animal; beast): This word establishes the category to which the bear belongs. The vision introduces four great **beasts** that come up from the sea, with the bear being the second one [[Daniel 7:3]].
* `{{H399}}` **ʼăkal** (devour, eat): This verb describes the specific, violent action assigned to the bear. The command is given for it to "Arise, **devour** much flesh" [[Daniel 7:5]], which is also an action of the fourth beast.
* `{{H1321}}` **bᵉshar** (flesh): This is the object of the bear's commanded destruction. The instruction to devour "much **flesh**" emphasizes the scope of its voraciousness [[Daniel 7:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H1678}}` is entirely symbolic, derived from its singular appearance in Daniel's vision.
* **Symbol of a World Power:** As the second of four beasts, the **bear** represents a kingdom or worldly power within a sequence of prophetic events [[Daniel 7:5]].
* **Character of Conquest:** The imagery of the bear raising itself up and holding ribs in its mouth portrays a power that is aggressive and has already engaged in conquest [[Daniel 7:5]].
* **A Devouring Mandate:** The divine-like command given to the bear to "devour much flesh" frames its destructive nature as a permitted, integral part of its purpose in the vision [[Daniel 7:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1678}}` is a term used with precise symbolic weight rather than for its literal meaning. Its only appearance in scripture casts the **bear** as a key figure in prophetic imagery, representing a formidable and voracious worldly kingdom. The word's context in [[Daniel 7:5]] defines it as a symbol of brutal, consuming power.
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