דֹּב

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.