The Aramaic word dᵉbaq, represented by H1693, means to stick to; cleave. It appears 1 times across 1 unique verses in the Bible. This term, corresponding to its Hebrew counterpart, describes the act of two or more things bonding or adhering to one another in a strong, unified way.
The sole use of H1693 is found in Daniel's interpretation of Nebuchadnezzar's prophetic dream. The dream features a great statue whose feet are made of iron mixed with clay. In describing this final, divided kingdom, the prophecy states that its components "shall not cleave one to another, even as iron is not mixed with clay" Daniel 2:43. The word is used negatively to emphasize a fundamental lack of cohesion and unity in this future power.
Several related words provide context for the concept of mixing versus true unity:
- H6151 ʻărab (to commingle; mingle (self), mix): This word is used in direct contrast to H1693 in the same passage. While the elements of the kingdom can be mixed together, they cannot truly bond or cleave, highlighting a superficial union Daniel 2:43.
- H1934 hâvâʼ (to exist; be, become): This common Aramaic verb sets the state of being in the prophecy. It is used to frame the action, indicating that the kingdoms "shall mingle" but "shall not cleave," establishing this division as a future certainty Daniel 2:43.
The theological weight of H1693 is concentrated in its prophetic context.
- Prophetic Disunity: The inability to cleave is the defining characteristic of the final human kingdom in Daniel's vision. It symbolizes an empire or alliance that is internally fractured and inherently unstable because its parts are incompatible Daniel 2:43.
- A Lack of True Bonding: The word's use underscores the difference between a forced mixture and a genuine, strong union. The iron and clay can be combined, but they cannot cleave, illustrating that the kingdom's foundation is weak and prone to collapse.
- Inherent Incompatibility: The failure to cleave is presented as the direct result of the materials' incompatible natures. The text explicitly states this is "even as iron is not mixed with clay," making the word a metaphor for irreconcilable differences that prevent lasting unity Daniel 2:43.
In summary, H1693 dᵉbaq offers a single but potent image of disunity and weakness. Its solitary appearance in the prophecy of Daniel gives it significant meaning, defining the fatal flaw of a prophesied world power. The word powerfully distinguishes between a superficial mixture and the true, bonded strength that comes from cleaving, a quality that this final kingdom will lack.
TRV