### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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