### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **dᵉhab**, represented by `{{H1722}}`, is the term for **gold**. It appears 23 times across 23 unique verses in the Bible. As the Aramaic corresponding word for the Hebrew זָהָב, it is used to describe the precious metal in contexts of wealth, idolatry, and sacred objects.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H1722}}` is central to key events in the books of Daniel and Ezra. It is used to describe the head of **gold** in Nebuchadnezzar's prophetic dream, which is interpreted as representing the king himself [[Daniel 2:38]]. The most prominent use is in reference to the **golden** image that Nebuchadnezzar commanded all to worship ([[Daniel 3:1]], [[Daniel 3:7]]). This command led to the defiance of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who refused to serve the king's gods or worship the **golden** image [[Daniel 3:18]]. The word also denotes the **golden** vessels taken from the temple in Jerusalem, which were later profaned by Belshazzar, leading to divine judgment ([[Daniel 5:2]], [[Daniel 5:23]]). Conversely, it is also used for the **gold** freely offered for the restoration of the house of God [[Ezra 7:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the use and significance of **gold**:
* `{{H3702}}` **kᵉçaph** (silver): This term for silver frequently appears alongside **gold** in lists of valuable materials, whether used for making idols [[Daniel 5:4]] or for offerings to God [[Ezra 6:5]].
* `{{H6755}}` **tselem** (image): This word for an idolatrous figure is directly connected to **dᵉhab** in the account of the **golden** **image** erected by King Nebuchadnezzar [[Daniel 3:1]].
* `{{H3984}}` **mâʼn** (vessel): This word for utensil is used to describe the **golden** and silver **vessels** from the house of God, highlighting their sacred purpose before they were taken to Babylon [[Daniel 5:2]].
* `{{H6523}}` **parzel** (iron): As a material representing a later, stronger kingdom in Nebuchadnezzar's dream, **iron** contrasts with the **gold** of the first kingdom [[Daniel 2:35]].
* `{{H426}}` **ʼĕlâhh** (God): The choice to worship the true **God** is often set in direct opposition to the worship of idols made of **gold** and other materials ([[Daniel 3:18]], [[Daniel 5:23]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1722}}` is demonstrated through its symbolic use in contrasting worldly value with divine worth.
* **Peak of Human Power:** The head of **gold** in Nebuchadnezzar's dream symbolizes the height of human kingdoms, but one that is temporary and will be destroyed along with the kingdoms of silver, brass, and iron ([[Daniel 2:35]], [[Daniel 2:38]]).
* **The Lure of Idolatry:** **Gold** is the material of choice for the great image on the plain of Dura and for the gods praised by Belshazzar, representing a tangible but false object of worship that vies for the devotion owed only to the living God ([[Daniel 3:1]], [[Daniel 5:4]]).
* **Sanctity and Desecration:** The term distinguishes items consecrated to God, such as the **golden** vessels from the temple [[Daniel 5:3]]. Their desecration is a grave offense against God, showing that the value of an object is determined by its dedication to Him [[Daniel 5:23]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1722}}` **dᵉhab** is more than a simple descriptor for a precious metal in the Aramaic scriptures. It functions as a powerful symbol for wealth, power, and value, highlighting the critical distinction between the transient glory of earthly kingdoms and the objects of idolatry, and the eternal worth of what is consecrated to the one true God.
TRV