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.
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.
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).
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.
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.
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