(Aramaic) corresponding to דִּין; to judge; judge.
Transliteration:dîyn
Pronunciation:deen
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic term `{{H1778}}` (דִּין, *dîyn*) fundamentally signifies "to judge" or "judgment." As an Aramaic cognate to the Hebrew `{{H1777}}` (דִּין), it carries a similar semantic breadth, encompassing both the act of rendering a verdict and the resulting judgment or legal decree itself. It can refer to the process of a legal dispute, the decision handed down by an authority, or the administration of justice. In its nominal form, it refers to a legal case, a judgment, or a divine decree. The core idea is the authoritative discernment and declaration of right or wrong, often with consequential action.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The occurrences of `{{H1778}}` are found exclusively in the Aramaic sections of the Old Testament, specifically within the books of Daniel and Ezra.
In Daniel, the term is central to the visionary depiction of God's ultimate sovereignty and judicial authority:
* In [[Daniel 7:10]], during the vision of the Ancient of Days, it is declared that "the court sat in judgment" (*dîyn*). Here, *dîyn* refers to the divine tribunal, emphasizing the solemn and authoritative nature of God's heavenly court.
* Similarly, [[Daniel 7:26]] states, "But the court will sit, and his dominion will be taken away and annihilated forever." This verse directly links the sitting of the *dîyn* (court/judgment) with the destruction of the oppressive fourth beast's dominion, highlighting God's decisive intervention in history to execute justice.
In Ezra, `{{H1778}}` appears in a different, though related, context:
* [[Ezra 7:26]] contains King Artaxerxes' decree concerning those who would not obey the law of God or the law of the king: "let judgment (*dîyn*) be strictly executed on him." Here, *dîyn* refers to the human legal judgment or decree, specifically the punitive measures to be enforced by the king's administration. This usage underscores the concept of established law and its enforcement, even within a gentile context that benefits God's people.
### Related Words & Concepts
The Aramaic `{{H1778}}` is directly related to its Hebrew counterpart, `{{H1777}}` (דִּין, *dîyn*), which shares the identical root and semantic range, often translated as "judgment," "plea," or "controversy." Beyond this direct cognate, `{{H1778}}` connects to a broader biblical lexicon of justice and righteousness:
* `{{H4941}}` (מִשְׁפָּט, *mishpat*): A foundational Hebrew term for "justice," "judgment," "ordinance," or "right." It often refers to God's righteous decrees and the just order He establishes.
* `{{H8199}}` (שָׁפַט, *shaphat*): The verb "to judge," "to govern," or "to decide," which is the root of *mishpat*.
* `{{H6664}}` (צֶדֶק, *tsedeq*): "Righteousness" or "justice," often used in parallel with *mishpat* to describe the character of God and the ideal state of human society.
These terms collectively paint a picture of a God who is inherently just and who demands justice from His creation.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H1778}}` is profound, particularly in its usage within Daniel.
1. **Divine Sovereignty and Eschatological Judgment:** The most striking use of *dîyn* in Daniel 7 reveals God as the ultimate Judge. The "court sitting in judgment" signifies God's absolute authority over all earthly powers and His commitment to righteous rule. This is not merely a legal process but an act of divine intervention that will culminate in the establishment of God's eternal kingdom. It provides hope for the persecuted and a warning for the oppressors, affirming that God will ultimately set all things right.
2. **Justice as a Divine Attribute:** The concept of *dîyn* underscores that justice is an inherent attribute of God's character. He is not arbitrary but acts according to righteous principles, holding all creation accountable. This divine justice provides the foundation for all true justice in the universe.
3. **Human Accountability and Law:** While less prominent, the use in Ezra highlights the importance of human legal systems and accountability under authority. Even a pagan king's decree, when aligned with principles that allow God's people to flourish, can be seen as an instrument through which order and a measure of justice are maintained. It implicitly acknowledges that human governance, at its best, reflects divine order.
### Summary
The Aramaic word `{{H1778}}` (דִּין, *dîyn*) primarily denotes "judgment" or "to judge." Its most significant biblical occurrences are in Daniel 7, where it describes the solemn and authoritative heavenly court of God, emphasizing His ultimate sovereignty and eschatological judgment over all earthly powers. In Ezra 7, it refers to a human legal decree and its strict execution. Theologically, `{{H1778}}` powerfully portrays God as the supreme and righteous Judge, demonstrating His inherent justice and His commitment to establishing His just kingdom. It reminds humanity of ultimate accountability before the Divine Throne and underscores the foundational role of justice in both divine and human affairs.
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