### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **dîyn**, represented by `{{H1780}}`, is a term for **judgement**. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses**, corresponding to the Hebrew word for judgement. The term's meaning covers the legal process, including the suit, the sentence, and the tribunal itself, and by implication can also refer to strife.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H1780}}` is consistently found in contexts of divine or royal authority. It is used to describe the formal proceedings of a heavenly court, as when "the **judgment** was set, and the books were opened" in Daniel's vision [[Daniel 7:10]]. This judgement can be a vindication for the righteous, as when **judgement** was given to the saints [[Daniel 7:22]]. It also refers to the execution of a sentence for wrongdoing, as decreed in Ezra, where **judgement** is to be executed speedily upon lawbreakers [[Ezra 7:26]]. Furthermore, the word describes the very nature of God, with King Nebuchadnezzar declaring that God's ways are **judgement** [[Daniel 4:37]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words clarify the concept of judgment by describing the actions surrounding it:
* `{{H3488}}` **yᵉthib** (to sit or dwell): This word is frequently used alongside `{{H1780}}` to establish the setting of a formal tribunal. The **judgment** is described as being "set" [[Daniel 7:10]] or that it "shall **sit**" [[Daniel 7:26]], reinforcing the image of a court in session. This same word is used to describe the Ancient of days who "did **sit**" upon his throne [[Daniel 7:9]].
* `{{H5648}}` **ʻăbad** (to do, make, execute): This term signifies the action of carrying out a verdict. In [[Ezra 7:26]], the command is given to not just determine a judgment, but to **execute** it. It highlights that biblical judgment is not merely a declaration but an active and enforced principle.
* `{{H7}}` **ʼăbad** (to destroy, perish): This word is linked to the outcome of a negative judgment. The dominion of the wicked is taken away to be consumed and to **destroy** it, which follows the sitting of the judgment [[Daniel 7:26]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1780}}` is significant, particularly within the book of Daniel. It illustrates key principles of divine governance and justice.
* **The Divine Court:** The word is central to the vision of a heavenly tribunal where God presides as the ultimate judge. The scene where "the **judgment** was set" [[Daniel 7:10]] establishes God's absolute authority over all earthly kingdoms and rulers.
* **Execution of Justice:** `{{H1780}}` is not an abstract concept but a decisive action. It results in concrete outcomes, whether it is the punishment of the wicked [[Ezra 7:26]], the destruction of an opposing dominion [[Daniel 7:26]], or the empowerment of the saints [[Daniel 7:22]].
* **God's Just Nature:** The term is used to define the character of God's rule. Nebuchadnezzar's confession that God's "ways are **judgment**" reveals that justice is an inherent attribute of the King of heaven, not just an occasional act [[Daniel 4:37]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1780}}` provides a specific and powerful Aramaic term for **judgement** as both a process and a verdict. Though used only a few times, it is central to understanding divine authority in the contexts of Ezra and Daniel. It portrays a formal, authoritative process that originates with God and results in the active execution of justice, revealing judgment to be a foundational aspect of God's character and rule.
TRV