The Aramaic word dikkên, represented by H1797, is a pronoun used to mean this, that, or the same. It appears only 3 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible, exclusively within the book of Daniel. Its function is to point to or specify a particular object or figure being described.
In its biblical usage, H1797 serves to identify key elements within prophetic visions. For instance, in Nebuchadnezzar's dream, it is used to specify "This great image" whose form was terrible Daniel 2:31. In Daniel's own visions, the word isolates a particular antagonist, as in "the same horn" that made war against the saints and prevailed against them Daniel 7:21. It is also used to emphasize "that horn" which had eyes and a mouth that spoke very great things Daniel 7:20.
Several related Aramaic words provide context for the objects and actions identified by H1797:
- H7162 qeren (a horn): This word is directly modified by H1797 in two of its occurrences. The pronoun clarifies which specific horn is being referenced, such as "that horn that had eyes" Daniel 7:20 or "the same horn" that made war Daniel 7:21.
- H6755 tselem (an idolatrous figure; form, image): In Nebuchadnezzar's dream, H1797 points to "This great image," a central symbol of the vision whose form was terrible Daniel 2:31.
- H3202 yᵉkêl (to be able, literally... or morally; prevail): This word describes the power of the entity identified by H1797. The same horn that is singled out is the one that prevailed against the saints, demonstrating its capability Daniel 7:21.
The theological weight of H1797 comes from what it specifically identifies within prophecy.
- Prophetic Specificity: The word acts as a pointer to isolate critical symbols in complex visions. It ensures the reader focuses on the intended subject, such as the "great image" representing earthly kingdoms Daniel 2:31 or the specific horn representing a hostile power Daniel 7:21.
- Identifying Hostile Powers: In Daniel's vision of the beasts, H1797 is twice used to single out the aggressive horn that makes war H7129 with the saints H6922 and speaks "very great things" (Daniel 7:20, Daniel 7:21).
- Emphasizing Key Symbols: By pointing to "this" image or "that" horn, the word emphasizes the symbolic importance of these figures. It removes ambiguity and directs focus to the "terrible" form of the image Daniel 2:31 and the uniquely "stout" look of the horn Daniel 7:20.
In summary, H1797 dikkên is a simple but important Aramaic demonstrative pronoun. While its definition is straightforward, its role within the book of Daniel is significant. It serves as a precise identifier, drawing attention to the pivotal and often ominous symbols in prophetic revelation, ensuring that the focus remains on the specific powers and figures, like the great image and the war-making horn, that are central to the prophetic message.
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