### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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.
TRV