### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼûwbâl**, represented by `{{H180}}`, means **a stream** or **river**. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from the word יָבַל, it specifically denotes a flowing body of water.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
All occurrences of `{{H180}}` are found in the book of Daniel, where it establishes the setting for a significant prophetic vision. Daniel sees himself "by the **river** of Ulai" [[Daniel 8:2]], which serves as the backdrop for the events that unfold. The word is used to geographically anchor the vision, with a ram described as standing "before the **river**" [[Daniel 8:3]]. This location is then the site of a confrontation, as another symbolic animal comes to the ram "standing before the **river**" [[Daniel 8:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context in which `{{H180}}` is used:
* `{{H195}}` **ʼÛwlay**: This proper noun is used to name the specific river in Daniel's vision, the **Ulai**. The term is directly paired with `{{H180}}` to identify the "river of **Ulai**" [[Daniel 8:2]].
* `{{H2377}}` **châzôwn**: This word for **vision** is central to the context, defined as "a sight (mentally), i.e. a dream, revelation, or oracle." The entire scene by the river occurs within a **vision** given to Daniel, emphasizing its divine origin [[Daniel 8:2]].
* `{{H5975}}` **ʻâmad**: Meaning **to stand**, this word describes the position of the prophetic ram in relation to the river. The ram is seen as it "stood before the river" [[Daniel 8:3]], establishing the `{{H180}}` as a key landmark for the vision's action.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H180}}` is tied to its exclusive use as a setting for divine revelation.
* **A Site for Prophetic Vision:** The river is not merely a geographical feature but the chosen location where God provides Daniel with a prophetic **vision** `{{H2377}}`. Daniel is placed "by the **river** of Ulai" to witness future events [[Daniel 8:2]].
* **Landmark for Symbolic Events:** The river serves as a crucial point of reference for the symbolic actions of the vision. The events, such as the ram standing "before the **river**" [[Daniel 8:3]] and the subsequent confrontation [[Daniel 8:6]], are all oriented around this body of water, grounding the supernatural sight in a specific location.
* **Context for Divine Communication:** The word's significance is derived from being the backdrop where Daniel "lifted up" `{{H5375}}` his "eyes" `{{H5869}}` and "saw" `{{H7200}}` what God revealed. The river itself becomes part of the stage for God's communication with his prophet.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H180}}` **ʼûwbâl**, meaning a **stream** or **river**, is a rare term used exclusively in the book of Daniel. Its importance lies not in the word itself, but in its function as the setting for a critical prophetic vision. The river Ulai provides a distinct location where Daniel beholds symbolic events concerning world powers. Therefore, **ʼûwbâl** serves as a geographical anchor for divine revelation, demonstrating how God can use specific, physical places as the stage for communicating His plans to His prophets.
TRV