### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **dâlîyâh**, represented by `{{H1808}}`, refers to a **bough** or **branch**. Its base definition suggests something dangling. It appears **8 times** across **8 unique verses** in the Bible, exclusively within the prophetic books of Ezekiel and Jeremiah. This term is often used metaphorically to describe the growth, prosperity, and judgment of nations and their rulers.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In prophetic literature, `{{H1808}}` is used figuratively to illustrate the state of nations and their leaders. The grandeur of the Assyrian empire is depicted as a fair tree with a "multitude of his **branches**" [[Ezekiel 31:9]] and great length in its **branches** [[Ezekiel 31:7]]. Conversely, its downfall is shown when strangers cut it off and its **branches** are fallen and broken [[Ezekiel 31:12]]. Similarly, Israel is described as a green olive tree whose **branches** are broken as a sign of judgment [[Jeremiah 11:16]]. The word also portrays Israel as a vine, sometimes of low stature with **branches** turning toward God [[Ezekiel 17:6]], and at other times shooting forth its **branches** toward other powers for support [[Ezekiel 17:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller picture of the botanical imagery used in scripture:
* `{{H6086}}` **ʻêts** (a tree): This is the foundational object to which branches belong. It is used to describe the great Assyrian empire, which was envied by "all the **trees** of Eden" because of its magnificent branches [[Ezekiel 31:9]].
* `{{H6529}}` **pᵉrîy** (fruit): This word signifies the productive outcome of healthy branches. A promised goodly cedar will bear **fruit** and provide shelter with its branches [[Ezekiel 17:23]].
* `{{H6057}}` **ʻânâph** (bough, branch): Often used alongside `{{H1808}}`, this term also refers to a branch. God promises that a planted cedar will "bring forth **boughs**" and that creatures will dwell in the shadow of its branches [[Ezekiel 17:23]].
* `{{H8328}}` **sheresh** (a root): The source of a tree's strength and the support for its branches. The greatness of a tree's branches is attributed to its **root** being by great waters [[Ezekiel 31:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1808}}` is evident in its consistent use as a metaphor for the status of nations before God.
* **Symbol of National Glory:** The abundance and length of **branches** are used to depict the power, splendor, and influence of a kingdom. This is seen in the description of a vine whose stature was exalted with the "multitude of her **branches**" [[Ezekiel 19:11]] and a cedar made fair by its many **branches** [[Ezekiel 31:9]].
* **Metaphor for Divine Judgment:** The destruction of a nation is vividly portrayed as the cutting off or breaking of its **branches**. The LORD breaks the **branches** of Israel, depicted as an olive tree, because of their disobedience [[Jeremiah 11:16]]. Similarly, a mighty empire is judged when its **branches** are fallen and broken [[Ezekiel 31:12]].
* **Indicator of Allegiance:** The orientation of the **branches** reveals a nation's source of trust. A healthy vine has **branches** that turn toward God [[Ezekiel 17:6]], while a compromised nation shoots its **branches** toward other powers for sustenance [[Ezekiel 17:7]].
### Summary
In summary, **dâlîyâh** `{{H1808}}` is a potent prophetic term. While its literal meaning is a simple **branch**, it functions as a powerful symbol for the life, strength, and glory of nations. Its condition—whether flourishing, broken, or reaching for a new source—serves as a divine illustration of national prosperity, judgment, and the critical nature of allegiance to God.
TRV