(Aramaic) corresponding to דָּמָה; to resemble; be like.
Transliteration:dᵉmâh
Pronunciation:dem-aw'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic verb `{{H1821}}` (dᵉmâh) carries the fundamental meaning of "to resemble" or "to be like." It is the Aramaic cognate of the Hebrew `{{H1819}}` (dāmāh), which shares this core semantic range, though the Hebrew counterpart can also extend to concepts of imagination, comparison, or even perishing depending on the root's distinct branches. For `{{H1821}}`, the focus is singularly on the concept of similarity or likeness in appearance, form, or characteristic. It describes a state where one entity bears a significant resemblance to another, allowing for comparison and identification based on shared attributes.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Occurring exclusively in the Aramaic portions of the book of Daniel, `{{H1821}}` plays a pivotal role in describing the symbolic visions and supernatural manifestations. Its usage consistently highlights visual or conceptual similarity rather than absolute identity.
1. **[[Daniel 3:25]]**: "He answered and said, Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt; and the form of the fourth is `{{H1821}}` like the Son of God." Here, Nebuchadnezzar describes the appearance of the fourth figure in the fiery furnace. The term `{{H1821}}` emphasizes that this figure *resembles* a divine being, conveying awe and mystery without definitively declaring its nature. It speaks to the king's perception of a supernatural presence.
2. **[[Daniel 7:4]]**: "The first was `{{H1821}}` like a lion, and had eagle's wings..."
3. **[[Daniel 7:5]]**: "And behold another beast, a second, `{{H1821}}` like to a bear, and it raised up itself on one side..."
4. **[[Daniel 7:6]]**: "After this I beheld, and lo another, `{{H1821}}` like a leopard, which had upon the back of it four wings of a fowl..."
In these verses from Daniel 7, `{{H1821}}` is crucial for understanding the symbolic nature of Daniel's apocalyptic vision. The four great beasts are not literal animals but are depicted as *resembling* specific creatures to convey their characteristics, power, and nature. The use of `{{H1821}}` underscores that these are analogies, providing a framework for interpreting the prophetic imagery without suggesting a literal transformation into animals.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic connection for `{{H1821}}` is its Hebrew counterpart, `{{H1819}}` (dāmāh), meaning "to be like, resemble." From this root, the Hebrew noun `{{H1823}}` (dᵉmût), meaning "likeness" or "similitude," is derived. `{{H1823}}` is frequently used in contexts of divine image (e.g., [[Genesis 1:26]]) or visionary appearances (e.g., [[Ezekiel 1:5]], [[Ezekiel 10:1]]). While `{{H1823}}` is a noun describing the state of likeness, `{{H1821}}` is the verb that expresses the act or state of *being* like.
Other related concepts include:
* **Similitude/Analogy:** The very essence of comparison, where one thing is understood by its resemblance to another.
* **Symbolism:** The use of an object or idea to represent something else, often abstract.
* **Appearance/Form:** What is outwardly perceived, as opposed to intrinsic nature.
* **Image:** As in `{{H6754}}` (tselem), which often refers to a physical representation or an inherent likeness, though `{{H1821}}` focuses more on the comparative aspect.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H1821}}` lies primarily in its role within prophetic and revelatory contexts.
1. **Interpretation of Prophecy:** In Daniel 7, the use of `{{H1821}}` signals that the visions are symbolic. The beasts are not literal creatures but represent kingdoms and rulers. This emphasizes that divine revelation often employs figurative language, requiring careful interpretation that recognizes the distinction between the symbol and the reality it represents. It teaches us to look beyond the literal form to the underlying meaning.
2. **Divine Otherness and Manifestation:** In [[Daniel 3:25]], the description of the fourth figure as "like the Son of God" is profound. The term `{{H1821}}` preserves the mystery and transcendence of the divine. It suggests that while God (or His messenger) can manifest in a form perceivable by humans, His essence remains distinct and beyond full human comprehension. The "likeness" hints at a divine nature without fully defining it, maintaining a reverent distance. This usage underscores that even in revelation, God retains His unique identity, only revealing Himself in ways humans can apprehend.
3. **The Nature of Analogy in Revelation:** The consistent use of `{{H1821}}` highlights that God often communicates profound truths through analogy. Human language and experience are limited, so divine realities are frequently presented in terms that resemble what is known, allowing for understanding without exhaustive definition. This method of communication respects both human limitations and divine majesty.
### Summary
The Aramaic verb `{{H1821}}` (dᵉmâh) precisely conveys the meaning "to resemble" or "to be like." Its few but crucial occurrences in the book of Daniel illuminate its theological importance. In prophetic visions, `{{H1821}}` clarifies that symbolic representations (like the beasts in Daniel 7) are analogies, not literal identities, guiding the interpreter to seek the underlying meaning. Furthermore, in the description of the divine figure in [[Daniel 3:25]], `{{H1821}}` reverently communicates the appearance of a supernatural being, emphasizing likeness without fully defining its essence, thereby preserving divine transcendence. The word underscores the role of analogy in divine revelation, allowing for human comprehension of spiritual truths while maintaining the mystery of God's ultimate nature.
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