### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **daq**, represented by `{{H1851}}`, is derived from a root meaning to be crushed, and by implication refers to something **small** or **thin**. It appears 14 times across 13 unique verses in the Bible. Its applications range from describing something as a **very little thing** to being **lean-fleshed**, **small**, **thin**, or even a **dwarf**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H1851}}` is used in several distinct contexts. In Pharaoh's dream, it repeatedly describes the **thin** ears of corn and the **leanfleshed** kine that signify famine ([[Genesis 41:3-4]], [[Genesis 41:23-24]]). It is also used to describe the appearance of manna in the wilderness as a "**small** round thing" [[Exodus 16:14]]. In a ritual context, the incense brought into the Holy of Holies is "beaten **small**" [[Leviticus 16:12]]. Figuratively, Isaiah uses it to diminish the significance of powerful nations, which are like "**small** dust" or a "**very little thing**" before God [[Isaiah 40:15]]. Famously, it describes the voice of the LORD as a "still **small** voice" [[1 Kings 19:12]], showing its use beyond physical objects.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the meaning and application of `{{H1851}}`:
* `{{H1277}}` **bârîyʼ** (fat, plump): This word serves as a direct contrast to **daq**. In Pharaoh's dream, the "**leanfleshed**" (**daq**) kine devour the "**fat**" (**bârîyʼ**) kine, highlighting the severity of the coming famine [[Genesis 41:4]].
* `{{H1320}}` **bâsâr** (flesh): This term is combined with **daq** to describe the physical state of being "**leanfleshed**" (**daq** **bâsâr**), emphasizing a condition of emaciation and ill health [[Genesis 41:3]].
* `{{H1471}}` **gôwy** (nation): This word is used to show the scale of what is being diminished by **daq**. In God's sight, the powerful **nations** of the earth are considered as insignificant as a "**very little thing**" [[Isaiah 40:15]].
### Theological Significance
The word `{{H1851}}` carries significant thematic weight in several key areas of scripture.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** In Isaiah, **daq** is used to illustrate God's absolute power. The mightiest **nations** `{{H1471}}` and **terrible ones** `{{H6184}}` are rendered insignificant, like "**small** dust" or a "**very little thing**" in comparison to His greatness ([[Isaiah 29:5]], [[Isaiah 40:15]]).
* **Nature of Divine Communication:** The "still **small** voice" [[1 Kings 19:12]] reveals that God's presence is not always in overwhelming power like an **earthquake** `{{H7494}}` or **fire** `{{H784}}`, but can be found in quiet subtlety.
* **Holiness and Judgment:** In Pharaoh's dream, the **thin** `{{H1851}}` ears and **leanfleshed** `{{H1851}}` kine represent a divinely ordained famine and judgment ([[Genesis 41:3]], [[Genesis 41:7]]). Conversely, its use in Levitical law, such as the requirement for incense to be "beaten **small**" [[Leviticus 16:12]] or the disqualification of a **dwarf** `{{H1851}}` from priestly service [[Leviticus 21:20]], underscores the meticulous standards of holiness for approaching God.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1851}}` **daq** is a versatile Hebrew word that conveys the concept of being **small**, **thin**, or **crushed**. While it is used literally to describe physical characteristics, such as the **thin** ears of corn in Pharaoh's dream [[Genesis 41:6]], the **small** appearance of manna [[Exodus 16:14]], or a physical **dwarf** [[Leviticus 21:20]], its theological implications are profound. It is used to contrast human significance with divine sovereignty and to describe the subtle nature of God's communication. From a crushed grain of incense to the vast nations of the world, **daq** illustrates how scripture uses physical descriptions to reveal spiritual truths about God's power and holiness.
TRV