### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **dâr**, represented by `{{H1859}}`, means **an age** or **generation**. It is the Aramaic correspondent to the Hebrew word דּוֹר. Though it appears only **4 times** across **2 unique verses**, its usage powerfully conveys the concept of enduring time and perpetual authority.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{H1859}}` is used exclusively in the book of Daniel to describe the eternal nature of God's kingdom and dominion. In a declaration of praise, King Nebuchadnezzar contrasts the temporal nature of human power with divine sovereignty. He proclaims that God's dominion is "from **generation** to **generation**" [[Daniel 4:3]]. This phrase is repeated after his understanding is restored, where he blesses the most High, whose kingdom continues "from **generation** to **generation**" [[Daniel 4:34]], establishing a theme of God's unending reign.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words found in the same context highlight the theme of God's eternal rule:
* `{{H7985}}` **sholṭân** (dominion): This word for empire or dominion is directly linked with `{{H1859}}`. The eternal nature of God's **dominion** is a central theme, as seen in the decree that His **dominion** shall be even unto the end [[Daniel 6:26]].
* `{{H4437}}` **malkûw** (kingdom): This term for a kingdom or realm is also used in parallel with `{{H1859}}`. It emphasizes the scope of God's authority, which is described as a **kingdom** that God will set up that shall never be destroyed [[Daniel 2:44]].
* `{{H5957}}` **ʻâlam** (everlasting): This word, meaning remote or indefinite time, reinforces the concept of perpetuity. It is used alongside "generation to generation" to describe God's rule, such as when His dominion is called an **everlasting** dominion [[Daniel 7:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H1859}}` is centered on the nature of God's sovereignty.
* **Perpetual Authority:** The phrase "from generation to generation" is a key descriptor of God's kingdom `{{H4437}}` and dominion `{{H7985}}`. It establishes that His rule is not confined to a single era or lifetime but extends through all of human history [[Daniel 4:3]].
* **Divine Contrast to Human Rule:** The term is used in declarations by human kings like Nebuchadnezzar, who, after being humbled, acknowledges that God's authority is supreme and unending. This contrasts the eternal reign of the most High `{{H5943}}` with the rise and fall of earthly empires [[Daniel 4:34]].
* **Eternal Continuity:** Used alongside words like **ʻâlam** `{{H5957}}`, meaning "everlasting," `{{H1859}}` serves to emphasize the unending and continuous nature of God's governance over all creation, reinforcing His role as the one who lives for ever [[Daniel 4:34]].
### Summary
In summary, **dâr** `{{H1859}}` is a concise but significant term in biblical Aramaic. Appearing exclusively in declarations of God's greatness within the book of Daniel, it defines His rule as something that transcends all human timeframes. By marking His kingdom and dominion as lasting from "generation to generation," this word provides a powerful testament to the eternal and unbreakable sovereignty of God.
TRV