### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **dᵉraʻ**, represented by `{{H1872}}`, is the corresponding term for an **arm**. This word is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the scriptures, making its specific context essential to its meaning.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H1872}}` is found in the description of the great statue from Nebuchadnezzar's dream in the book of Daniel. The statue was a composite figure made of various metals, and the word specifies a part of its upper body. In this vision, the image's "breast and his **arms**" were made of silver [[Daniel 2:32]], situated between the golden head and the brass belly and thighs.
### Related Words & Concepts
The immediate context of `{{H1872}}` links it to several other key Aramaic words that describe the statue:
* `{{H6755}}` **tselem** (form, image): This is the word for the statue itself, of which the arms are a component part [[Daniel 2:32]].
* `{{H2306}}` **chădîy** (breast): This word for **breast** is paired directly with **arms** in the description, forming a single section of the statue made of the same material [[Daniel 2:32]].
* `{{H3702}}` **kᵉçaph** (money, silver): This defines the material of the **arms** and breast, distinguishing this section from the parts made of gold or brass [[Daniel 2:32]].
* `{{H7217}}` **rêʼsh** (chief, head, sum): The **head** of the image, made of fine gold, represents the section immediately preceding the silver arms [[Daniel 2:32]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H1872}}` is derived entirely from its role within the prophetic image of Daniel 2.
* **Symbol of a Kingdom:** The **arms** of silver are part of a larger **image** `{{H6755}}` that represents a succession of kingdoms. This section follows the head of gold and precedes a "third kingdom of **brass**" `{{H5174}}`, which would rule over the earth [[Daniel 2:39]].
* **Component of a Larger Prophecy:** The use of different materials for each body part, such as **silver** `{{H3702}}` for the **arms**, illustrates a sequence of distinct world powers with varying characteristics.
* **Subject to Divine Judgment:** The entire statue, including the silver **arms**, is ultimately shown to be temporary. It is struck and broken to pieces by a stone "cut out without hands," which then grows to fill the whole earth ([[Daniel 2:35]], [[Daniel 2:45]]).
### Summary
In summary, **dᵉraʻ** `{{H1872}}` is an Aramaic term for **arm** whose biblical importance comes from its singular mention. It does not carry broad theological weight on its own but functions as a crucial component of the prophetic statue in Daniel's vision. Its significance is in representing a specific kingdom in a sequence of human empires that are all destined to be shattered and replaced by a divine, eternal power.
TRV