The Aramaic word detheʼ, represented by H1883, means tender grass. It is defined as a sprout or, by analogy, grass. This specific term appears only 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible, both within the same narrative.
Both occurrences of H1883 are found in the book of Daniel, within the prophetic dream of King Nebuchadnezzar and its interpretation. The word is used to describe the setting where the stump of the great tree, representing the king, is to be left. The decree states to leave the stump of the tree's roots in the earth, bound with iron and brass, "in the tender grass of the field" Daniel 4:15. This exact phrase is repeated in the interpretation of the dream, emphasizing the king's decreed humbling where his portion will be with the beasts Daniel 4:23.
Several related Aramaic words provide a fuller picture of the environment described in this context:
- H1251 bar: This word is defined as a field. It is used in direct conjunction with H1883 in the phrase "tender grass of the field" (Daniel 4:15, 4:23), establishing the location of Nebuchadnezzar's humbling. The king's dwelling is designated to be with the beasts of the field Daniel 4:25.
- H6211 ʻâsh: While defined in the legend as moth, this word is used in Daniel to mean grass. In the same verse as H1883, Nebuchadnezzar's portion is described as being with the beasts "in the grass of the earth" Daniel 4:15. He is later told he will be made to eat grass as oxen do (Daniel 4:25, 4:32).
- H772 ʼăraʻ: Meaning the earth, this word sets the foundational scene. The decree is to leave the stump of the roots "in the earth" (Daniel 4:15, 4:23), from which the tender grass grows. This term is used throughout the chapter to refer to the domain that God rules over Daniel 4:35.
The theological significance of H1883 is tied entirely to its role in the judgment and humbling of Nebuchadnezzar.
- A Symbol of a Lowly State: The tender grass is the setting for the king's debasement. He is removed from his palace and forced to live in a natural, wild state, with his portion among the beasts in the grass of the field (Daniel 4:15, 4:23).
- The Scene of Divine Sovereignty: The imagery of the king being left in the tender grass, wet with the dew of heaven, illustrates his complete subjection to God's power. His experience in the field is decreed to last until he acknowledges that the Most High rules over the kingdoms of men Daniel 4:25.
- A Detail in Judgment and Mercy: The decree to leave the stump in the tender grass is part of a judgment, but it also contains a promise of preservation. The roots are left in the earth, signifying that his kingdom will be restored once the lesson is learned Daniel 4:23.
In summary, H1883 is a rare Aramaic word for tender grass used with great specificity. Its two appearances in Daniel 4 are crucial for painting the picture of Nebuchadnezzar's humbling. The word is not merely descriptive of vegetation; it helps establish the lowly environment to which the proud king is sent as part of a divine lesson on the ultimate sovereignty of God.
TRV