### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **haddâm**, represented by `{{H1917}}`, refers to something stamped to pieces, meaning a **bit** or **piece**. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible, exclusively within the book of Daniel. Its meaning denotes complete fragmentation or dismemberment as a form of severe punishment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H1917}}` is used in the context of royal decrees issued by King Nebuchadnezzar. It signifies a gruesome penalty for disobedience. In [[Daniel 2:5]], the king threatens his Chaldeans that if they cannot interpret his dream, they "shall be cut in **pieces**." Later, after the deliverance of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego from the fiery furnace, the king issues another decree stating that anyone who speaks against their God "shall be cut in **pieces**" [[Daniel 3:29]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of this extreme judgment:
* `{{H5648}}` **ʻăbad** (to do, make, prepare, keep, etc.): This verb is used to carry out the action of the punishment, idiomatically meaning to "cut" or "execute" those sentenced. Both decrees use this word to command that the offenders be "cut" in pieces ([[Daniel 2:5]], [[Daniel 3:29]]).
* `{{H5122}}` **nᵉvâlûw** (dunghill): This term is used in direct parallel with `{{H1917}}` to describe the complete ruin that would accompany the dismemberment. The houses of the condemned would be made a **dunghill**, signifying total destruction and public disgrace ([[Daniel 2:5]], [[Daniel 3:29]]).
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{H1917}}` highlights themes of absolute power and the finality of judgment.
* **Absolute Royal Authority:** The word is used exclusively in decrees from a monarch to demonstrate his power over life and death. The threat of being cut into **pieces** is a tool to command total obedience from his subjects [[Daniel 2:5]].
* **Total Destruction:** The punishment is not merely death but annihilation. Being cut into **pieces** and having one’s house turned into a "dunghill" `{{H5122}}` signifies the complete eradication of a person's life, legacy, and honor [[Daniel 3:29]].
* **Vindication of Divine Power:** In its second usage, the threat of being cut in **pieces** is redirected to defend God's honor. It serves as a punishment for those who would defy the God who has the ultimate power to "deliver" [[Daniel 3:29]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1917}}` is a potent Aramaic word for **piece** that is used specifically to describe a violent and final punishment. While its occurrences are rare, its context in the book of Daniel is highly significant. It illustrates the stark reality of absolute earthly power and, by extension, serves as a powerful metaphor for the severe consequences of defying divine authority.
TRV