The Aramaic word hădar, represented by H1922, is a term used to magnify, glorify, or honour. As an Aramaic word corresponding to the Hebrew הָדַר, its usage is specific and potent. It appears just 3 times in the Bible, across 3 unique verses, exclusively within the book of Daniel.
In its biblical usage, H1922 exclusively describes the act of giving glory to God, often as a response to His supreme power. After his period of madness, King Nebuchadnezzar lifts his eyes to heaven and his understanding returns, leading him to honour "him that liveth for ever" Daniel 4:34. He repeats this sentiment, declaring that he will honour the King of heaven, whose ways are just Daniel 4:37. The word is also used to highlight a failure of worship; Belshazzar is condemned because, unlike Nebuchadnezzar, he praised gods of silver and gold but did not glorify the true God who held his life and ways in His hand Daniel 5:23.
Several related Aramaic words appear alongside H1922 to build a vocabulary of worship and sovereignty in the book of Daniel:
- H7624 shᵉbach (praise): This word, meaning to adore or praise, is frequently paired with honouring God. It is used both for praising the true God Daniel 2:23 and for praising false gods made of wood and stone Daniel 5:4.
- H7313 rûwm (extol, lift up): Meaning to raise or be high, this term can refer to extolling God Daniel 4:37 or, in a negative sense, when a person has "lifted up" themselves against the Lord of heaven Daniel 5:23.
- H1289 bᵉrak (bless, kneel): This word signifies blessing God as an act of adoration. Daniel uses it after a secret is revealed to him, when he "blessed the God of heaven" Daniel 2:19.
- H5943 ʻillay ((most) high): This term for "supreme" is used as a title for God, identifying Him as the one who rightly deserves to be glorified. Nebuchadnezzar learns that the most High rules in the kingdom of men Daniel 4:25.
- H8065 shâmayin (heaven): This word for the sky is consistently used to associate God with His celestial throne, as the "God of heaven" Daniel 2:19 or the "King of heaven" Daniel 4:37.
The theological significance of H1922 is centered on the proper response to divine sovereignty.
- The Rightful Object of Glory: The word is used to establish that honour and glory belong solely to the one true God, described as the "most High" Daniel 4:34 and the "King of heaven" Daniel 4:37.
- A Response to Humbling: The act of glorifying God is presented as the correct action following a period of humbling. It is only after being abased that Nebuchadnezzar learns to honour God, acknowledging His power over the proud Daniel 4:37.
- The Sin of Omission: Failing to glorify God is presented as a grave sin. Belshazzar's downfall is sealed not just for praising idols, but specifically for his refusal to glorify the God who gave him breath Daniel 5:23.
In summary, H1922 hădar is a concise but powerful word in the Aramaic portions of Scripture. Its few appearances in Daniel are pivotal, underscoring the book's central theme: the absolute sovereignty of God and the necessity for all people, from humble servants to the most powerful kings, to give Him the glory He is due. It contrasts the empty praise of idols with the meaningful honour given to the eternal King of heaven.
TRV