### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼÛwlay**, represented by `{{H195}}`, refers to the **Ulai**, a river of Persia. This term is derived from Persian and appears only **2 times** in **2 unique verses** within the Bible. Its significance is not found in a conceptual meaning, but in its specific role as the geographical setting for a major prophetic event.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Both occurrences of `{{H195}}` are found in the book of Daniel, establishing the location of a critical divine encounter. The prophet Daniel states, "I saw in a vision... I was by the river of **Ulai**" [[Daniel 8:2]]. This place becomes the backdrop for a revelation from God. The river is further integrated into the event when Daniel "heard a man's voice between the banks of **Ulai**, which called, and said, Gabriel, make this man to understand the vision" [[Daniel 8:16]]. The river is thus the precise location from which divine instruction is issued.
### Related Words & Concepts
The events at the river **Ulai** are closely associated with several key Hebrew words that describe the prophetic experience:
* `{{H2377}}` **châzôwn** (vision): This is the word used to describe what Daniel experienced while at the **Ulai** [[Daniel 8:2]]. A **châzôwn** is defined as "a sight (mentally), i.e. a dream, revelation, or oracle," and its reception marks the location as a site of divine communication.
* `{{H8085}}` **shâmaʻ** (to hear): The experience at the river was both visual and auditory. Daniel **heard** a voice from the **Ulai** [[Daniel 8:16]]. This term means "to hear intelligently," often implying obedience, and is central to receiving God's commands.
* `{{H995}}` **bîyn** (understand): The purpose of the voice from the **Ulai** was to command Gabriel to make Daniel **understand** the vision [[Daniel 8:16]]. This word means "to separate mentally (or distinguish)," highlighting that God-given revelations also require divine assistance for proper interpretation.
### Theological Significance
The theological importance of `{{H195}}` is tied to the events that unfold at this location.
* **The Setting of Divine Revelation:** The use of the **Ulai** river demonstrates that God's communication is not limited to traditionally holy places. He can reveal His will to His servants in any location, including a river in the province of Elam [[Daniel 8:2]].
* **The Mandate for Understanding:** A voice issues a direct command from the **Ulai** to ensure Daniel understands the vision [[Daniel 8:16]]. This shows that God's purpose in revelation is not obscurity but clarity, and He provides the means for His prophets to have intelligence concerning His plans.
* **The Intersection of Realms:** At the river **Ulai**, the earthly and heavenly realms meet. A human prophet on a riverbank witnesses a divine vision `{{H2377}}` and hears a supernatural voice that commands an angel, showing how God orchestrates angelic ministry to interact with humanity.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H195}}` **ʼÛwlay** is simply the name of a river in Persia, its two appearances in Scripture are highly significant. The **Ulai** is not a passive backdrop but the very stage for a profound prophetic encounter in the life of Daniel. It serves as a powerful illustration of how an ordinary geographical place can become a site of extraordinary divine revelation, where God's visions are seen, His voice is heard, and His will is made known.
TRV