### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **zîyv**, represented by `{{H2122}}`, is a term for **brightness** or **countenance**. It appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible. Figuratively, it can convey cheerfulness, but its primary use in scripture is to describe either a radiant splendor associated with glory or the visible change in a person's face in response to their inner emotional state.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, all occurrences of `{{H2122}}` are found in the book of Daniel, where it serves two distinct functions. It describes the majestic **brightness** of the great image in Nebuchadnezzar's dream, which was "excellent" and terrible [[Daniel 2:31]]. It also refers to the restoration of Nebuchadnezzar's royal splendor, when his honor and **brightness** returned to him [[Daniel 4:36]]. Conversely, it is used to describe a person's physical reaction to distress, as when King Belshazzar's **countenance** "was changed" by troubling thoughts [[Daniel 5:6]], a fate Daniel himself experienced after a vision [[Daniel 7:28]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words provide context for the dual meanings of `{{H2122}}`:
* `{{H8133}}` **shᵉnâʼ** (to alter, change): This verb is consistently used with `zîyv` to describe a physical transformation due to distress. The king's **countenance** "was changed" in him upon seeing the writing on the wall [[Daniel 5:9]].
* `{{H7476}}` **raʻyôwn** (cogitation, thought): This word highlights the internal source of the external change. A person's **countenance** changes because their **thoughts** have troubled them [[Daniel 5:6]].
* `{{H927}}` **bᵉhal** (to trouble): The change in countenance is a direct result of being **troubled**. King Belshazzar was greatly **troubled**, which was visibly reflected in his changed countenance [[Daniel 5:9]].
* `{{H1923}}` **hădar** (magnificence; honour, majesty): This term links `zîyv` to royal glory. When Nebuchadnezzar was restored, his **honour** and **brightness** returned to him together [[Daniel 4:36]].
### Theological Significance
The usage of `{{H2122}}` in the book of Daniel carries significant weight in its portrayal of human and divine states.
* **An External Indicator of Inner Turmoil:** The word consistently links a person's visible appearance to their internal state. A changed **countenance** is the physical manifestation of being troubled by divine revelations or unsettling events, as seen in both King Belshazzar [[Daniel 5:6]] and Daniel himself [[Daniel 7:28]].
* **A Reflection of Royal Glory:** When used as **brightness**, the word describes the splendor associated with power. This is seen in the "excellent" **brightness** of the statue in Nebuchadnezzar's dream [[Daniel 2:31]] and in the restoration of his own royal **brightness** after a period of humbling [[Daniel 4:36]].
* **The Fragility of Human Composure:** The repeated changing of the **countenance** of a powerful king highlights how human authority is fragile. Belshazzar's composure is shattered by supernatural events, and the queen advises him not to let his **countenance** be changed [[Daniel 5:10]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2122}}` is a dynamic word that captures both outward majesty and inward emotion. It can signify the glorious **brightness** associated with power and royalty or the shifting **countenance** that reveals a person's inner thoughts and fears. Its usage illustrates how a person's face can serve as a canvas for their emotional and spiritual state, especially when confronted with matters of divine importance.
TRV