(Aramaic) from זְמָן; the same as זְמָן; {an appointed occasion}; season, time.
Transliteration:zᵉmân
Pronunciation:zem-awn'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic term זְמָן (`{{H2166}}`, transliterated as *zᵉmân*) denotes a specific, appointed, or fixed period of "time," an "occasion," or a "season." Unlike a general, undefined span of time, *zᵉmân* carries the nuance of a designated moment or duration, often implying a pre-ordained or set appointment. Its semantic range thus centers on the concept of ordered and purposeful time, rather than merely chronological progression. It is closely related to the Hebrew עֵת (`{{H6256}}`), which also signifies an appointed or proper time, and מוֹעֵד (`{{H4150}}`), an appointed time or season, particularly for divine assemblies or festivals.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
As an Aramaic word, זְמָן (`{{H2166}}`) is found exclusively in the Aramaic sections of the Old Testament, specifically in the books of Daniel and Ezra. It appears 10 times, with a significant concentration in Daniel.
In Daniel, *zᵉmân* often relates to periods of divine revelation, judgment, or prophetic fulfillment:
* In [[Daniel 2:9]] and [[Daniel 2:16]], it refers to the "time" granted to the Chaldean wise men and then to Daniel, respectively, for the king's dream to be revealed. Here, it signifies a specific, limited period for a crucial divine disclosure.
* [[Daniel 3:7]] and [[Daniel 3:15]] use *zᵉmân* to describe the precise "time" or "moment" when all peoples were commanded to worship Nebuchadnezzar's golden image. This highlights a fixed occasion for a test of loyalty.
* [[Daniel 4:16]] (and implicitly [[Daniel 4:23]] and [[Daniel 4:25]]) speaks of "seven periods of time" passing over Nebuchadnezzar, referring to a divinely appointed duration of his madness.
* [[Daniel 7:12]] states that the lives of the preceding beasts were prolonged for "a season and a time" (*zᵉmân*), indicating a definite, though limited, extension of their dominion.
* Most profoundly, [[Daniel 7:25]] uses *zᵉmân* three times in the phrase "a time, times, and half a time" (Aramaic: עִדָּן וְעִדָּנִין וּפְלַג עִדָּן), referring to a specific, divinely ordained duration of tribulation under the "little horn." This phrase is pivotal for understanding prophetic timelines and the limited nature of oppressive power.
In Ezra, *zᵉmân* refers to a specific historical "time" or occasion:
* [[Ezra 5:3]] uses *zᵉmân* to mark the "time" when Tattenai and his associates confronted the returning exiles about rebuilding the temple. It denotes a particular historical juncture.
Across these contexts, זְמָן consistently points to a divinely ordered or historically significant period, underscoring the purposeful unfolding of events within God's sovereign plan.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept conveyed by זְמָן (`{{H2166}}`) resonates strongly with several Hebrew and Greek terms:
* **Hebrew:**
* עֵת (`{{H6256}}`): This is arguably the closest Hebrew equivalent, also meaning "time," often with the connotation of an appointed, opportune, or proper time for an action or event (e.g., [[Ecclesiastes 3:1]]).
* מוֹעֵד (`{{H4150}}`): "Appointed time," "appointed place," or "assembly." This term is frequently used for God's appointed festivals and sacred seasons, emphasizing divine scheduling and purpose.
* יוֹם (`{{H3117}}`): "Day," a more general unit of time, but can also refer to a specific "day" of significance (e.g., "the day of the Lord").
* **Greek (New Testament conceptual parallels):**
* καιρός (`{{G2540}}`): "Opportune time," "season," or "fixed time." This term carries a qualitative sense of time, emphasizing the right or critical moment, much like *zᵉmân*.
* χρόνος (`{{G5550}}`): "Chronological time," a more quantitative or general sense of time's duration.
The overarching concept is that of divine sovereignty over time, where events unfold not by chance, but according to God's precise and predetermined schedule.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of זְמָן (`{{H2166}}`) is profound, particularly within the prophetic framework of Daniel. Its usage highlights several key truths:
1. **Divine Sovereignty over Time:** God is not merely outside of time but actively orchestrates and controls all "appointed times." Events, whether historical or prophetic, occur according to His precise schedule and purpose. This provides a foundational assurance of God's ultimate control over all circumstances.
2. **Purposeful Unfolding of History:** The emphasis on "appointed occasions" suggests that history is not random but moves towards a divinely predetermined end. Even periods of tribulation or delay are part of God's larger design.
3. **Prophetic Precision:** In Daniel, זְמָן is crucial for understanding the exactness of prophetic fulfillment. The "time, times, and half a time" in [[Daniel 7:25]] is a prime example, indicating a specific, limited duration of the anti-God power, ultimately leading to its overthrow and the establishment of God's eternal kingdom. This detail underscores the reliability and specificity of God's prophetic word.
4. **Assurance and Patience:** For believers facing trials or awaiting God's intervention, the concept of *zᵉmân* offers comfort. It implies that God's timing is perfect, and even if His plans seem delayed from a human perspective, they will unfold at His appointed moment. This encourages patient endurance and trust in His divine wisdom.
### Summary
The Aramaic word זְמָן (`{{H2166}}`) signifies an "appointed occasion," "season," or "time." Predominantly found in Daniel and Ezra, its usage consistently points to specific, designated periods within God's overarching plan. In Daniel, *zᵉmân* is particularly significant for delineating prophetic timelines, emphasizing God's precise control over historical and eschatological events, including periods of revelation, testing, and tribulation. Theologically, זְמָן underscores God's absolute sovereignty over all time, affirming that events unfold according to His perfect timing and purpose, bringing about His divine will with precision and certainty.
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