### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **zᵉmân**, represented by `{{H2166}}`, refers to an **appointed occasion, season, or time**. It appears 11 times across 11 unique verses, primarily in the books of Daniel and Ezra. The word consistently points not just to the general passage of time, but to specific, designated moments or periods, whether ordained by God, set by a king, or established by personal habit.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H2166}}` is used to mark distinct points in time. It can denote a specific historical moment, as when officials came to challenge the temple's reconstruction "At the same **time**" [[Ezra 5:3]]. It is also used for recurring, scheduled events, such as Daniel's practice of praying "three **times** a day" ([[Daniel 6:10]], [[Daniel 6:13]]). In a prophetic context, it signifies a decisive, appointed moment in God's plan, such as when the " **time** came that the saints possessed the kingdom" [[Daniel 7:22]] or when God prolonged the lives of the beasts "for a **season** and time" [[Daniel 7:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words provide a fuller understanding of how appointed times function in scripture:
* `{{H5732}}` **ʻiddân** (a set time; technically, a year; time): This word is often paired directly with `zᵉmân`. In [[Daniel 2:21]], God is the one who "changeth the **times** (ʻiddân) and the **seasons** (zᵉmân)," suggesting a distinction between general periods and specific appointed occasions within them.
* `{{H8133}}` **shᵉnâʼ** ({to alter}; alter, change, (be) diverse): This verb is used to describe the action taken upon appointed times. God has the sovereign power to **change** them [[Daniel 2:21]], while an arrogant ruler thinks he can **change** times and laws on his own authority [[Daniel 7:25]].
* `{{H1882}}` **dâth** ({a royal edict or statute}; decree, law): This word for law is linked with `zᵉmân` as a pillar of divine order. An antagonistic power's ambition is revealed in his plan to "change **times** and **laws**" [[Daniel 7:25]], showing that interfering with God's appointed times is equivalent to subverting His law.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2166}}` centers on the sovereignty of God over history and order.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The ability to "change the times and the seasons" is presented as a fundamental characteristic of God's power, demonstrating His control over the rise and fall of kings and the flow of history [[Daniel 2:21]].
* **Ordered Worship:** The word establishes a rhythm for personal faithfulness. Daniel's commitment to pray at set **times** [[Daniel 6:10]] illustrates a life structured around regular, appointed moments of devotion to God, even in defiance of human decrees.
* **Prophetic Fulfillment:** `zᵉmân` is crucial for understanding eschatology. It marks the appointed **time** for judgment and for the saints to receive the kingdom [[Daniel 7:22]], affirming that history is not random but moves toward a conclusion set by God.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2166}}` is far more than a simple word for time. It signifies divinely appointed moments and seasons that structure history, prophecy, and personal devotion. Through its use in Daniel and Ezra, **zᵉmân** illustrates the conflict between divine authority over time and rebellious attempts to usurp it. The word underscores a worldview where every season and occasion is ultimately under the control of a sovereign God.
TRV