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.
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.
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.
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.
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