xlit zeʻêyr corrected to zᵉʻêyr; from an unused root (akin (by permutation) to צָעַר), meaning to dwindle; small; little.
Transliteration:zᵉʻêyr
Pronunciation:zeh-ayr'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic term `{{H2191}}` (זְעֵיר, transliterated as *zᵉʻêyr*) carries the fundamental meaning of "small" or "little." Its etymological root is described as an unused root akin, through permutation, to `{{H6810}}` (צָעַר, *tsaʻar*), which means "to be small, insignificant, or young." This connection underscores the core semantic range of `{{H2191}}` as referring to something quantitatively or qualitatively diminished. It can denote physical size, numerical quantity, or even a state of insignificance or humility. The base definition's mention of "dwindle" further suggests a process of becoming smaller or less significant, implying an initial state that is either inherently small or one that has been reduced.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The primary, and arguably sole, significant occurrence of `{{H2191}}` in the biblical text is found in the Book of Daniel, specifically within its Aramaic sections.
In [[Daniel 7:8]], the word describes a crucial prophetic figure: "I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another *little* horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots: and, behold, in this horn were eyes like the eyes of man, and a mouth speaking great things."
The designation "little" (זְעֵיר) here is profoundly significant. It portrays a power that, in its initial manifestation, appears unassuming or of minor importance, arising "among" other, presumably larger or more established, powers (the ten horns). However, this initial smallness belies its true nature and future trajectory. This "little horn" quickly demonstrates immense power by uprooting three other horns and, more strikingly, exhibits human-like intellect ("eyes like the eyes of man") and a propensity for blasphemous arrogance ("a mouth speaking great things"). The contextual analysis reveals that `{{H2191}}` is used to highlight a deceptive appearance of insignificance, setting the stage for the dramatic and destructive actions of this eschatological entity.
### Related Words & Concepts
As noted in its etymology, `{{H2191}}` is closely related to the Hebrew root `{{H6810}}` (צָעַר, *tsaʻar*), which shares the core meaning of being small, insignificant, or young. This Hebrew counterpart is used in various contexts to denote physical smallness (e.g., [[Genesis 19:20]] concerning Zoar, a "little" city), numerical scarcity (e.g., [[Isaiah 10:19]] for a "small" number), or even a state of humility or lowliness (e.g., [[Psalm 119:141]] where the psalmist is "small" and despised).
Conceptually, `{{H2191}}` in Daniel 7 evokes themes of deceptive appearance, the rise of seemingly insignificant powers, and the contrast between initial humility and subsequent arrogance or tyranny. It can be linked to other biblical concepts of hiddenness or the unexpected emergence of significant forces, whether for good or evil.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H2191}}` is almost entirely concentrated in its prophetic usage in Daniel 7. The "little horn" represents a power that arises seemingly without great fanfare or initial might but grows to become a formidable, blasphemous force directly opposing God and His people. This illustrates several key theological points:
1. **Deceptive Nature of Evil:** Evil often does not begin with overt, overwhelming power but can emerge subtly, "little" in appearance, before revealing its full, destructive, and anti-God character. This serves as a warning against underestimating seemingly minor threats.
2. **Divine Sovereignty:** Despite the "little horn's" immense power and blasphemous claims (speaking "great things"), the narrative in Daniel 7 ultimately culminates in its judgment and destruction by the Ancient of Days and the Son of Man. This underscores God's ultimate sovereignty over all earthly powers, regardless of their origin or perceived strength. Even a "little" power that exalts itself against God is ultimately brought to nothing by divine authority.
3. **Eschatological Foresight:** The use of `{{H2191}}` in this context provides crucial foresight into the nature of end-time opposition to God, characterizing it as something that may begin small but will grow to audacious proportions before its inevitable defeat.
### Summary
`{{H2191}}` (זְעֵיר, *zᵉʻêyr*) is an Aramaic term signifying "small" or "little," rooted in a concept of diminishment akin to the Hebrew `{{H6810}}`. Its most prominent biblical occurrence is in [[Daniel 7:8]], where it describes the "little horn," a prophetic figure that initially appears insignificant but rises to great power and speaks blasphemous words against God. The theological weight of `{{H2191}}` is therefore deeply tied to this prophetic context, highlighting the deceptive nature of evil that can emerge from humble beginnings, and ultimately underscoring God's absolute sovereignty over all earthly powers, even those that seemingly rise from insignificance to challenge His divine authority.
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