### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **zᵉraʻ**, represented by `{{H2234}}`, is the Aramaic correspondent to the Hebrew word for **seed** or **posterity**. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 verse** in the entire biblical text, making its single usage highly specific and significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H2234}}` is in the prophetic context of Daniel's interpretation of Nebuchadnezzar's dream. In this vision, it is used to describe the fragility of a future kingdom, stating, "they shall mingle themselves with the **seed** of men: but they shall not cleave one to another" [[Daniel 2:43]]. Here, "seed of men" refers to human posterity or lineage, and the attempt to mix with it is depicted as a failed effort to create a strong, unified entity.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words in the book of Daniel provide context for its meaning:
* `{{H6151}}` **ʻărab** (to commingle; mingle (self), mix): This verb is used directly alongside `{{H2234}}` to describe the action of mixing. The prophecy notes that just as iron is not **mixed** with clay, the mingling with the seed of men will fail [[Daniel 2:43]].
* `{{H606}}` **ʼĕnâsh** (a man; man, [phrase] whosoever): This word for "man" or "mankind" is joined with `{{H2234}}` to form the phrase "seed of **men**" [[Daniel 2:43]]. It is used throughout Daniel to refer to humanity, such as in the vision of "one like the Son of **man**" [[Daniel 7:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2234}}` is derived entirely from its singular, prophetic context in Daniel 2.
* **Human Frailty:** The term is central to illustrating the inherent weakness of human attempts to build lasting power through alliances or intermingling. The "seed of men" represents a human foundation that, unlike a divine one, cannot create true and permanent unity.
* **Prophetic Symbolism:** As part of a larger symbolic vision, the "seed of men" functions as a metaphor for human posterity. The prophecy uses this concept to explain why the final human kingdom in the vision will be divided and brittle.
* **Failure of Unification:** The verse explicitly states that the mingling will fail. This underscores a key theological theme in Daniel: human political endeavors, even those attempting to unify through lineage ("seed"), are ultimately unstable and destined to fall apart.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2234}}` is a precise Aramaic term whose meaning is tied exclusively to its context in Daniel's prophecy. While its definition is straightforward—**seed** or **posterity**—its importance comes from its role in illustrating the ultimate failure of human kingdoms to achieve lasting unity. It demonstrates how even a single-use word can be pivotal in conveying a profound prophetic message about the weakness of human endeavors compared to divine power.
TRV