### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **chăbal**, represented by `{{H2255}}`, corresponds to the Hebrew word for ruin and is used to mean **to ruin; destroy, hurt**. It appears a total of **6 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible, primarily in prophetic and historical accounts within the books of Daniel and Ezra.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H2255}}` is consistently used to describe acts of destruction or harm, often in the context of divine power and authority. A prominent theme is the indestructibility of God's kingdom, which "shall not be **destroyed**" [[Daniel 7:14]] and will stand forever, unlike earthly kingdoms ([[Daniel 2:44]], [[Daniel 6:26]]). The word is also used in a decree from a heavenly watcher to "**destroy**" the great tree in Nebuchadnezzar's vision, symbolizing a judgment upon the king [[Daniel 4:23]]. It can also mean physical harm, as when Daniel testifies that the lions have not "**hurt**" him in the den [[Daniel 6:22]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words appear alongside `{{H2255}}` to provide a fuller picture of destruction and divine power:
* `{{H1414}}` **gᵉdad** (to cut down; hew down): This word is used in direct parallel with `{{H2255}}` in the command to "**Hew** the tree down, and **destroy** it" [[Daniel 4:23]].
* `{{H1855}}` **dᵉqaq** (to crumble or (trans.) crush; break to pieces): This term describes the action of God's eternal kingdom, which will "**break in pieces** and consume all these kingdoms" [[Daniel 2:44]].
* `{{H4049}}` **mᵉgar** (to overthrow; destroy): Used in the decree concerning the temple, it warns that God will "**destroy** all kings and people" who try to alter or destroy the house of God [[Ezra 6:12]].
* `{{H5487}}` **çûwph** (to come to an end; consume, fulfill): This word describes how God's kingdom will "**consume**" all other kingdoms, appearing in the same verse as `{{H2255}}` to describe the finality of God's rule [[Daniel 2:44]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2255}}` is focused on the sovereignty and might of God.
* **Eternal Kingdom:** The word is repeatedly negated ("shall not be destroyed") to underscore the permanence of God's kingdom in contrast to the transient power of human empires ([[Daniel 2:44]], [[Daniel 7:14]]).
* **Divine Judgment:** It functions as a verb of divine judgment, whether against a prideful king [[Daniel 4:23]] or against those who would dare to harm God's holy temple [[Ezra 6:12]].
* **Supernatural Protection:** The word's usage in the story of Daniel in the lions' den demonstrates God's power to prevent destruction and preserve His faithful servants from physical harm [[Daniel 6:22]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2255}}` is a specific Aramaic term for destruction that carries significant theological implications. While its literal meaning is to ruin or hurt, its biblical usage primarily serves to contrast the vulnerability of earthly powers with the indestructible and eternal nature of God's kingdom and His power to execute judgment and provide protection.
TRV