### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **chăṭîy**, represented by `{{H2408}}`, is defined as an **offence** or **sin**. It is a rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its significance is therefore derived entirely from its singular, specific context. The word comes from an Aramaic root that corresponds to the Hebrew word for sin, חָטָא.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H2408}}` is in Daniel's counsel to a king. Daniel urges the monarch to "break off{H6562} thy **sins**" and replace them with righteous acts [[Daniel 4:27]]. In this passage, **sins** are presented as concrete actions that are in opposition to righteousness{H6665} and showing mercy{H2604} to the poor{H6033}. The counsel suggests that discontinuing these offenses may lead to "a lengthening{H754} of thy tranquillity{H7963}," linking the king's behavior directly to his future stability.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words found in its only biblical verse help to clarify the meaning of `{{H2408}}`:
* `{{H5758}}` **ʻivyâʼ** (perverseness; iniquity): This word is used in parallel with **sins**, highlighting the perverse and crooked nature of the actions being condemned [[Daniel 4:27]].
* `{{H6562}}` **pᵉraq** (to discontinue; break off): This verb describes the prescribed action toward **sins**, emphasizing that they are behaviors that can and should be decisively stopped.
* `{{H6665}}` **tsidqâh** (beneficence; righteousness): This is presented as the direct remedy for **sin**. To break off from sin is to turn toward acts of righteousness.
* `{{H2604}}` **chănan** (to favor or (causatively) to entreat; shew mercy, make supplication): The act of "shewing mercy" is given as a specific example of the righteousness that should replace **sin** [[Daniel 4:27]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2408}}` is focused entirely on its application in [[Daniel 4:27]], which illustrates several principles:
* **Active Repentance:** The command to "break off" **sins** frames repentance as a deliberate and decisive action rather than a passive state. Sin is a course of conduct to be abandoned.
* **Justice and Mercy:** The verse explicitly connects turning from **sin** and iniquity with the practice of righteousness and showing mercy to the poor, tying personal morality to social justice.
* **Moral Accountability:** The context implies a direct relationship between a leader's actions and the well-being of the realm. Turning from **sin** is presented as a potential means of securing continued peace and tranquillity.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H2408}}` is a narrowly used term, its single appearance offers a powerful and practical definition of **sin**. It is framed as an offence that can be actively discontinued. The context of Daniel's counsel to a king establishes that the antidote to **sin** is a tangible turn toward righteousness and mercy, demonstrating a clear connection between moral conduct and its consequences.
TRV