### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **chay**, represented by `{{H2417}}`, means **alive** or **life**. It is an important term found 7 times in 7 unique verses, used to describe both God's eternal nature and the finite existence of mortals. Its application ranges from the declaration of God as "the **living** God" to a simple reference to a person's **life**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H2417}}` primarily appears in the book of Daniel to emphasize God's supreme and eternal power. King Darius, after Daniel's deliverance from the lions, decrees that all should fear the "**living** God" whose kingdom will not be destroyed [[Daniel 6:26]]. Similarly, after his sanity is restored, Nebuchadnezzar praises "him that **liveth** for ever" [[Daniel 4:34]]. The word is also used to refer to humanity, with the intent that "the **living** may know that the most High ruleth" [[Daniel 4:17]]. In Ezra, a request is made to pray for the **life** of the king and his sons, highlighting the dependence of mortal life on God [[Ezra 6:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and meaning of **chay**:
* `{{H426}}` **'ĕlâhh** (God): This word is frequently paired with `{{H2417}}` to form the title "**living** God," emphasizing God's active power and eternal nature in contrast to mortal kings or lifeless idols ([[Daniel 6:20]], [[Daniel 6:26]]).
* `{{H5957}}` **ʻâlam** (for ever): This term for remote or indefinite time is used to describe the one who "**liveth** for ever" [[Daniel 4:34]], directly connecting the concept of life in `{{H2417}}` with God's eternal existence.
* `{{H7985}}` **sholṭân** (dominion): The dominion of the "**living** God" is described as lasting to the end [[Daniel 6:26]], while the dominion of the beasts is taken away, even though their **lives** are prolonged for a season [[Daniel 7:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2417}}` is significant, particularly in contrasting divine and mortal existence.
* **The Everlasting God:** The term establishes God as eternally active and powerful. He is not merely a distant deity but the "**living** God" who is "stedfast for ever" [[Daniel 6:26]] and who "liveth for ever" [[Daniel 4:34]].
* **Divine Sovereignty:** God's status as "living" is the basis for His authority over all creation. It is His will that "the **living** may know that the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men" [[Daniel 4:17]], demonstrating that his life gives him power over all other lives.
* **The Fragility of Mortal Life:** In contrast to God, human life is presented as finite and dependent. People are called to pray for the **life** of the king [[Ezra 6:10]], and Daniel humbly states that his wisdom does not exceed that of "any **living**" [[Daniel 2:30]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2417}}` is a crucial Aramaic term that defines the fundamental difference between God and His creation. While it can refer to any state of being alive, its primary role in scripture is to elevate God as the eternally "**living** God." It frames Him as the ultimate source of power whose dominion is everlasting, standing in stark contrast to the temporary lives and authority of earthly rulers and kingdoms.
TRV