### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **chêyvâʼ**, represented by `{{H2423}}`, is the primary term for an **animal** or **beast**. It appears 20 times across 19 unique verses, with all occurrences found in the book of Daniel. Its usage ranges from describing literal creatures of the field to powerful, symbolic figures in prophetic visions.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H2423}}` is used in several key contexts. It is central to Daniel's vision of four great **beasts** that come up from the sea, each representing a kingdom [[Daniel 7:3]]. The fourth **beast** is particularly notable, described as "dreadful and terrible, and strong exceedingly" [[Daniel 7:7]]. The term is also used to illustrate divine judgment, as seen when Nebuchadnezzar is driven from men to live with the **beasts** of the field [[Daniel 4:25]], and his own heart is made like that of a **beast** [[Daniel 4:16]]. In a more general sense, it refers to the animals that dwell in the wild and are under man's dominion [[Daniel 2:38]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the characteristics and identity of these beasts:
* `{{H1678}}` **dôb** (bear): This term specifies the form of the second great **beast** seen in Daniel's vision, which was "like to a **bear**" and was commanded to devour much flesh [[Daniel 7:5]].
* `{{H1763}}` **dᵉchal** (dreadful): This quality is repeatedly ascribed to the fourth **beast**, emphasizing its terrifying nature and power to make others fear ([[Daniel 7:7]], [[Daniel 7:19]]).
* `{{H399}}` **ʼăkal** (devour): This verb describes the primary action of the prophetic **beasts**, highlighting their destructive capacity to **devour** and break in pieces, consuming entire kingdoms [[Daniel 7:23]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2423}}` is significant, particularly within eschatology. It is used to convey several key ideas:
* **Symbol of Worldly Kingdoms:** The great **beasts** are explicitly interpreted as four kings and their corresponding kingdoms that arise on the earth, defined by their power and aggression ([[Daniel 7:17]], [[Daniel 7:23]]).
* **Instrument of Divine Judgment:** King Nebuchadnezzar is humbled when his heart is made like the **beasts**, and his dwelling is with the wild asses until he recognizes the sovereignty of the most high God [[Daniel 5:21]].
* **Finite Earthly Power:** The narrative culminates in the judgment of these powers, with the fourth **beast** being slain and its body destroyed, and the dominion of the other **beasts** being taken away, demonstrating the ultimate authority of God [[Daniel 7:11-12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2423}}` is far more than a simple zoological term. It is a pivotal word in the prophecies of Daniel, serving as a potent symbol for earthly, anti-divine empires. Through the imagery of the **beast**, scripture contrasts the brutal, self-aggrandizing nature of worldly kingdoms with the ultimate and everlasting dominion of God.
TRV