### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **chêlem**, represented by `{{H2493}}`, refers to a **dream**. It appears **22 times** across **18 unique verses**, with all occurrences found in the book of Daniel. In this context, a **dream** is not a simple thought during sleep but a significant, often prophetic, communication that demands an interpretation and can cause great distress [[Daniel 4:5]].
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H2493}}` is the central element in a conflict between King Nebuchadnezzar and his wise men. The king demands that his servants not only interpret his **dream** but first tell him the **dream** itself, a feat they declare impossible ([[Daniel 2:4]], [[Daniel 2:7]]). The term is frequently paired with "visions of his head upon his bed," highlighting the vivid and revelatory nature of the experience ([[Daniel 7:1]], [[Daniel 2:28]]). The contents of a **dream** are so weighty that they can cause a king's thoughts to trouble him and leave Daniel himself "astonied for one hour" [[Daniel 4:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand on the concept of dreams as divine messages:
* `{{H6591}}` **pᵉshar** (an interpretation): This word is intrinsically linked to **chêlem**, as a **dream** is incomplete without its **interpretation**. The two are presented as a single package of revelation that must be shown [[Daniel 2:6]].
* `{{H2376}}` **chêzêv** (a sight; look, vision): This term is often used with **chêlem** to describe the full experience of divine communication during sleep, such as "a **dream** and **visions** of his head" [[Daniel 7:1]].
* `{{H7328}}` **râz** (a mystery; secret): A **dream** in Daniel is treated as a **secret** which no human wisdom can penetrate. King Nebuchadnezzar acknowledges that only God is a "revealer of **secrets**" [[Daniel 2:47]].
* `{{H2324}}` **chăvâʼ** (to show; shew): This verb is repeatedly used by the Chaldeans who promise to **shew** the interpretation if only the king will tell them the dream [[Daniel 2:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2493}}` is immense, as it serves as a vehicle for demonstrating God's sovereignty.
* **Divine Revelation:** The **dream** is the method God uses to make known future events to pagan kings, showing that His knowledge is absolute ([[Daniel 2:28]], [[Daniel 2:45]]).
* **Test of Power:** The king's challenge to his wise men—to state the **dream** before interpreting it—becomes a test that separates human wisdom from God's power. Failure to make known the **dream** results in a death decree [[Daniel 2:5]].
* **God's Authority:** The sureness of the **dream** and its interpretation confirms God's ultimate control over history and kingdoms. As Daniel states, "the **dream** is certain, and the interpretation thereof sure" [[Daniel 2:45]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2493}}` is far more than a simple word for a dream. Within the book of Daniel, it functions as a divinely-sent mystery that serves as a pivotal plot device. It illustrates the impotence of worldly wisdom in the face of divine revelation and establishes the God of Israel as the sole source of true knowledge and power over the future.
TRV