(Aramaic) corresponding to חָלַף; to pass on (of time); pass.
Transliteration:chălaph
Pronunciation:khal-af'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word H2499 (חֲלַף, *chălaph*) fundamentally signifies "to pass on" or "to pass away," with a predominant focus on the progression or expiration of time. As indicated by its base definition, it corresponds directly to the Hebrew H2498 (חָלַף), which shares a similar semantic range encompassing change, succession, and passing. However, H2499 in its Aramaic biblical occurrences is more narrowly employed to describe temporal transitions, the cessation of a state, or the enduring nature of something that does *not* pass away. It conveys a sense of movement from one point to another, implying either the conclusion of a period or the continuous, unceasing existence of a reality.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Occurring exclusively in the Aramaic sections of the Book of Daniel, H2499 illuminates key prophetic and theological themes:
* **[[Daniel 2:9]]**: King Nebuchadnezzar warns his wise men, stating that if they fail to reveal his dream and its interpretation, "there is but one decree for you: for ye have prepared lying and corrupt words to speak before me, till the time be *changed* (or *pass away*)." Here, chălaph refers to the passing of a critical moment or the changing of a situation, implying that the king's patience is finite and a severe consequence will ensue if the period of grace expires.
* **[[Daniel 4:16]] (Aramaic 4:13)**: In the divine decree concerning Nebuchadnezzar's judgment, it is declared, "Let his heart be *changed* from man's, and let a beast's heart be given unto him; and let seven times *pass over* him." This usage clearly denotes the passing of a specific duration—seven "times" (likely years)—during which the king would endure his period of madness. It highlights the temporal nature of divine judgment and restoration.
* **[[Daniel 7:14]]**: Describing the everlasting kingdom granted to "one like the Son of Man," the text proclaims, "And there was given him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all people, nations, and languages, should serve him: his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not *pass away* (H2499), and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed." In this pivotal verse, chălaph is used in the negative ("shall not pass away"), powerfully asserting the eternal and immutable nature of the Messiah's reign, in stark contrast to the transient earthly kingdoms depicted earlier in the chapter.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **H2498 (חָלַף, *chālaph*):** This is the direct Hebrew cognate, meaning "to pass away, come on, change, sprout, succeed." While H2499 focuses on time's progression or cessation, H2498 carries a broader semantic range, including the idea of replacement (e.g., new growth replacing old, or one ruler succeeding another) and general change. The Aramaic H2499 can be seen as a specific application of this broader concept to temporal duration.
* **H5674 (עָבַר, *'ābar*):** A very common Hebrew word meaning "to pass over, pass through, cross." It often denotes movement, but can also refer to the passing of time or events. While H5674 is a general term for transition, H2499 specifically emphasizes the temporal aspect of passing or ceasing.
* **H5703 (עַד, *'ad*):** Meaning "forever, eternity, until." This word often stands in thematic opposition to H2499, as seen in [[Daniel 7:14]], where the kingdom that "shall not *pass away*" is also described as "everlasting" (H5703). This contrast underscores the permanence of God's divine order against the transience of human endeavors.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of H2499 in Daniel is profound, primarily serving to underscore the contrast between the ephemeral nature of human affairs and the eternal, unchangeable character of God's purposes and kingdom.
* **Divine Sovereignty Over Time and History:** The usage in [[Daniel 4:16]], where "seven times *pass over*" Nebuchadnezzar, illustrates God's absolute control over historical epochs and the destinies of rulers. Time itself, marked by its passing, is an instrument in the hand of the Almighty for the execution of His sovereign will, including judgment and restoration.
* **The Transience of Earthly Powers:** In [[Daniel 2:9]], the "passing away" of a situation or decree highlights the inherent instability and limited lifespan of human plans and kingdoms. This sets the stage for the revelation of a kingdom that is fundamentally different.
* **The Enduring Nature of God's Kingdom:** The most striking theological implication comes from [[Daniel 7:14]]. The declaration that the Son of Man's dominion "shall not *pass away*" is a cornerstone of biblical eschatology. It stands in stark contrast to the preceding descriptions of four successive earthly empires, each destined to rise and fall. This affirms the absolute permanence, invincibility, and eternal nature of God's reign established through His Messiah, offering hope and assurance that despite the tumultuous rise and fall of human powers, God's ultimate plan will prevail and endure forever.
### Summary
The Aramaic word H2499 (חֲלַף, *chălaph*) primarily denotes the concept of "passing away" or "passing on," with a strong emphasis on the progression or expiration of time. Found in the Aramaic portions of Daniel, its usage highlights the transient nature of earthly affairs and, conversely, the enduring permanence of God's kingdom. In contexts like [[Daniel 4:16]], it describes the passing of specific periods, demonstrating divine control over history. Most significantly, its negative application in [[Daniel 7:14]] — "His dominion will not *pass away*" — powerfully contrasts the temporary reigns of human empires with the eternal and unshakeable reign of the Son of Man, underscoring a core biblical truth about divine sovereignty and ultimate victory. While related to the broader Hebrew term `{{H2498}}`, H2499 specifically focuses on the temporal aspect of transition and permanence.
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