### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **chălaph**, represented by `{{H2499}}`, means to **pass**, specifically in the context of time passing. It appears 4 times across 4 unique verses in the Bible. Its usage is concentrated in a single narrative, marking a defined period of judgment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H2499}}` is exclusively used within the account of Nebuchadnezzar's humbling in the book of Daniel. It appears in the prophetic dream and its interpretation, consistently in the phrase "let seven times **pass** over him" ([[Daniel 4:16]], [[Daniel 4:23]]). This period of time is a divine judgment, set to continue until the king acknowledges that "the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men" ([[Daniel 4:25]], [[Daniel 4:32]]). The word marks the duration of this decreed consequence.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide the context for the time that must pass:
* `{{H8133}}` **shᵉnâʼ** ({to alter}; alter, change): This term is used to describe the fundamental transformation that must occur. The divine decree states, "Let his heart be **changed** from man's," initiating the period of time that must pass over him [[Daniel 4:16]].
* `{{H2957}}` **ṭᵉrad** (to expel; drive): This word describes the action taken against Nebuchadnezzar at the beginning of the appointed time. The prophecy states that "they shall **drive** thee from men" while the seven times pass [[Daniel 4:25]].
* `{{H7990}}` **shallîyṭ** (mighty;... a premier;... rule): This word defines the ultimate purpose of the decreed time. The period will pass until Nebuchadnezzar knows "that the most High **ruleth** in the kingdom of men" [[Daniel 4:32]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2499}}` is tied to its specific context in Daniel.
* **Sovereignty over Time:** The use of `{{H2499}}` underscores God's absolute authority. A specific measure of time ("seven times") is decreed to **pass**, demonstrating that time itself is a tool to fulfill divine purposes [[Daniel 4:16]].
* **Judgment and Humbling:** The passing of this time is not passive but is a defined period of judgment. It is the duration of Nebuchadnezzar's humbling, where his portion is "with the beasts of the field, till seven times **pass** over him" [[Daniel 4:23]].
* **Purposeful Revelation:** The time that **passes** has a specific end goal: revelation. The period concludes only when Nebuchadnezzar comes to "know that the most High ruleth" [[Daniel 4:25]], linking the passage of time directly to the acknowledgment of divine authority.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2499}}` **chălaph** is a highly specific term used to mark a divinely appointed duration of judgment. Though appearing only four times, its context within the book of Daniel is profound. It illustrates that the passage of time in Scripture is not arbitrary but can be a measured instrument for divine discipline and revelation, designed to continue until God's ultimate sovereignty is acknowledged.
TRV