The Aramaic word chălâq, represented by H2508, refers to a part; portion. It is a specific term, appearing only 3 times across 3 unique verses. Its meaning revolves around an allotted share, whether in a context of divine judgment or geopolitical territory.
The word is used in two distinct contexts. In the book of Daniel, it describes the humbling fate of King Nebuchadnezzar. A heavenly decree states that his portion H2508 will be with the beasts of the field, where he will be wet with the dew of heaven until seven times pass over him (Daniel 4:15, Daniel 4:23). In Ezra, the term is used in a letter to the king, warning that if Jerusalem is rebuilt, he will have no H3809 portion H2508 in the region "on this side the river" Ezra 4:16, signifying a loss of territory and authority.
Several related Aramaic words provide context for the meaning of chălâq:
- H2423 chêyvâʼ (an animal; beast): This word is directly linked to Nebuchadnezzar's judgment, as his portion H2508 is to be "with the beasts" (Daniel 4:15, Daniel 4:23).
- H1251 bar (a field; field): This specifies the location of Nebuchadnezzar's humbling, as his portion is with the beasts "of the field" Daniel 4:23.
- H7149 qiryâʼ (a city): In Ezra, the rebuilding of "this city" Ezra 4:16 is the direct cause for the king losing his portion H2508 of the territory.
The concept of H2508 carries significant weight in its limited appearances:
- Divine Judgment: The word is used to describe a decreed punishment from heaven. Nebuchadnezzar's portion H2508 with the beasts is not an accident but a direct consequence of his pride, as declared by a watcher and a holy one Daniel 4:23.
- Loss of Sovereignty: In Ezra, having a portion H2508 signifies control and dominion over a territory. The warning is that rebuilding the city will lead to the king having "no portion" Ezra 4:16, a direct challenge to his rule.
- Assigned Fate: In both contexts, chălâq represents an allotted reality. For Nebuchadnezzar, it is a humbling fate to endure for seven times Daniel 4:23, while for the king in Ezra, it is a potential loss of a part of his kingdom.
In summary, H2508 chălâq defines an assigned share or part. Though rare, its usage powerfully illustrates concepts of divine judgment and earthly authority. It can describe the humbling fate assigned to a prideful king, whose portion H2508 is with the animals Daniel 4:15, or the tangible territory and influence a ruler stands to lose Ezra 4:16. The word thus encapsulates the idea of a decreed allotment, whether from God or through political events.
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