(Aramaic) corresponding to צוּר; a rock or hill; mountain.
Transliteration:ṭûwr
Pronunciation:toor
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic term ṭûwr (`{{H2906}}`) primarily denotes a "mountain," "rock," or "hill." Its base definition explicitly links it to the Hebrew צוּר (ṣûr, `{{H6697}}`), which carries a similar semantic range of "rock," "cliff," or "crag." This connection is crucial, as צוּר often functions metaphorically in Hebrew scripture to describe God as a steadfast refuge or source of strength. While ṭûwr itself appears in the Aramaic portions of the Bible, its meaning encompasses a range from a prominent, isolated rock formation to an expansive mountain range, emphasizing elevation, permanence, and often ruggedness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ṭûwr (`{{H2906}}`) appears exclusively in the book of Daniel, specifically within the Aramaic sections, and is central to the interpretation of Nebuchadnezzar's dream in chapter 2.
* In [[Daniel 2:35]], following the shattering of the great statue (representing successive earthly kingdoms) by a stone cut "without human hands," this stone is depicted as growing to become a "great mountain" (ṭûwr) that fills the whole earth.
* [[Daniel 2:45]] reiterates this imagery, explicitly stating that the stone cut from the mountain (ṭûwr) without human hands represents God's kingdom.
In this context, ṭûwr is not merely a topographical feature but a profound symbol. The transformation of the small stone into a vast mountain signifies the growth, expansion, and ultimate universal dominion of God's kingdom, which will supersede and outlast all human empires. The "mountain" here embodies stability, immensity, and eternal presence.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct linguistic and conceptual relative to ṭûwr (`{{H2906}}`) is its Hebrew counterpart, צוּר (ṣûr, `{{H6697}}`), which is frequently used to describe God as a "Rock" – a metaphor for His unchangeable nature, faithfulness, and the security He provides to His people (e.g., [[Deuteronomy 32:4]], [[Psalm 18:2]]).
Other related Hebrew terms for elevated landforms include:
* הַר (har, `{{H2022}}`): The most common Hebrew word for "mountain" or "hill," often associated with divine revelation (e.g., Mount Sinai), worship, or significant historical events.
* גִּבְעָה (giv'ah, `{{H1389}}`): "Hill," typically smaller than a mountain.
The concept of a "mountain" in biblical thought is often linked to:
* **Stability and Permanence:** Mountains endure through time, symbolizing God's eternal nature and the enduring quality of His promises and kingdom.
* **Divine Presence and Revelation:** Many pivotal encounters between God and humanity occur on mountains.
* **Kingdoms and Empires:** Mountains can represent powerful nations or the seat of authority.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ṭûwr (`{{H2906}}`) is overwhelmingly concentrated in its symbolic use in Daniel 2. Here, the "mountain" represents the kingdom of God, imbued with several critical theological attributes:
* **Divine Origin and Agency:** The stone that becomes the mountain is cut "without human hands," emphasizing that God's kingdom is not of human design or power but is supernaturally established by divine will. This contrasts sharply with the humanly constructed, transient empires represented by the statue.
* **Universal Dominion:** The mountain "fills the whole earth," signifying the ultimate, comprehensive, and global reign of God's kingdom. It will encompass all peoples and places, leaving no room for rival authorities.
* **Eternal and Indestructible Nature:** Unlike the successive earthly kingdoms that are shattered and swept away, the mountain-kingdom "will never be destroyed, nor will it be left to another people. It will crush all those kingdoms and bring them to an end, but it will itself endure forever" [[Daniel 2:44]]. This highlights the everlasting sovereignty of God.
* **Triumph over Earthly Powers:** The imagery asserts God's ultimate victory over all human political and military power, demonstrating His supreme authority in history.
The ṭûwr thus becomes a powerful eschatological symbol, pointing to the consummation of God's redemptive plan and the establishment of His eternal, righteous rule.
### Summary
The Aramaic word ṭûwr (`{{H2906}}`), meaning "mountain" or "rock," holds profound theological weight primarily through its usage in Daniel 2. There, it serves as the ultimate symbol of God's eternal kingdom. This kingdom, divinely established "without human hands," is depicted as a vast mountain that fills the entire earth, signifying its universal dominion, indestructible nature, and ultimate triumph over all transient earthly empires. Drawing conceptual parallels with the Hebrew צוּר (ṣûr, `{{H6697}}`), the "mountain" reinforces the biblical theme of God's unshakeable power, permanence, and sovereign control over history, culminating in the enduring reign of His divine kingdom.
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