### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **ṭᵉphar**, represented by `{{H2953}}`, means **nail**, and can also refer to a hoof or a claw. This specific term appears only **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, both found in the book of Daniel, where it is used to describe physical transformations that are both literal and symbolic.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two uses of `{{H2953}}` illustrate distinct contexts of divine judgment and prophetic vision. In the first instance, it describes the physical degradation of King Nebuchadnezzar, who was driven from men and whose **nails** grew like birds' claws as a sign of his humiliation [[Daniel 4:33]]. The second occurrence is in Daniel's vision of the fourth beast, a terrifying and powerful kingdom whose **nails** of brass were part of its arsenal to devour and break its victims in pieces [[Daniel 7:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words provide a richer context for the meaning of **ṭᵉphar**:
* `{{H1655}}` **geshem** (body): This word is used for Nebuchadnezzar's **body**, which was wet with the dew of heaven, emphasizing the total physical nature of his transformation, of which the overgrown nails were a part [[Daniel 4:33]].
* `{{H2423}}` **chêyvâʼ** (beast): This is the term for the prophetic **beast** in Daniel's vision. The nails of `{{H2953}}` are a defining, fearsome feature of this entity [[Daniel 7:19]].
* `{{H1763}}` **dᵉchal** (dreadful): This describes the terrifying nature of the fourth beast. Its nails of brass contribute to it being exceedingly **dreadful** [[Daniel 7:19]].
* `{{H5174}}` **nᵉchâsh** (brass): The nails of the fourth beast are made of **brass**, a material signifying unnatural strength and destructive capacity [[Daniel 7:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2953}}` is seen in its powerful imagery within Daniel's prophecies.
* **Sign of Divine Judgment:** Nebuchadnezzar's transformation, including his overgrown **nails**, serves as a visible sign of God's judgment against human pride. It depicts the stripping of royal dignity and a reduction to a wild, animalistic state [[Daniel 4:33]].
* **Symbol of Destructive Might:** In the vision of the fourth beast, the **nails** are not signs of neglect but are weapons. Made of brass, they symbolize the ruthless and destructive power of a terrifying earthly kingdom that tears down and stamps out opposition [[Daniel 7:19]].
* **Loss of Humanity:** For Nebuchadnezzar, the growth of animal-like **nails** represents the loss of his human identity and reason as a consequence of exalting himself against God.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2953}}` is a rare but impactful word. While its literal meaning is simply **nail** or claw, its two appearances in Scripture carry significant weight. It is used to illustrate both the profound humiliation of a prideful king under God's judgment and the terrifying, destructive power of a prophetic beast, showing how a physical feature can symbolize major spiritual and political realities.
TRV