The Aramaic word ʼachar, represented by H311, is a term of sequence corresponding to its Hebrew counterpart. Its core definition is after or (here-) after. It appears only 3 times across 3 unique verses, exclusively within the prophetic book of Daniel, where it marks events that follow in a specific, divinely revealed order.
In its biblical usage, H311 consistently points to the future from a given point in time. It is a key component of the phrase used to assure King Nebuchadnezzar that God has revealed what will "come to pass hereafter" (Daniel 2:29, Daniel 2:45). This context frames the word within the realm of divine revelation and foreknowledge. The word is also used to establish a clear chronological succession in prophecy, stating that a new, diverse king will rise "after" a group of ten other kings Daniel 7:24.
Several related Aramaic words provide context for the sequential and prophetic nature of H311:
- H1836 dên ((Aramaic) an orthographical variation of דֵּךְ; this; (afore-) time, [phrase] after this manner, here (-after), one...another, such, there(-fore), these, this (matter), [phrase] thus, where(-fore), which.): This word combines with H311 to form the specific phrase "hereafter" (literally, "after this"), grounding the future prediction in the present revelation given to the king Daniel 2:45.
- H321 ʼochŏrân ((Aramaic) from אַחַר; the same as אׇחֳרִי; other; (an-) other.): This term specifies the subject that follows in sequence. In Daniel 7:24, it is the "another" king who will rise up "after" H311 the previous ones.
- H6966 qûwm ((Aramaic) corresponding to קוּם; {to rise (in various applications, literal, figurative, intensive and causative)}; appoint, establish, make, raise up self, (a-) rise (up), (make to) stand, set (up).): This verb gives action to the sequence. It describes how kings will "arise" Daniel 7:24 and how God will "set up" a kingdom that stands forever Daniel 2:44.
The prophetic significance of H311 is tied to the sovereignty of God over history.
- Prophetic Chronology: The word is essential for outlining the order of future events. Its use in Daniel 7:24 establishes a clear succession of world powers, indicating that history unfolds according to a divine timeline.
- Divine Revelation: Its use in the phrase "hereafter" emphasizes that knowledge of the future originates with God. God is the one who "maketh known to the king what shall come to pass hereafter" Daniel 2:29.
- Certainty of Fulfillment: By marking what comes "after," the term underscores the reliability of prophecy. The events of the "hereafter" are not speculative but are presented as "certain" and "sure" because they are revealed by God Daniel 2:45.
In summary, H311 is a concise but significant Aramaic word that functions as a cornerstone for understanding prophetic sequence in the book of Daniel. Though rare, its meaning of "after" or "hereafter" is critical for conveying the chronological unfolding of God's revealed plan, the certainty of future events, and His ultimate authority over the rise and fall of earthly kingdoms.
TRV