### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **yôwm**, represented by `{{H3118}}`, is the counterpart to the Hebrew word for **day**. It appears 16 times across 15 unique verses in the Bible and is used to signify a **day** or a general **time**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H3118}}` is used to define specific periods and prophetic timelines, primarily within the books of Daniel and Ezra. It marks out set durations, such as the thirty **days** of a royal decree forbidding prayer to anyone but the king ([[Daniel 6:7]], [[Daniel 6:12]]). It is also used to refer to historical eras, such as "the **days** of thy father" [[Daniel 5:11]] or "of old **time**" ([[Ezra 4:15]], [[Ezra 4:19]]). In a prophetic sense, it describes "the latter **days**" in which God reveals future events [[Daniel 2:28]]. The word also appears in the repeated phrase "day by day" to denote a continuous, daily provision for the temple [[Ezra 6:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words help define the concept of time in contrast or relation to `{{H3118}}`:
* `{{H2166}}` **zᵉmân**: (Aramaic) from זְמָן; the same as זְמָן; {an appointed occasion}; season, time. This word is used to describe an appointed moment, such as the three **times** a day Daniel prayed [[Daniel 6:10]].
* `{{H3916}}` **lêylᵉyâʼ**: (Aramaic) corresponding to לָאֵל; {Lael an Israelite}; night. This word stands in direct contrast to day, appearing in the description of Daniel’s vision "in the **night**" where he saw the Ancient of **days** [[Daniel 7:13]].
* `{{H5957}}` **ʻâlam**: (Aramaic) corresponding to עוֹלָם; remote time, i.e. the future or past indefinitely; often adverb, forever; for (n-)ever (lasting), old. It denotes eternal or indefinite time, contrasting with the specific period of "**days**," as when a kingdom set up in the "**days** of these kings" is said to stand "for **ever**" [[Daniel 2:44]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3118}}` is most prominent in the book of Daniel.
* **Divine Title:** It is famously used in the divine title "Ancient of **days**," which refers to God in his eternal majesty and judicial authority. This title appears in Daniel’s visions of the heavenly throne room ([[Daniel 7:9]], [[Daniel 7:13]], [[Daniel 7:22]]).
* **Prophetic Timelines:** The word structures prophetic revelation, marking the period "in the **days** of these kings" when God will establish an everlasting kingdom [[Daniel 2:44]] and revealing what will happen "in the latter **days**" [[Daniel 2:28]].
* **Daily Faithfulness:** It sets the rhythm for devotion and obedience. Daniel’s steadfast faith was demonstrated by his refusal to cease praying three times a **day** [[Daniel 6:10]], and God's sustaining provision for the temple was to be given "**day** by **day**" [[Ezra 6:9]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3118}}` functions as more than a simple measurement of time. While it denotes literal days and historical periods, its greater significance lies in its use within prophetic and theological contexts. From establishing the daily routine of a faithful servant to forming part of God’s eternal title as the "Ancient of days," the word **yôwm** is crucial for understanding time, authority, and divine revelation in scripture.
TRV