lemma יְצב missing vowel, corrected to יְצַב; xlit yᵉtsêb corrected to yᵉtsab; (Aramaic) corresponding to יָצַב; to be firm; hence, to speak surely; truth.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **yᵉtsab**, represented by `{{H3321}}`, conveys the concept of **truth**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Derived from a root meaning "to be firm," it signifies something that is spoken with certainty and is established as sure.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{H3321}}` is found in a moment of prophetic inquiry. In a vision, Daniel sees four great beasts, and he is particularly troubled by the fourth one. He states, "Then I would know the **truth** of the fourth beast, which was diverse from all the others, exceeding dreadful" [[Daniel 7:19]]. Here, Daniel is not asking for simple information but for the firm, reliable meaning behind a terrifying and powerful symbol that devoured, broke in pieces, and stamped the residue.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words from the same passage help clarify the context in which this **truth** is sought:
* `{{H8133}}` **shᵉnâʼ** (to alter; change, (be) diverse): This word describes the uniqueness of the fourth beast, highlighting why its specific **truth** was so crucial for Daniel to understand [[Daniel 7:19]].
* `{{H3493}}` **yattîyr** (exceeding): This emphasizes the immense and dreadful nature of the beast, intensifying Daniel's desire to know its certain meaning [[Daniel 7:19]].
* `{{H1855}}` **dᵉqaq** (to break to pieces): This word describes the destructive action of the beast. The desire for **truth** is a desire to understand the purpose behind such violent power [[Daniel 7:19]].
* `{{H399}}` **ʼăkal** (to devour): Used to describe the beast's actions, this word paints a picture of complete consumption, making the need for a firm explanation all the more urgent [[Daniel 7:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H3321}}` is centered on the nature of prophetic revelation.
* **Prophetic Certainty:** The word's use underscores the desire for a sure and steadfast interpretation of divine visions. Daniel seeks the established **truth** behind the frightening imagery, reflecting a belief that God's revelations have a firm, understandable meaning.
* **Truth Amidst Chaos:** The **truth** is sought in the context of a vision depicting a dreadful, destructive kingdom that is "diverse from all the others" [[Daniel 7:19]]. This positions divine **truth** as the stable reality against the backdrop of worldly chaos and terrifying power.
* **Firmness of Divine Word:** The root meaning "to be firm" implies that the **truth** Daniel seeks is not a matter of opinion but a fixed reality. It is an appeal for the solid, unchanging meaning of God's prophetic message.
### Summary
In summary, while **yᵉtsab** `{{H3321}}` appears only once, its context is profoundly significant. It represents far more than a simple fact; it is the firm, sure, and reliable **truth** of God's prophetic plan. Its singular appearance in Daniel's request highlights the human longing to understand the certainty of God's word, especially when confronted with visions of overwhelming and destructive earthly powers.
TRV