The Aramaic word yᵉqêdâʼ, represented by H3346, means burning or a conflagration. This specific term is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 time in a single verse in the entire biblical record. Its sole usage provides a powerful and specific image of ultimate destruction.
The single appearance of H3346 is found in a dramatic prophetic vision within the book of Daniel. The prophet beholds a beast, representing a defiant power, which is slain because of the "great words which the horn spake." Following its death, its body is destroyed and "given to the burning flame" Daniel 7:11. In this context, the word signifies a complete and final annihilation by fire as an act of divine judgment.
Several related Aramaic words from the surrounding text illuminate the scene of judgment:
- H785 ʼêsh (flame): This word, meaning "fire (literally or figuratively)," appears alongside H3346 to form the phrase "burning flame," intensifying the imagery of destruction Daniel 7:11.
- H6992 qᵉṭal (slay): This term for killing is used to describe the first step in the beast's downfall, as Daniel beholds until the beast was slain Daniel 7:11. The burning follows this event.
- H7 ʼăbad (destroy): Meaning to perish or be destroyed, this word describes the state of the beast's body before it is cast into the fire, emphasizing the totality of its end Daniel 7:11.
- H2423 chêyvâʼ (beast): This word for "an animal" is used throughout the vision to refer to worldly kingdoms or powers. It is this beast that is ultimately given to the burning Daniel 7:11.
The theological weight of H3346 is concentrated in its singular, potent application. It underscores several key themes of divine judgment:
- Irreversible Destruction: The use of "burning" to describe the beast's fate illustrates a final, absolute, and irreversible judgment from which there is no return. The beast is slain, its body is destroyed, and it is finally given to the burning flame Daniel 7:11.
- Judgment on Arrogant Speech: The catalyst for this fiery destruction is explicitly stated to be the "voice of the great words which the horn spake" Daniel 7:11. This connects the severe judgment of the burning directly to blasphemous pride and defiance against the "most High" Daniel 7:25.
- The End of Defiant Powers: The beast, representing a great earthly power Daniel 7:17, meets its end in the burning. This serves as a powerful symbol of the ultimate fate of all kingdoms and authorities that set themselves against divine rule.
In summary, H3346 is a highly specific term whose sole appearance in scripture carries immense significance. Though used only once, yᵉqêdâʼ provides a vivid and unforgettable image of divine judgment in Daniel's vision. It encapsulates the concepts of finality, the consequence of arrogant defiance, and the ultimate destruction of powers hostile to God, culminating in their complete eradication in a "burning flame."
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