(Aramaic) from a root corresponding to כָּזַב; false; lying.
Transliteration:kᵉdab
Pronunciation:ked-ab'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic term כְּדַב (kᵉdab, `{{H3538}}`) carries the core meaning of "false" or "lying." Its etymological root is explicitly linked to the Hebrew verb כָּזַב (kāzav, `{{H3576}}`), which signifies "to lie, deceive, disappoint, or fail." This connection establishes a clear semantic range for *kᵉdab* encompassing concepts of untruthfulness, deception, and unreliability. It describes that which deviates from truth, whether intentionally misleading or inherently unsound. As an Aramaic word, its usage is confined to the Aramaic portions of the Old Testament, specifically the Book of Daniel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term כְּדַב (kᵉdab, `{{H3538}}`) appears only once in the biblical text, found in [[Daniel 2:9]]. In this pivotal passage, King Nebuchadnezzar, exasperated by his wise men's inability to reveal his forgotten dream and its interpretation, accuses them, stating: "But if ye will not make known unto me the dream, there is but one decree for you: for ye have prepared lying and corrupt words (מִלִּין כְּדַב וּמְחַבְּלִין) to speak before me, till the time be changed."
The king's accusation highlights his profound distrust and suspicion. The phrase "lying and corrupt words" (מִלִּין כְּדַב וּמְחַבְּלִין) is highly condemnatory. *Kᵉdab* here denotes words that are fundamentally untrue, deceitful, and calculated to mislead or stall for time. The accompanying term *u'mᵉḥabbᵉlîn* (corrupt, destructive, ruinous) intensifies the negative imputation, suggesting that these false words are not merely inaccurate but are also harmful and designed to undermine the king's authority and his search for truth. This single, forceful occurrence underscores the severe consequences of perceived falsehood in a royal court and the king's demand for genuine revelation.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the Hebrew root כָּזַב (kāzav, `{{H3576}}`), from which *kᵉdab* is derived. *Kāzav* is used broadly in the Hebrew Bible to describe:
* **Deception/Lying:** As in false prophets ([[Ezekiel 13:19]]) or deceitful actions ([[Job 6:15]]).
* **Failure/Disappointment:** Referring to sources that do not yield what is expected, like a failing spring ([[Isaiah 58:11]]).
This strong etymological link means that the theological weight and negative connotations associated with lying in Hebrew thought are fully extended to *kᵉdab*.
Other related concepts include:
* **Truth (אֱמֶת, *emet*, `{{H571}}`):** As the antithesis of *kᵉdab*, *emet* signifies firmness, reliability, and faithfulness. The presence of *kᵉdab* implies the absence of *emet*.
* **Falsehood/Deceit (שֶׁקֶר, *sheqer*, `{{H8267}}`):** A common Hebrew term for various forms of deception, often used for false testimony, idolatry, or deceptive practices. While *kᵉdab* specifically emphasizes the "lying" nature of words, *sheqer* covers a broader spectrum of untruth.
* **Integrity and Trustworthiness:** The accusation of *kᵉdab* directly challenges the integrity and trustworthiness of the wise men, highlighting the value placed on these virtues in the biblical narrative.
### Theological Significance
The singular yet potent use of כְּדַב (kᵉdab, `{{H3538}}`) carries significant theological weight, particularly when understood against the broader biblical backdrop of truth and falsehood:
* **God's Nature as Truth:** Fundamentally, God is truth. He is described as a God "who cannot lie" ([[Numbers 23:19]], [[Titus 1:2]]). Therefore, anything characterized as *kᵉdab* stands in direct opposition to the very nature and character of the divine. Falsehood is an affront to God's holiness and faithfulness.
* **Consequences of Falsehood:** The context in Daniel vividly illustrates the severe earthly consequences of being perceived as untruthful – in this case, the threat of execution. This reflects a pervasive biblical principle that lying and deception are anathema to God and lead to judgment and separation (e.g., [[Proverbs 6:16-19]], [[Revelation 21:8]]).
* **The Deceiver (Satan):** The Bible identifies Satan as "the father of lies" ([[John 8:44]]), the ultimate source of deception. Thus, *kᵉdab* aligns with the very essence of evil and the adversary's work in opposing God's truth and manipulating humanity.
* **Emphasis on Truthful Speech:** The condemnation of "lying words" (מִלִּין כְּדַב) underscores the biblical imperative for truthful and righteous speech. This is a recurring theme in the Law, Prophets, and Wisdom literature, emphasizing that honest communication is a cornerstone of covenant relationship with God and ethical human interaction ([[Ephesians 4:25]], [[Colossians 3:9]]).
### Summary
כְּדַב (kᵉdab, `{{H3538}}`) is an Aramaic term signifying "false" or "lying," directly rooted in the Hebrew *kāzav* (`{{H3576}}`). Its sole biblical appearance in [[Daniel 2:9]] powerfully conveys King Nebuchadnezzar's accusation that his wise men were employing "lying and corrupt words" to deceive him. This instance underscores the grave consequences of untruthfulness and the king's demand for genuine revelation. Theologically, *kᵉdab* stands in stark opposition to the nature of God, who is truth, aligning instead with the deceptive character of sin and the adversary. It highlights the biblical emphasis on truthful speech as a reflection of divine character and a foundational element of righteous living.
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