(Aramaic) corresponding to כֹּה; {properly, like this, i.e. by implication, (of manner) thus (or so); also (of place) here (or hither); or (of time) now}; hitherto.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **kâh**, represented by `{{H3542}}`, is an adverbial term used to denote a specific point in manner, place, or time. Its meaning corresponds to "like this," "thus," "here," or "now," with a primary implication of "hitherto." It is an exceedingly rare word, appearing just **1 time** in a single verse in the entire Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H3542}}` is in [[Daniel 7:28]], where it serves as a concluding marker for a monumental vision. The prophet states, "**Hitherto** is the end of the matter." This phrase signifies that the revelation he received had concluded at that point. The word's usage immediately precedes Daniel's description of his own reaction to the vision, noting that his "cogitations much troubled" him and his "countenance changed." The placement of `{{H3542}}` thus divides the divine communication from the prophet's personal, internal response to it.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words from its context in [[Daniel 7:28]] help clarify its function:
* `{{H5705}}` **ʻad** (as far as, until): This word is used in conjunction with `{{H3542}}` to form the phrase "**Hitherto**," emphasizing a limit or boundary in time. It is also used to describe the eternal nature of God's dominion, which lasts "even unto the end" [[Daniel 6:26]].
* `{{H5491}}` **çôwph** (end): The verse explicitly states that this is the "**end**" of the matter. This word signifies a termination and appears elsewhere in Daniel to mark the limit of a king's dominion [[Daniel 4:22]] or the ultimate destruction of a worldly power [[Daniel 7:26]].
* `{{H4406}}` **millâh** (word, matter, thing): This defines what has come to an end—the "**matter**" or "discourse" of the vision. It refers to a specific subject or command, such as the king's "**word**" [[Daniel 3:28]] or the prophetic "**matters**" Daniel was told [[Daniel 7:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H3542}}` is derived entirely from its function as a narrative and temporal boundary.
* **Conclusion of Revelation:** The word's primary role is to signal the formal end of a specific divine communication. The statement in [[Daniel 7:28]] marks the close of the vision, creating a clear endpoint for the prophetic message itself.
* **The Prophet's Burden:** By marking the vision's conclusion, `{{H3542}}` shifts the focus to the profound and troubling effect the vision had on Daniel. His distress underscores the immense weight and seriousness of the "matter" that had just been revealed.
* **From Revelation to Contemplation:** The verse shows that after the message ended ("Hitherto"), Daniel's work of processing it began, as he "kept the matter in my heart" [[Daniel 7:28]]. This illustrates the transition from passively receiving God's word to actively retaining and grappling with its meaning.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3542}}` is a rare but precise Aramaic term whose single biblical use is pivotal. Occurring in [[Daniel 7:28]], it functions as a definitive marker indicating "up to this point," thereby concluding a major prophetic vision. While simple, the word serves to demarcate the boundary between divine revelation and human response, highlighting the profound impact that God's word had on the prophet who received it.
TRV