### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **ʼîylân**, represented by `{{H363}}`, means **tree**. It appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible, exclusively within the book of Daniel. It serves as a powerful symbol for a mighty kingdom in a prophetic dream.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, all occurrences of `{{H363}}` are found in the vision of King Nebuchadnezzar. The **tree** is described as immense, growing strong with its height reaching unto heaven and visible to all the earth ([[Daniel 4:11]], [[Daniel 4:20]]). A divine decree is issued by a watcher from heaven to "Hew down the **tree**" and destroy it ([[Daniel 4:14]], [[Daniel 4:23]]). However, a crucial command is given to leave the stump of its roots in the earth, signifying that the destruction would not be absolute [[Daniel 4:26]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are used to describe the symbolic **tree** and the actions taken upon it:
* `{{H1414}}` **gᵉdad** (hew down): This verb describes the primary action of judgment against the great **tree**, as commanded by the watcher from heaven ([[Daniel 4:14]], [[Daniel 4:23]]).
* `{{H6056}}` **ʻănaph** (bough, branch): The command concerning the symbolic **tree** includes instructions to "cut off his **branches**" [[Daniel 4:14]].
* `{{H6136}}` **ʻiqqar** (stump): This word refers to the remaining stock of the **tree**, which is left in the earth and bound with a band of iron and brass [[Daniel 4:23]]. It is the basis for the kingdom's future restoration [[Daniel 4:26]].
* `{{H8330}}` **shôresh** (root): The part of the **tree** to be preserved, as in the command to leave the stump of the tree **roots**, representing a remnant of hope [[Daniel 4:26]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H363}}` is entirely contained within this single vision:
* **Symbol of a Mighty Kingdom:** The **tree** grew strong and its height reached to heaven [[Daniel 4:11]], providing shelter for beasts and fowls [[Daniel 4:14]], representing the vastness of a powerful dominion.
* **Divine Sovereignty and Judgment:** The command to hew down the **tree** comes from a "watcher and an holy one" `{{H5894}}` coming down from heaven `{{H8065}}`, illustrating that earthly power is subject to divine authority and judgment [[Daniel 4:23]].
* **Preservation and Restoration:** The specific instruction to "leave the stump of the tree roots" [[Daniel 4:26]] is directly linked to the promise that the kingdom will be restored once it is known "that the heavens do rule" [[Daniel 4:26]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H363}}` is more than a literal **tree**; it is a central metaphor in a key prophetic narrative. Its usage in Daniel 4 illustrates the rise and fall of a great kingdom under the sovereign watch of heaven. The imagery of the great **tree** being hewn down yet having its stump preserved powerfully conveys themes of divine judgment on pride and the possibility of restoration through humility and the recognition of God's ultimate rule.
TRV