(Aramaic) corresponding to כִּסֵּא; a throne; throne.
Transliteration:korçêʼ
Pronunciation:kor-say'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word `{{H3764}}` (כׇּרְסֵא, *korçêʼ*) directly corresponds to the Hebrew term `{{H3678}}` (כִּסֵּא, *kissēʼ*). Its singular and consistent base definition is "throne." While literally referring to a royal seat, its semantic range extends beyond a mere piece of furniture to embody the authority, power, and sovereignty inherent in the one seated upon it. It is a potent symbol of dominion, rule, and the right to govern or judge.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{H3764}}` appears exclusively in the Aramaic sections of the Old Testament, specifically within the books of Ezra and Daniel.
* In [[Ezra 4:17]], the word is used in a letter from King Artaxerxes, referring to his own "throne." The context is a royal decree concerning the cessation of temple rebuilding, underscoring the absolute authority and power vested in the Persian monarch to issue such commands. The throne here is the emblem of imperial might.
* In [[Daniel 5:20]], `{{H3764}}` describes the "throne" (or royal dominion) of King Nebuchadnezzar, which was removed from him due to his pride. This passage vividly illustrates the transient nature of even the most powerful earthly rule when it defies divine will. The throne symbolizes the essence of royal power, which God can grant or remove at His discretion.
* The most significant occurrence is found in [[Daniel 7:9]]. Here, in an apocalyptic vision, "thrones" (כׇּרְסְוָן, plural) are set up for the "Ancient of Days." This depiction immediately precedes a scene of divine judgment and the establishment of an eternal kingdom. The plural "thrones" might signify the vastness of the heavenly court or the numerous seats of authority in the divine realm. Crucially, these are not earthly thrones but the seats of ultimate divine sovereignty, justice, and eternal rule, contrasting sharply with the temporary human thrones mentioned elsewhere.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct linguistic relation is to the Hebrew `{{H3678}}` (כִּסֵּא, *kissēʼ*), which also means "throne" and carries a similar semantic weight in the Hebrew Bible, often referring to God's heavenly throne (e.g., [[Psalm 103:19]], [[Isaiah 6:1]]) or the thrones of Israelite kings (e.g., [[1 Kings 2:12]]).
Conceptually, `{{H3764}}` is deeply intertwined with:
* **Kingship and Dominion:** The very essence of royal rule, whether human or divine. Related Aramaic terms include `{{H4438}}` (מַלְכוּת, *malkût*, "kingship" or "kingdom") and `{{H7980}}` (שָׁלַט, *shalat*, "to rule" or "have dominion").
* **Authority and Power:** The inherent right and ability to command, judge, and govern.
* **Justice and Judgment:** The throne as the seat from which decrees are issued and justice is administered.
* **Sovereignty:** The supreme and ultimate power, particularly in relation to God's rule over creation and history.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H3764}}` is profoundly revealed through its varied contexts. When applied to earthly kings (Ezra, Daniel 5), it underscores their temporal power, which is ultimately subordinate to and dependent upon divine will. The dramatic fall of Nebuchadnezzar from his korçêʼ serves as a powerful theological statement about the limits of human authority and the consequences of pride against God.
However, the most transcendent theological import of `{{H3764}}` emerges from [[Daniel 7:9]]. Here, the "thrones" are prepared for the "Ancient of Days," signifying God's eternal, unchallengeable, and absolute authority as the supreme judge and ruler of the cosmos. This vision portrays God's ultimate sovereignty over all nations, history, and individual destinies. The setting of the thrones implies a formal, righteous act of divine judgment and the establishment of an eternal kingdom that will not pass away. This vision thus provides a foundational understanding of divine justice and eschatological hope, pointing towards the ultimate triumph of God's righteous rule through the Messiah.
### Summary
The Aramaic word `{{H3764}}` (*korçêʼ*) consistently denotes a "throne," serving as the direct linguistic counterpart to the Hebrew `{{H3678}}` (*kissēʼ*). While initially referencing the seats of earthly monarchs in Ezra and Daniel, symbolizing their temporal power and authority (e.g., [[Ezra 4:17]], [[Daniel 5:20]]), its most profound theological resonance is found in the apocalyptic vision of [[Daniel 7:9]]. There, "thrones" are prepared for the "Ancient of Days," powerfully depicting God's ultimate, eternal, and unchallengeable sovereignty, His role as the supreme judge, and the foundation of His everlasting kingdom. Thus, `{{H3764}}` encapsulates both the transient nature of human dominion and the enduring, absolute authority of the Divine, culminating in the promise of God's righteous and eternal rule.
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