(Aramaic) corresponding to לֵבָב; {the heart (as the most interior organ);}; heart.
Transliteration:lᵉbab
Pronunciation:leb-ab'
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic term `{{H3825}}` (לְבַב, *lᵉbab*) serves as the direct equivalent to the more common Hebrew words for "heart," particularly `{{H3820}}` (לֵב, *lev*) and `{{H3824}}` (לֵבָב, *levav*). In its base definition, it refers to the heart as the most interior organ, but its semantic range extends far beyond the physical. Biblically, lᵉbab primarily denotes the innermost core of a person, encompassing the seat of intellect, will, emotion, and moral character. It is the central faculty where thoughts are conceived, decisions are made, feelings reside, and one's true disposition is formed and revealed. This holistic understanding of the "heart" is crucial for grasping its theological significance in the Aramaic portions of the Old Testament.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{H3825}}` appears exclusively in the Aramaic sections of the Old Testament, specifically in the books of Daniel and Ezra. Its usage consistently reinforces its meaning as the center of human cognitive, volitional, and emotional life.
* **Daniel 2:30**: Daniel states that the mystery was revealed to him not for his own wisdom, but "in order that the interpretation might be made known to the king, and that you might understand the thoughts of your heart." Here, lᵉbab signifies the source of internal thoughts and understanding, demonstrating its connection to intellectual faculty.
* **Daniel 4:16**: In the prophecy concerning Nebuchadnezzar, it is declared, "Let his heart be changed from that of a man, and let a beast's heart be given to him." This dramatic imagery illustrates lᵉbab as the very essence of human reason, dignity, and moral capacity. The change of heart signifies a profound loss of human identity and sanity.
* **Daniel 4:34**: Following his period of madness, Nebuchadnezzar proclaims, "my understanding returned to me." While lᵉbab is not explicitly used here, the restoration of "understanding" (often linked to the heart) implies the return of his human heart and mental faculties, reversing the curse of [[Daniel 4:16]].
* **Daniel 5:20**: Describing Nebuchadnezzar's downfall, it is said, "But when his heart was lifted up and his spirit was hardened so that he dealt proudly, he was deposed from his kingly throne and his glory was taken away from him." Here, lᵉbab is the seat of pride and arrogance, leading to divine judgment. This highlights the heart as the core of one's moral and spiritual disposition.
* **Daniel 5:21**: Echoing [[Daniel 4:16]], this verse states that Nebuchadnezzar's "heart was made like that of the beasts," further emphasizing the heart as the locus of human reason and the target of divine humbling.
* **Daniel 7:28**: Daniel concludes his vision, stating, "As for me, Daniel, my thoughts greatly troubled me, and my countenance changed, but I kept the matter in my heart." Lᵉbab here denotes the place where deep contemplation and internal distress are held, the inner sanctuary of personal reflection.
* **Ezra 7:10**: This pivotal verse states, "For Ezra had set his heart to study the Law of the Lord and to practice it, and to teach His statutes and ordinances in Israel." This usage powerfully demonstrates lᵉbab as the seat of resolute intention, dedication, and spiritual commitment. Ezra's heart was not merely inclined, but firmly set on a course of action rooted in devotion to God's word.
Across these contexts, lᵉbab consistently functions as the epicenter of one's being, whether in terms of intellectual capacity, moral disposition, or volitional resolve.
### Related Words & Concepts
The Aramaic `{{H3825}}` (לְבַב, *lᵉbab*) is intrinsically linked to its Hebrew counterparts, `{{H3820}}` (לֵב, *lev*) and `{{H3824}}` (לֵבָב, *levav*), which convey the same broad semantic range of the "heart" as the inner person. This connection underscores the continuity of theological concepts between the Hebrew and Aramaic portions of the Old Testament.
Other related concepts include:
* **Cognitive Faculties:** Words pertaining to understanding (`{{H998}}`, בִּינָה, *binah*) and knowledge (`{{H1847}}`, דַּעַת, *da'at*) are often associated with the heart, as it is the organ through which these functions are apprehended and processed.
* **Volitional Aspect:** The heart is closely tied to the will and spirit (`{{H7307}}`, רוּחַ, *ruach*), representing the seat of decision-making, resolve, and personal commitment.
* **Emotional and Spiritual Core:** The "soul" or "life" (`{{H5315}}`, נֶפֶשׁ, *nephesh*) is often used in parallel or in conjunction with the heart to denote the entire inner being, where emotions, desires, and spiritual inclinations reside.
* The broader biblical concept of the "inner man" or "inner being" in both Testaments finds a foundational expression in the understanding of lᵉbab.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H3825}}` (לְבַב, *lᵉbab*) lies in its portrayal of the heart as the central ground of human existence, where one's relationship with God is primarily forged or fractured.
* **Divine Sovereignty over the Heart:** The narrative of Nebuchadnezzar in Daniel profoundly illustrates God's sovereign power to humble and transform the human heart. His heart, lifted up in pride, was made like that of a beast, only to be restored when he acknowledged God's supremacy. This demonstrates that even the most powerful human will is subject to divine judgment and restoration, highlighting God's ultimate authority over the inner disposition of humanity.
* **The Heart as the Seat of Pride and Humility:** Nebuchadnezzar's example serves as a potent warning against the dangers of a proud heart ([[Daniel 5:20]]). Pride, originating in the heart, leads to a hardening of spirit and ultimately to downfall. Conversely, a humble heart, one that acknowledges God's rule, is receptive to divine truth and blessing.
* **Human Responsibility and Dedication:** Ezra's setting his heart to study and obey the Law ([[Ezra 7:10]]) exemplifies human volition and responsibility in spiritual matters. This act of intentional dedication underscores that the heart is not merely a passive recipient but an active participant in one's spiritual journey. True obedience and devotion stem from a heart committed to God's will.
* **Source of Wisdom and Understanding:** Daniel's ability to receive and interpret divine mysteries ([[Daniel 2:30]]) suggests that the heart is the locus for apprehending spiritual understanding and wisdom. This understanding is not merely intellectual but involves a deeper, intuitive grasp of divine truth, often granted by God.
### Summary
The Aramaic term `{{H3825}}` (לְבַב, *lᵉbab*) functions as the direct equivalent to the Hebrew "heart," signifying the innermost core of a person's being. Found exclusively in the books of Daniel and Ezra, its occurrences consistently portray the heart as the central seat of intellect, will, emotion, and moral character. It is the place where thoughts are formed, decisions are made, feelings reside, and one's true disposition towards God and others is revealed. The biblical narratives highlight lᵉbab as both the source of human pride and the object of divine transformation, emphasizing God's sovereign power to humble the haughty and grant understanding to the receptive. Ezra's dedication of his "heart" to the Law further underscores the volitional aspect of this crucial inner faculty, demonstrating human responsibility in spiritual pursuit. Thus, lᵉbab is far more than a physical organ; it is the spiritual and psychological nexus of human existence, profoundly engaged in one's relationship with the divine.
TRV