### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **lishshân**, represented by `{{H3961}}`, corresponds to the term for **language** or speech, and by extension, a nation identified by its language. It appears 7 times across 7 unique verses, exclusively within the book of Daniel, where it helps define the scope of empires and kingdoms.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H3961}}` is consistently part of the formulaic phrase "people, nations, and **languages**." This phrase is used in official decrees from powerful rulers like King Nebuchadnezzar and King Darius to address every subject in their vast, multicultural empires ([[Daniel 4:1]], [[Daniel 6:25]]). It defines the groups who were commanded by a herald to worship a golden image ([[Daniel 3:4]], [[Daniel 3:7]]), as well as those who trembled in fear before the king's absolute authority [[Daniel 5:19]]. The term is also used prophetically to describe the universal extent of the everlasting dominion given to one like the Son of man, whom all **languages** will serve [[Daniel 7:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words provide context for the use of `{{H3961}}`:
* `{{H5972}}` **ʻam** (people): Meaning a people or tribe, this word is consistently part of the trio "people, nations, and languages," establishing a comprehensive list of all humanity under a king's dominion [[Daniel 3:7]].
* `{{H524}}` **ʼummâh** (nation): This term for a community of persons appears alongside `{{H3961}}` to emphasize the inclusion of all ethnic and national groups in royal decrees and prophetic visions [[Daniel 7:14]].
* `{{H4430}}` **melek** (king): The **king** is the one who issues commands to the "people, nations, and languages," demonstrating the word's connection to imperial power and authority [[Daniel 6:25]].
* `{{H560}}` **ʼămar** (to say, speak, command): This verb is often linked to the decrees targeting every `{{H3961}}`. A herald is **commanded** to cry out to all languages [[Daniel 3:4]], and a decree is made against any **language** that would **speak** amiss against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego [[Daniel 3:29]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H3961}}` is tied to the scope of authority, both human and divine.
* **Scope of Earthly Empires:** The repeated use of "people, nations, and **languages**" underscores the universal claims of pagan kings. Their decrees are meant to be absolute, crossing all cultural and linguistic lines within their realm [[Daniel 4:1]].
* **Forced vs. True Worship:** This authority is first used to command idolatry, as all **languages** are ordered to worship the golden image [[Daniel 3:7]]. However, after God's miraculous deliverance, the same royal authority is used to decree that no **language** may speak against the true God [[Daniel 3:29]].
* **Universal Divine Kingdom:** The ultimate theological point is made in Daniel's vision, where the very phrase used by earthly emperors is applied to the kingdom of God. Dominion is given so that "all people, nations, and **languages**, should serve him," contrasting the temporary power of men with the everlasting and all-encompassing reign of God's chosen ruler [[Daniel 7:14]].
### Summary
In summary, **lishshân** `{{H3961}}` is more than just a word for "language." It operates within a fixed phrase that conveys total, universal authority. Its usage in Daniel masterfully contrasts the far-reaching but temporary power of earthly kings with the truly eternal and universal dominion of the kingdom of God, which will draw worshippers from every linguistic group on earth.
TRV