### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **ʼêb**, represented by `{{H4}}`, denotes a **green plant** or **fruit**. It appears 3 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible, indicating its specific but significant usage.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4}}` is exclusively found within the book of Daniel, specifically describing the majestic tree in King Nebuchadnezzar's dream. The verses consistently refer to the "fruit" of this tree ([[Daniel 4:14]], [[Daniel 4:12]], [[Daniel 4:21]]). This tree is characterized by its abundant fruit, which provides "meat for all" [[Daniel 4:12]]. The imagery includes the scattering of its fruit and leaves, and the departure of the "beasts" `{{H2423}}` from under it, signifying the tree's impending destruction [[Daniel 4:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words provide further context to `{{H4}}`:
* `{{H2423}}` **chêyvâʼ** (animal; beast): This term frequently appears alongside `{{H4}}`, particularly in the context of animals finding shelter or food under the tree's fruit and leaves ([[Daniel 4:12]], [[Daniel 4:14]], [[Daniel 4:21]]). It is also used more broadly to describe various creatures or even kingdoms represented as beasts [[Daniel 7:7]].
* `{{H4203}}` **mâzôwn** (food; meat): This word directly connects to the purpose of the tree's fruit, emphasizing its role in providing sustenance, as seen in the phrase "meat for all" ([[Daniel 4:12]], [[Daniel 4:21]]).
* `{{H6074}}` **ʻŏphîy** (a twig; bough, foliage; leaves): This term is consistently paired with `{{H4}}`, highlighting the complete vegetative aspect of the tree, from its leaves to its fruit ([[Daniel 4:12]], [[Daniel 4:14]], [[Daniel 4:21]]). The destruction of the tree involves both its leaves and fruit being scattered.
### Theological Significance
The usage of `{{H4}}` within the narrative of Daniel's dream carries specific theological weight, entirely derived from the text:
* **Provision and Sustenance:** The "fruit" of the great tree symbolizes its capacity to provide ample "meat for all" ([[Daniel 4:12]], [[Daniel 4:21]]), extending to "all flesh" [[Daniel 4:12]]. This illustrates a source of universal provision.
* **Symbol of Authority and Dominion:** The tree itself, with its extensive leaves and fruit, under which "beasts" dwell [[Daniel 4:12]], represents a vast dominion or kingdom. The cutting down of the tree and scattering of its fruit [[Daniel 4:14]] signifies the cessation of that dominion and the judgment upon the one who possesses it.
* **Consequence of Judgment:** The removal of the fruit, along with the leaves, is an integral part of the tree's destruction, indicating the loss of its productive capacity and its ability to sustain.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4}}` is a precise Aramaic term for **fruit**, occurring exclusively in Daniel's narrative of the great tree. Its contextual use, paired with terms like "leaves," "meat," and "beasts," underscores its role in depicting a source of abundant provision and expansive dominion. The fate of this fruit, whether providing sustenance or being scattered, is directly tied to the themes of judgment and the removal of authority.
TRV