### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mitstsᵉʻîyrâh**, represented by `{{H4704}}`, is a term for **little**. Derived from a root meaning littleness, it concretely describes something diminutive. This word is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its singular use is in a prophetic context to describe a small beginning.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its only biblical appearance, `{{H4704}}` is used in Daniel's vision to characterize a horn that emerges from one of four other horns. The verse states, "And out of one of them came forth a **little** horn" [[Daniel 8:9]]. The term is immediately contrasted with the horn's subsequent development, as it "waxed exceeding great" [[Daniel 8:9]]. The function of **mitstsᵉʻîyrâh** here is to establish the seemingly insignificant origin of a power that would grow to great prominence.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the passage help frame the meaning of `{{H4704}}`:
* `{{H7161}}` **qeren** (horn): Defined as a horn and, figuratively, power, this is the noun that `{{H4704}}` modifies. In scripture, a horn often represents strength or a ruler, as seen in the phrase "the **horn** of his anointed" [[1 Samuel 2:10]].
* `{{H1431}}` **gâdal** (to be or make large): This word provides a direct contrast to "little" within the same verse, describing how the horn "waxed exceeding **great**" [[Daniel 8:9]]. It highlights a dramatic transformation from a small start to a position of great influence, a concept also seen when God promises to "make thy name **great**" [[Genesis 12:2]].
* `{{H3318}}` **yâtsâʼ** (to go out, bring forth): This verb describes the action of the little horn as it "came **forth**" [[Daniel 8:9]]. It emphasizes the idea of an emergence or beginning, underscoring that this great power had a specific point of origin.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4704}}` is tied entirely to its singular, prophetic context.
* **Humble Origins:** The word establishes that a significant, and often antagonistic, power can arise from a source that appears **little** or of no account [[Daniel 8:9]].
* **Principle of Growth:** It illustrates the theme of development from a small seed to a great entity. The "little horn" is defined by its initial state `{{H4704}}` in order to emphasize the magnitude of its eventual growth to become "exceeding great" `{{H1431}}`.
* **Prophetic Contrast:** The use of **little** serves as a key element of prophetic description, creating a stark contrast between the beginning and the end of the power it describes, which came forth from just "one" `{{H259}}` of the previous powers.
### Summary
In summary, while appearing only once, `{{H4704}}` is not a simple descriptor. It is a cornerstone for understanding the prophetic narrative in Daniel 8. It defines the starting point of a major power as **little**, establishing a crucial theme of a seemingly insignificant origin leading to immense influence. This single word powerfully illustrates the biblical concept that world-shaping forces can emerge from what is first perceived as small.
TRV