### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **nᵉṭar**, represented by `{{H5202}}`, is a term corresponding to the Hebrew נָטַר, meaning to **retain** or **keep**. This specific word is notably rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the biblical text, making its single instance particularly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H5202}}` is found in the book of Daniel, describing the prophet's personal reaction to a profound and troubling vision. After witnessing the revelation, Daniel states that while his "cogitations much troubled" him and his countenance changed, he "**kept** the matter" in his heart [[Daniel 7:28]]. This act of keeping signifies an internal, deliberate retention of the divine message, holding onto its weight and importance despite the personal distress it caused.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{H5202}}` is enriched by the words used alongside it in its single appearance:
* `{{H7476}}` **raʻyôwn** (cogitation, thought): Defined as a mental conception or grasp, this word describes the troubling **thoughts** that Daniel experienced. It appears in similar contexts where King Nebuchadnezzar's and Belshazzar's **thoughts** trouble them, highlighting deep mental or spiritual distress ([[Daniel 2:29]], [[Daniel 5:6]]).
* `{{H3821}}` **lêb** (heart): This Aramaic word for **heart** refers to the center of feelings, will, and intellect. It is the place where Daniel chose to retain, or **keep**, the matter, indicating that this was a deep, internal, and thoughtful process rather than a simple act of memory [[Daniel 7:28]].
### Theological Significance
The thematic significance of `{{H5202}}`, though based on a single verse, is focused on the stewardship of divine revelation.
* **Guarding Revelation:** To **keep** the matter implies a sense of guarding or preserving something precious and weighty. Daniel's action models a response of careful contemplation when faced with a divine truth that is not yet fully understood.
* **Internal Contemplation:** The word is tied directly to Daniel's inner state. He **kept** the matter in his heart even as his thoughts `{{H7476}}` troubled him, showing that the process of retaining a divine message can be a profound and unsettling internal experience [[Daniel 7:28]].
* **The Weight of Prophecy:** The use of **nᵉṭar** underscores the gravity of the vision. It was not a fleeting thought but a "matter" that had to be actively retained and pondered, signifying the responsibility that comes with receiving prophetic insight.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5202}}` **nᵉṭar** provides a concise but powerful look into the life of a prophet. While appearing only once, its usage in [[Daniel 7:28]] defines a crucial aspect of receiving revelation: the act of deliberately **retaining** and internally guarding a divine message. It illustrates that grappling with God's truth is a profound, internal process that requires careful and personal stewardship.
TRV