(Aramaic) corresponding to נָפַל; {to fall, in a great variety of applications (intransitive or causative, literal or figurative)}; fall (down), have occasion.
Transliteration:nᵉphal
Pronunciation:nef-al'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic verb נְפַל (nᵉphal), Strong's number `{{H5308}}`, directly corresponds to the Hebrew נָפַל (naphal) `{{H5307}}`. Its core meaning is "to fall," but its semantic range is remarkably broad, encompassing both intransitive and causative applications, and extending from the literal to the highly figurative.
Literally, נְפַל can describe a physical collapse, such as a statue falling or a person falling down. Figuratively, its uses are diverse:
* **Overthrow or Collapse:** Signifying the downfall of kingdoms, powers, or structures.
* **Prostration:** To fall down in an act of worship, submission, or supplication.
* **Occurrence/Happening:** To "fall" in the sense of an event taking place or an occasion arising.
* **Attack:** To "fall upon" someone or something, indicating an assault or sudden impact.
* **Removal/Disappearance:** To be removed or to cease to exist.
This versatility allows נְפַל to convey profound theological truths within the Aramaic portions of Scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The occurrences of נְפַל are primarily found in the book of Daniel, where its usage is pivotal to the prophetic narratives.
* **Prophetic Overthrow of Kingdoms:** In Daniel's interpretation of Nebuchadnezzar's dream, נְפַל is repeatedly used to describe the destruction of the great statue, symbolizing the successive "falling" and breaking up of world empires by a divine stone:
* The stone strikes the statue's feet, causing the entire structure to "fall" and be broken in pieces ([[Daniel 2:34]], [[Daniel 2:35]], [[Daniel 2:45]]). This signifies the complete and utter collapse of human authority before divine power.
* The various parts of the statue (iron, clay, bronze, silver, gold) are described as "falling" apart, indicating their inherent weakness and ultimate transience ([[Daniel 2:31]], [[Daniel 2:32]], [[Daniel 2:33]], [[Daniel 2:41]], [[Daniel 2:42]]).
* **Forced Prostration and Worship:** In the narrative of the fiery furnace, נְפַל describes the act of prostrating oneself before the golden image erected by Nebuchadnezzar:
* The decree commands that all people should "fall down and worship" the idol ([[Daniel 3:6]], [[Daniel 3:11]], [[Daniel 3:15]]). Here, "falling" denotes a physical act of homage, signifying submission and allegiance. The refusal of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to "fall down" highlights their unwavering fidelity to Yahweh.
* **Divine Judgment and Removal:** The term also describes the removal of power or the consequence of divine judgment:
* Nebuchadnezzar's kingdom "fell" from him due to his pride ([[Daniel 4:31]]). This signifies a divinely orchestrated removal of authority.
* In Daniel's vision of the four beasts, horns "fall" before the little horn, symbolizing the subjugation or overthrow of kings ([[Daniel 7:20]], [[Daniel 7:24]]).
Across these contexts, נְפַל consistently points to a change in status, often from power to weakness, from standing to collapse, or from independence to submission, frequently at the behest of divine intervention.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most significant related word is its Hebrew counterpart, נָפַל (naphal) `{{H5307}}`. Both verbs share a remarkably similar and extensive semantic range, covering literal falls, the fall of cities or individuals, falling prostrate in worship or defeat, and even the falling of lots. The Aramaic נְפַל thus carries the full weight of this established biblical concept into the Aramaic portions of Scripture.
Key concepts related to נְפַל include:
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The repeated use of "fall" in Daniel's prophetic visions underscores God's absolute control over the course of human history and the destinies of nations.
* **Transience of Earthly Kingdoms:** The "falling" of empires emphasizes their temporary nature in contrast to the eternal kingdom of God.
* **Judgment and Consequence:** Falling often signifies the consequence of human pride, idolatry, or rebellion against God's will.
* **Worship and Submission:** The act of "falling down" distinguishes between genuine, heartfelt worship of God and coerced, idolatrous submission.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of נְפַל in the book of Daniel is profound and multi-faceted:
1. **God's Ultimate Sovereignty:** The most prominent theological implication is the unwavering assertion of Yahweh's supreme authority over all earthly powers. Empires, no matter how vast or formidable, are destined to "fall" according to God's predetermined plan. This theme culminates in the establishment of God's own eternal, unshakeable kingdom ([[Daniel 2:44]]). The "falling" of human kingdoms is not random but a direct result of divine decree, demonstrating that "the Most High is sovereign over the kingdoms of men and gives them to anyone he wishes" ([[Daniel 4:17]]).
2. **The Futility of Human Pride and Idolatry:** The narratives involving נְפַל serve as stark warnings against human arrogance and the worship of false gods. Nebuchadnezzar's "fall" from sanity and power due to his pride ([[Daniel 4:31]]) and the command to "fall down" before the golden image ([[Daniel 3:6]]) highlight the emptiness of human-made glory and the spiritual danger of idolatry.
3. **The Nature of True Worship:** The refusal of Daniel's companions to "fall down" and worship the idol, even at the cost of their lives, elevates the concept of worship beyond mere physical prostration. True worship is an internal disposition of the heart, characterized by unwavering faithfulness and exclusive devotion to God, even when it means defying earthly authorities.
4. **Divine Judgment and Restoration:** While נְפַל often signifies judgment and destruction for rebellious powers, it also implicitly points to the eventual restoration and triumph of God's people. The "falling" of the oppressive empires paves the way for the coming of the Son of Man's eternal dominion ([[Daniel 7:13]], [[Daniel 7:14]]).
### Summary
The Aramaic verb נְפַل (nᵉphal) `{{H5308}}` is a versatile term meaning "to fall," encompassing a wide semantic range from literal collapse to figurative overthrow, prostration, and occurrence. Predominantly found in the book of Daniel, its usage is central to the prophetic visions of collapsing empires and the narratives of worship and divine judgment.
Theologically, נְפַל powerfully underscores God's absolute sovereignty over human history, demonstrating His power to raise up and bring down kingdoms according to His will. It highlights the transience and ultimate futility of human power and pride, contrasting it with the enduring nature of God's eternal kingdom. Furthermore, it distinguishes between coerced, idolatrous submission and the genuine, faithful worship of the true God, even in the face of persecution. The "falling" of earthly powers ultimately serves God's redemptive plan, paving the way for the establishment of His righteous dominion.
TRV